The Villa Capra detta la Rotonda is one of Vicenza’s many architectural masterpieces by the celebrated Venetian architect Andrea Palladio. Come here to marvel at the villa’s symmetrical design, to gaze in awe at frescoes by great Renaissance artists and to enjoy sweeping views of Vicenza’s picturesque countryside. Palladio designed the 500-year-old villa upon the request of Paolo Almerico, a priest that had returned to Vicenza after retiring from the Vatican.
Approach the villa via a short pathway framed by statues of animals and mythological characters. Stand at the steps to the main entrance and look up at the dominant portico, complete with Ionic columns. Stroll around the building to admire its stately symmetry. Look for the statues of deities that guard the porticos. Gaze up at the central rotunda, from which the building takes its name.
Inside, the villa features a fascinating collection of art. See paintings by the father and son Italian artists Giovanni Battista Maganza and Alessandro Maganza. Check out a fresco that portrays the life of Paolo Almerico. The religious themes and opulent ornamentation are reminiscent of the interior of a cathedral.
Find a quiet spot amid the well-maintained gardens and enjoy the uninterrupted views. Look out over hills, meadows and woodland. The rooftops of Vicenza’s Old Town can be seen in the distance.
Villa Capra detta la Rotunda is less than a 10-minute drive from Piazza dei Signori, Vicenza’s main square in the city’s centre. Limited parking is available for free on the street that leads to the villa. You can also park at a nearby gas station and make the 10-minute walk to the villa. A public bus station can be found nearby. If you are feeling energetic, enjoy a pleasant 30-minute walk to the villa from Vicenza’s city centre.
The villa is open from Tuesday to Sunday between March and November. Admission to the villa’s interior is on Wednesday and Sunday only. Separate admission fees are charged for the villa’s grounds and interior. Find full details plus information on special opening hours and cultural events on the villa’s official website.
