Overview

Historic complex with an atmospheric Nymphaeum

In the heart of Lainate stands a place where art and history enchant the visitor: it is the Villa Borromeo Visconti Litta, a complex inspired by Tuscan Medici architecture.

Also known as Villa Litta di Lainate, the building was designed around 1585 by Count Pirro I Visconti Borromeo, who, with the collaboration of the best artists of the time, transformed a 14th-century farmstead, used for agricultural production, into a truly unique site.

Striking are the majestic gardens, recently awarded as one of the most beautiful public parks in Italy, which extend along a three-hectare park behind the buildings. Originally used for vegetable gardens and citrus groves, this huge green space has been used since the 16th century as a natural venue for musical and theatrical performances. It houses numerous plant species, including exotic specimens, housed in Art Nouveau-style iron and glass greenhouses.

The biggest attraction of Villa Litta is undoubtedly the Palazzo delle Acque or Nymphaeum. Richly decorated and with spectacular water features, it represents one of the most refined constructions of Renaissance culture in Lombardy. Today it works exactly as it did centuries ago, thanks to sophisticated hydraulic mechanisms governed by skilful fountainmen.