Villa Melzi D'Eril by starship
One of the famous villas in Bellagio is the beautiful Villa Melzi D'eril. The villa was built in the early 1800's for Duke Francesco Melzi D'Eril, a friend and associate of Napoleon Bonaparte. (The villa is today called the Villa Gallarati Scotti today because it is owned by Count Gallarati Scotti.) Designed by Albertolli, the famous villa houses works of art by Canova. The views from the villa and grounds of Villa Melzi are breathtaking.The magnificent grounds, often shown with a blue-cupola turret on the lakefront, is open for touring as is a neo-classical chapel. Unfortunately, the villa itself, just as the Villa Serbelloni, is not open for tours.
The gardens include many beautiful views and diverse sections such as the Japanese Garden and sections devoted to Egyptian and classical sculpture. You can make visiting the Villa Melzi part of a day excursion to Bellagio. If taking the ferry to Bellagio, head right along the promenade away from the center of Bellagio. The best time to visit is of course in the spring when flowers and shrubs are blooming!
