Villa del Balbianello

In 1919, was purchased by the U.S. General Butler Ames, to whom we owe major renovations aimed at recovering the precious furnishings of Arconatis. On the death of the general, his heirs sold the Balbianello to Guido Monzino, known Milanese businessman, educated collector and avid traveler. The Villa was again restored and converted in part into a private museum where Monzino picked with expertise and attention museological memories of travel, art collections and memorabilia of the famous expeditions he has made, such as the conquest of the North Pole in 1971 and 'Everest in 1973. The October 11, 1988, on the death of Monzino, his last will and testament to the Villa, the furnishings and the beautiful garden of the rise of Lavedo were bequeathed to the FAI, with a dowry that still helps maintenance. A garden with a breathtaking view The true pride and joy of the Villa is the panoramic terraced garden, which is dominated by the elegant loggia. The garden is a bona fide masterpiece, in which every element relates to the lake, its shores and its mesmerising waters.