Italy
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Lake Como Villas: Discovering Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi in Varenna
On the eastern shore of Lake Como lies the charming village of Varenna, home to two of the most enchanting historic villas on the lake: Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi. Nestled between lush gardens and breathtaking views, these villas are the perfect destination for those seeking beauty, tranquility, and a touch of history. Villa Monastero: From Monastery to Villa Originally a Cistercian monastery in the 12th century, Villa Monastero was later transformed into a noble residence. Today, it houses a museum and a congress center, but it is the botanical garden that draws visitors from around the world. The garden stretches along the lakeshore for almost 2 kilometers, offering a…
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Torno: A Charming Village on Como Lake
Torno is a small village on Lake Como, far from the most well-trodden tourist paths. Unlike Bellagio or Tremezzo, it offers a laid-back and authentic atmosphere. The village square overlooks the tiny harbor, lined with local cafés and shops. Torno is compact, making it easy to explore and enjoy its beauty in just one day. To me, Torno is a peaceful haven. I’ve grown to appreciate its people, the chatter of a small community, the warm evening light as the sun slips behind the mountain, the sparkle of the waves, and the breeze that occasionally makes you feel like you’re by the sea. The emotions this place evokes can only…
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Villa Pliniana: Mysteries and Legends on Como Lake
Villa Pliniana is one of Lake Como’s most enigmatic and fascinating residences. Nestled in a secluded inlet near Torno, it is surrounded by dense woods and steep cliffs, making it accessible only by boat or a narrow road. Its isolation has fueled centuries of legends, romantic tales, and ghost stories. A Villa Born from a Spring The villa takes its name from the famous intermittent spring enclosed within its courtyard, described in the first century A.D. by Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger. The spring’s flow mysteriously ebbs and flows several times a day, a phenomenon that has intrigued scientists and poets alike. Even Leonardo da Vinci studied it…
