La Rotonda, designed by Andrea Palladio, is one of the villas that allow visitors to enter and tour the grounds. If you do not want to purchase tickets to view the interior of this occupied villa then it is well worth it to tour the exterior. The old fading stone statues are heart-wrenching and humbling. I could sit next to them for hours while looking at the surrounding villas and fields peppered with poppies.
The interior has mythical themes frescoes and roped-off rooms that you can peak your head into. Unfortunately, I was unable to head up the stairs as this villa is stilled owned and lived in by the same family Palladio built it for in 1550. Photographs also not allowed of the interior.
Couldn’t you imagine getting married at a classic Italian villa like this?
The hike up to La Rotonda is truly magical and free! After all the wine, pasta and gelato I gorged indulged on throughout my journey I really needed the 40 minute walk and it allowed for me to practice my photography.
I mean just look this amazing view of the city of Vicenza!
If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to spend and afternoon in Italy consider a hike. These smaller towns like Vicenza allow you to escape the crowds while also supporting smaller UNESCO heritage sites, and historical sites in general, that need the awareness to survive for hundreds of years more.
Peaking into the other surrounding villas along the hike you’ll find more impeccably tailored gardens, eroding statues, and this particular location was setting up for a wedding. The guests could be heard further down the walking path behind a stone wall. Delicious savoury Italian smells wafted my way and suddenly my mind turned back to food. I was in Italy after all and finding the right Italian meal to help me recover from my walk wouldn’t be a problem.
What a lovely space to kick it for a few days!
I don't remember the name of the estate either but it was beautiful. My Brother-In-Law lives in Vicenza and told me the story of the little people statues. Apparently the family that built the estate way back when had a “little” child and wanted her to feel more comfortable so they commisioned the statues so she would feel at home in her home. Touching and great story. Beautiful pictures, thank you for reminding me of the story!
Gorgeous photos of Vicenza! I will book mark this as a place to must visit while I am living in Italy, thank for posting!! love, Christine
Beautiful! And not so touristy, which I like. Your pictures are beautiful! You're so lucky to have been able to go there. Can't wait to read more of your travel stories!
Are you already in Venice???
Italy is one of my favorite places. Thanks for sharing!
Che bella! I love Vicenza, thanks for such wealth of information and great photos too!!
Ciao and a presto!
E
WOw! How nice it mustve been to take a stroll in Vicenza!!! I definitely long to visit Italy!!! These are amazing pictures. Have a great year at the University this year!
So beautiful! Great photos!