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Dina Essawy
Dina Essawy
Sometimes, you need to think like a travel blogger—visit places that will keep you on top of trends, such as Villa Varda Park. It is one of many sightseeing options in Italy that are guaranteed to give you fun and numerous likes on your posts simultaneously. This article will tell you more about Villa Varda and its Park in Brugnera, northeastern Italy.
Highly rated among its visitors, Varda is an Italian villa with English landscaping—such a perfect blend of cultures would be a unique experience indeed. It is not just a go-to retreat for relaxation and exercise; the architecture also adds to the excellent picturesqueness of the place. You will get loads of reactions!
We will tell you what to expect during your visit to the Villa Varda and its park, but first, let’s take a quick look at its historical background!
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Facts about Villa Varda
In Italy’s municipality of Brugnera, a Venetian-style villa was built in the second half of the 15th century. The Mazzoleni family constructed the Villa Varda in 1450 and ensured it appealed to the style of residences of the notables back then. Its white stone architecture and classic style unmistakably reflect the majestic nature of the villa.
The owners of the Villa Varda changed over the years. Still, the most recognised development occurred in the second half of the 19th century, when the well-off family of Carlo Marco Morpurgo bought the estate and followed the tradition of having an English garden around it.
For decades, Villa Varda was neglected until it came under the municipality of Brugnera. Then, the villa was given the kiss of life. It is now immersed in a large green park—quite a scene to share on Instagram or Facebook to make you go viral!
The Origin of the Name “Varda”
“Varda” is the Italian variant of “Warda” in Germany in the Middle Ages. It could be translated into “guard” in English as it was considered a guard post near the Livenza River.
It is believed that a military construction once stood there to guard the area and roads, and that’s why it was given that name. That was before the Mazzoleni family bought the land and built their manor when the “Villa Varda” was used for the place.
A Visit to the Di Villa Varda Park
Stretching over 18 hectares, the park surrounding the Villa Varda is a mini Central Park, except it is in the Italian city of Brugnera. Numerous trees and long trails all over the park mean you can take a nice walk or an energetic jog while enjoying many picturesque sites as you go.
Tall trees line the park, which contains 15 different species of plants. But what is eye-catching are the avenues of lime trees, part of the park’s geometric makeup. Other native trees, such as cedar, pine, yew, hornbeam, and elm, are found in this green-rich park.
The Livenza River Adds to the Picturesque Atmosphere
The large park extends along the Livenza River, which runs through nearly one-third of the gardens. A little inlet around the villa offers a friendly, picturesque atmosphere. Now, you have a touch of greenery and water that add to the spirits of the place, much to your relaxation!
The Orangery for Bookworms
As you stroll around the park, you will come across the orangery. We are not talking about an orange building here, but in the good old days, it was used as a greenhouse to protect plants in winter. Now it is a book centre where you can enjoy the company of a book during your visit. The orangery could be found near the Villa Varda.
A Chapel and a Mausoleum of the Villa Owners
This complex also features a renovated chapel that houses the tomb of Fabio Mazzoleni, the original owner who built the Villa Varda. In its new shape, the chapel is now neo-Gothic in style. This chapel could be reserved for small weddings today, providing a magnificent backdrop to your magical day.
The complex also includes a mausoleum where some Morpurgo family members, the Villa Varda’s later owners until 1943, were laid to rest. It is worth stopping by if you want to learn about the history of the place you are visiting.
The Ice House
This underground chest was used to store food and ice, which was much needed for preservation. This was before 1932 when a tower with a water tank was established to supply two fountains that water the gardens.
A Winery and a Silk Farm
This villa-and-park compound once had a large winery and a silk farm. Today, it is surrounded by buildings used for farming purposes. One of the buildings is dedicated to drying the cocoons of the silkworms.
Snippets from the History of the Villa Varda
The Villa Varda has undergone some architectural restoration, making it a perfect venue for cultural activities. Recently, an exhibition called “Snippets: The History of a Villa” was launched in several west-wing rooms to serve as a museum telling the story of the Villa Varda and the families that lived in it. This event officially kicked off in September 2022.
The exhibition includes 192 items collected by scholar Corrado Bortolin. That collection was handed over to Brugnera Town Council, which, in turn, made it available for display in the permanent exhibition at the Villa Varda. It includes documents, postcards, photos, and furnishing items.
Bortolin, who wanted to tell the story of the families who once owned the villa, wrote a book entitled “Villa Varda from the Mazzoleni family to the Morpurgo family”.
Grab a Bite to Stay Upright!
The Villa Varda Park has this place that caters to your stomach and pocket—the Ristorante Caffè Letterario. The menu is Italian, with main breakfast and lunch dishes served, as well as aperitifs. Do not forget to grab your favourite drink while there!
This restaurant and café have indoor and outdoor seating, so you need not worry about food while visiting the Villa Varda and its park. Ristorante Caffè Letterario is an excellent dining experience in a fantastic location.
Brugnera: Home to the Villa Varda & Park
Brugnera, on the map, is a district of the Province of Pordenone in the autonomous region of Friuli Venezia Giulia in northeastern Italy. With a population of slightly more than 9,000, this town is blessed with a significant share of Italian attractions that are a must-visit at least once in a lifetime. The Villa Varda and its park are among those highlights.
How to Reach Brugnera?
The easiest way to travel to Brugnera is by plane. You can book a flight to Venice Treviso Airport, which is the nearest to Brugena. A train from Venezia Mestre to Sacile is another option that you might find helpful. It is your call!
The Best Time to Visit Brugnera
Hello, summer! The best time for hot-weather activities in Brugnera starts in late June and ends in late August. So, considering visiting the Villa Varda and its park, you should begin planning between these months.
Positive Reviews about the Villa Varda Park
The villa and its park on the outskirts of Brugnera have received positive reviews from previous visitors, who found peace of heart and mind in this place where ancient architecture and beautiful nature meet.
The Villa Varda Park has been described as the right place for couples, families and friends. Even if you visit alone, you will find your perfect retreat from your busy life. What’s better than shedding responsibilities and enjoying quality time in a high-quality place? If everything is positive about Villa Varda Park, why shouldn’t you be?
Do not forget to share your reviews, photos and videos when you visit Villa Varda and its park! Everybody has their particular story and experience to pass on to the next first-time visitors. Remember, not all of us are travel bloggers, but we all seek a perfect place to get some time out from our daily routine.
