Villa Fedora is an architectural treasure in central Baveno. Built in 1857, the villa has witnessed some of the tumultuous turns in Baveno’s history throughout the last two centuries. Uncover some of the town’s history as you learn about the villa’s chain of residents. Admire the villa’s grand neoclassical architecture from the surrounding estate, which has been transformed into a popular municipal park.
Take a moment to enjoy the views of the villa amid its sprawling estate. The grand 19th-century building holds a commanding position overlooking the lake. Its colonnades form a series of porticoes on the first and second floors. The building has been meticulously restored to its former grandeur, displaying a period colour scheme of pale yellow and forest green across the façade and window shutters.
The villa was the residence of a string of Baveno townspeople, including the acclaimed musician and composer Umberto Giordano, who named his home Villa Fedora after an opera he had composed in 1898. In 1943, a Jewish family took refuge in the homestead during World War II, but SS officers raided the building and deported the inhabitants. Today, the villa is used as the headquarters for the Chamber of Commerce of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola.
Go for a walk around the villa’s former grounds, which now comprise a spacious English-style park. Stroll along the tree-lined paths or find a shaded area to relax with a picnic. Oak trees, camellias, azaleas and mimosas are among the plant species in the park. Check out the park’s pools and fountains, which are decorated with sculptures. Follow the trails to the park’s lakeside promenade and take in the views of Lake Maggiore. In the summertime, the park hosts a series of open-air concerts and events.
Villa Fedora is located near the Selva Spessa Stream, a short distance north of central Baveno. It is a 7-minute walk from the town’s main railway station. The villa’s interior is not accessible to the public. The public park is open in summer and free to visit.
