The Genius of Palladio in the Veneto
The charming town of Vicenza is indelibly linked with the architecture of Palladio.
We can admire the splendid palaces and civic buildings of this extraordinarily gifted and versatile architect in the town, before venturing into the countryside where we will be entertained by the owners of the finest of his villas.
These villas, so full of variety and interest, have exerted an enormous influence on the history of British and American architecture. Many of the greatest names in Venetian painting hailed from the Veneto, and these villas are filled with frescoes by Veronese and Tiepolo. Our garden visits will include Villa Valsanzibio and Villa Fracanzan Piovene with its delightful walled orchard and vegetable garden.
One highlight of the tour will be an evening drinks party at the famous Villa Rotonda and we end with dinner at the Villa Valmarana, sumptuously frescoed by the Tiepolo family.
Hotel: We will spend the first three nights in Lecce at the Patria Palace Hotel, a comfortable hotel in an elegant palace in the heart of Baroque Lecce. The following three nights will be spent at the luxurious Masseria Torre Coccaro near Fasano. This romantic masseria, surrounded by olive groves, has been exquisitely restored and has a charming terrace restaurant.
Lecturer: Robin Lane Fox
Tour Leader: Jane Rae