Villa Ciani, Lugano

Villa Ciani is the pretty building with the rose colour that you see when you enter Parco Civico (see next tip). It was built in the 1840s by the brothers Ciani. A palazzo had previously be located here. The brothers were liberal thinkers and politicians, and important characters in the history of the Ticino. Thus, the building played a role in the Italian risorgimento, the unification of Italy.

Villa Ciani became a museum around 1900, when the city of Lugano purchased it from the Ciani family. Today, it houses changing exhibitions and is only open at specific times (check website given below).

Villa Ciani" is situated in the middle of Parco Ciani and also hosts the art-museum of Lugano, and its garden, embellished by an ornament of white flowers. From there one has a nice view on the monumental Monte San Salvatore and the coastline of the city of Lugano.
For all those who like Mediterranean flora and want to take romantic pictures in a quiet environment, we strongly recommend a visit also in autumn and winter!

The villa as you can see it today was remodeled from a palazzio from 1840-43. It houses the city art museum, showing paintings and sculptures from well-known local artists from mid 19th century onwards. Entry fee is CHF 8.00. Wheelchair accessible.

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Built in the 1840's by the Ciani brothers on the ground of former palace, this building now house temproary exhibits.