Villa Borromeo d’Adda, visit to the monumental complex

The Arcore Park in the province of Monza-Brianza is home to the beautiful complex of buildings of the Villa Borromeo d'Adda. The result of a brilliant renovation, made even more pleasant by the nearby presence of the park. 

The elegant façade is completely lost in the greenery, welcoming all curious visitors. Currently, the Villa houses ceremonial rooms and a small museum, which can be visited by tourists. 

For those who decide to spend a holiday in the province of Monza-Brianza, the Villa Borromeo d'Adda is an absolutely unmissable building. 

Its imposing image will remain impressed in your memory and, perhaps, you will feel like celebrating some event on one of the characteristic terraces. 

How to get to Villa Borromeo

As previously indicated, the Villa Borromeo d'Adda is situated within the Park of Arcore, a small province of Lombardy. 

Arcore is conveniently accessible by bus, train and car. A number of car parks are situated in close proximity to the park entrance, offering convenient parking for those arriving by car. 

Upon arrival at the park, simply follow the route towards the villa at your own pace. Given its substantial size, it is impossible to miss the villa. Wayfinding signage is provided throughout the park to direct visitors to the villa. 

The history of the Villa

The construction of the Villa Borromeo D'Adda is attributed to Ferdinando D'Adda, an abbot who lived in the 18th century. The initial appearance of the complex was that of an elegant patrician residence, but it underwent a long series of modifications. The first changes were initiated by Giovanni D'Adda and architect Giuseppe Balzaretto at the beginning of the 19th century. 

The steps and main entrance were partially modified, and the current Vela Chapel was constructed. The latter is a funeral chapel with an imposing appearance, intended to house Maria Isimbardi, the beloved wife of Giovanni D'Adda who died prematurely around the middle of the 19th century.

The couple's son, Emanuele D'Adda, was the last heir to the Villa and was responsible for the significant enlargement of the outdoor park.  Following his demise, the complex was transferred to the ownership of the Borromeo family, who subsequently became known as the 'Borromeo D'Adda' family in 1913. 

The family retained control of the villa until 1980, when responsibility was transferred directly to the Municipality of Ancore. The municipality continues to provide dedicated supervision and maintenance of the property. 

The exterior of the Villa Borromeo D’Adda

In 2018, the municipality initiated a series of renovation projects that impacted a significant portion of the Villa and its foreign gardens.  The aim was to restore the structure to its original beauty, reproducing the elegant image that was originally conferred by the D'Adda family. 

The external style of the villa is frequently described as 'eclectic', reflecting its incorporation of architectural elements characteristic of several renowned villas. The entrance is adorned with wrought iron objects and decorations, which contribute to the building's overall older and more distinctive appearance. 

The Vela Chapel, a funeral chapel dedicated to Maria Isimbardi, features statues of Vincenzo Vela and other fine decorations.  Please note that the villa is only open to the public on a monthly basis, with prior booking required.
The villa's park, redesigned by Emanuele D'Adda in the mid-19th century, occupies approximately 30 hectares of land. It features fountains and artificial streams in some areas, enhancing the visitor experience.