Villa Capra "La Rotonda", Vicenza
On the top of the hill, near Vicenza – the city of Andrea Palladio, there is an artwork called Villa Capra "La Rotonda" or Villa Almerico Capra Valmarana created by a great architect mentioned above. The place is considered to be quite unique and significant due to the impact it caused on the development of architecture in other cities. Many constructions shared some elements with the villa. Many meetings, receptions, feasts, and concerts are held here besides tours as well.
History
When the priest Paolo Almerico retired here decided to build a mansion in Vicenza. The architect named Andrea Palladio took charge of the project, and the construction process began in 1567. Then after 4 years Paolo Almerico finally moved to the newly built house. When he died the villa came into his son’s ownership, then in 1591 it becomes a property of the Capra brothers who let Vincenzo Scamozzi complete the mansion. In 1911 the owners of Villa Rotonda change once again – this time it’s the Valmarana family whose last member passed away in 2011.
The territory around the villa was opened to the public in 1980, visitors were allowed to enter the building in 1986.
Villa’s architectural design
Villa Capra "La Rotonda" is crowned with a central dome that resembles the one in the Pantheon, Rome. Some say it was meant as a reference to Paolo Almerico’s religious title. The construction stands out for its combination of cubic and spherical shapes as there’s a square hall under the dome with stairs on each side.
The walls and ceiling are decorated with frescos, sculptural compositions lend the mansion a unique historical charm. The windows were designed so that the light would spread evenly in every room.
The building is enclosed with a park that boasts plenty of various statues. And, since the villa is set on the hill, it also offers a fascinating view.
How to get
You can reach Villa Rotonda by taking the bus №8 to Via Riviera Berica 70. You can catch it at the Vicenza stop.
Opening hours: Villa Capra "La Rotonda" is open from Tuesday till Sunday from 10:00 till 17:00 (break:12:30–14:30). The place also welcomes its visitors from 10:00 till 18:00 (break: 12:00–15:00) from March 10 to November 10.
Please mind that you are allowed to enter the mansion only on Wednesdays and Saturdays. On other days you can only access the park.
Admission: to check out the villa from the inside you will have to pay 10 euros, to explore the park and enjoy the exteriors – 5 euros.
The information is relevant for June 2018.
