Overview
The so-called Quartiere Coppedè, a complex of palaces and small villas in the Trieste district, is recognizable at a glance for its magnificence. It is an artistic-architectural experiment that combines Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Gothic and Medieval styles with references to Greek and Roman art. It owes its name to the architect Gino Coppedè, who built it between 1915 and 1927.
A large, richly decorated arch, hung with a wrought-iron chandelier on Via Tagliamento, marks the entrance to the buildings facing Piazza Mincio. At the center of the square is the Fontana delle Rane (Fountain of Frogs), probably inspired by the one of turtles created by Bernini in the Jewish ghetto. The fountain is famous for the Beatles' bath after one of their concerts at the Piper Club.
Several noteworthy buildings overlook the square, such as the Villino delle Fate, consisting of three asymmetrical buildings whose paintings pay homage to the cities of Florence, Rome and Venice, and the Palazzina del Ragno covered with dragons, monsters and a knight with the inscription Labor, in a tribute to work. The Coppedè District was chosen as a film set by director Dario Argento for two of his most famous films "Inferno" and "The Bird with the Crystal Plumage" and by other directors as well.
