Villa Pizzo in Cernobbio on Lake Como

Villa Pizzo: A Botanical Sanctuary of Nobility

Gently resting on the scenic promontory that divides Cernobbio and Moltrasio, Villa Pizzo is a stunning lakeside estate steeped in centuries of history. The property's origins date back to the 15th century when Giovanni Muggiasca, a wealthy merchant from Como, acquired the land. Over the generations, this spectacular estate grew to span from the very edge of the water all the way to the crest of the hills behind it, evolving into one of the most romantic hideaways on Lake Como.

From Refuge to Renaissance Elegance

In the 16th century, the property was transformed by Giovanni Battista Speciano, a lieutenant of the Sforza family, who constructed an elegant villa on the original foundations. By the early 1600s, the Muggiasca family regained ownership. During the devastating plague of 1630, the estate served as a safe haven for the family and their friends. It was during this period of isolation that they designed the villa's signature stone terracing and planted the first olive groves, vineyards, and formal Italian gardens.

An Austrian Duke’s Botanical Paradise

The villa’s destiny took a grand turn in 1830. After being donated to Como’s Sant’Anna Hospital by the last heir, Bishop Giovanni Battista Muggiasca, the estate was auctioned and purchased by Archduke Rainer Joseph of Austria. An expert botanist, the Archduke reimagined the entire landscape. He replaced the vineyards and olive trees with a massive, meticulously manicured Italian garden and a picturesque, winding English landscape park, introducing exotic flora that still thrives today. In 1865, the French noblewoman Elise Musard acquired the villa, continuing to refine its elegant grounds until 1895, when it was sold to Fortunato Volpi. Today, the heirs of the Volpi-Bassani family lovingly preserve the estate. The complex features the elegant manor house, charming outbuildings, and magnificent lakeside gardens adorned with ancient tree-lined pathways, stone bridges, and classical water features.

Planning Your Visit

The magnificent gardens of Villa Pizzo can be explored through exclusive, pre-arranged guided tours from May through September (available for groups of 10 or more).
For reservations and information: Tel. +39 031 511262 | Giardini di Villa Pizzo