Photography by Francesco Arena
An immense and breath-taking interweaving of leaves, plants and bushes. The natural world unfolds here in an infinite variety, with an Italian garden that surrounds the sober architecture of Villa Carlotta, and botanical gardens that are home to ancient camellias, cedars, centuries-old sequoias, plane trees and trees of exotic origin.
It is a treasury that has been amassed and recreated over centuries, overlooking a natural hollow between the lake and the mountains. The spring flowerings of rhododendrons and azaleas are quite amazing.
“To conserve and expertly develop the possibilities of the historical, artistic and botanical heritage of Villa Carlotta”, is the mission of those who make this enchanting place a living space open to the public. Over three hundred years of history in a dialogue between art and nature, all set in a fascinating landscape. A century ago the Villa Carlotta authority was formed, with a specific cultural and economic role in the area, and a programme of high quality exhibitions, concerts, ballets and publications.