Overview
A few kilometres from the thermal baths of Abano and Montegrotto you will have the opportunity to discover the fascinating San Pelagio Castle and the Air and Space Museum, housed inside. Also known as Villa Zaborra, from the Zaborra Counts who adapted it as a villa in 1775 and have been the custodians of its magnificence ever since, the castle has been a museum since 1980 and offers spaces and services for events. Inside, you will find a renowned restaurant and no less than 6 conference rooms, while in the surrounding park, a true green jewel, you can admire the main garden, the secret garden, the brolo (old walled-in garden), the hundred-year-old hornbeams, a fishpond and the icehouse. The enchanting English roses and the Roman thermal bath found during the restoration work enrich the charm of the place. Inside the castle of San Pelagio, the Air and Space Museum is an extraordinary testimony to the evolution of human flight. From Leonardo da Vinci's drawings to space exploration, the museum holds a wealth of historical documents and authentic vehicles. Europe's largest aviation collection unfolds in around 300 models of aircraft, hot air balloons and airships, divided by historical periods. The Solar Sail, a prototype spacecraft built by the engineers of the University of Padua, and the images of the Giotto space probe are just some of the wonders on display. The section dedicated to Gabriele D'Annunzio transports visitors into the history of the Serenissima Squadron, led by the famous poet. From San Pelagio Castle, Il Vate ("The Poet") set off on 9 August 1918 on his epic aerial feat over Vienna, launching leaflets expressing his political views. The rooms that D'Annunzio lived in for a year offer a glimpse into his life, with uniforms, personal items and photographic documentation. From Leonardo to D'Annunzio, the Air and Space Museum tells the story of four hundred years of aviation through large halls and the outdoor park. This place is ideal for families who want to spend a day of culture and relaxation in a unique environment.
