Villa Balbiano (Balbiano) is located on the western shore of Lake Como and is one of the most famous and largest private villas on the lake. It is a complex that includes an elegant mansion with 17th‑century frescoes, furnished with works of art and antique furniture, and a well‑maintained garden overlooking the lake with its own dock.
For centuries, the villa has attracted the finest minds of its time; it was owned and frequented by the crème de la crème of society. Today, it hosts private events and wedding ceremonies. It is Villa Balbiano that we see in “The House of Gucci” as the residence of the patriarch of the Aldo Gucci family.
Villa Balbiano: A Bit of History
The earliest historical references to Balbiano appear in a document dated 941 AD. The villa’s elegant appearance began to take shape in the 16th century when Cardinal Tommaso Gallio commissioned the reconstruction of the mansion from the architect and painter Pellegrino Tibaldi. Over the centuries, its owners – including members of the clergy and aristocratic families – changed, yet each one sought to leave their mark through improvements.
At the end of the 18th century, the villa was purchased by Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini – a papal nuncio, patron, and collector. He also acquired a nearby villa, naming it Balbianello due to its smaller size.
The cardinal reconstructed the mansion and expanded the garden, which then featured charming statues and fountains. He also relocated his extensive library and art collections to this serene, idyllic spot. The villa became popular among artists, writers, and members of the aristocracy, who were drawn by its location and refined architecture. Banquets, dancing evenings, and sophisticated literary gatherings followed one after another.
In the following years, the villa was owned by German entrepreneurs. In the 20th century, after World War II, the mansion was restored and the garden was enriched with new trees. In 2011, another restoration was entrusted to the famous French architect and interior designer Jacques Garcia, who not only restored the villa’s former splendor but carried out a large‑scale historical restoration using materials, decorative objects, and furniture from bygone eras.
Location and Grounds
Villa Balbiano is situated on the western shore of Lake Como in the commune of Ossuccio. Adjacent to it is another famous villa – Balbianello. The journey here is an event in itself, as the road with its postcard‑perfect views of Lake Como is incredibly picturesque.
At the entrance, there is a pond with water lilies, surrounded by blooming blue irises. A luxurious alley leading to the mansion is lined with boxwood hedges and cypress trees.
The villa’s facade is elegant and understated, without ornate details or garish colors. Its historical interiors are tastefully adorned with centuries‑old furniture and artworks acquired at Sotheby’s and Christie’s auctions. The walls are adorned with impressive Baroque frescoes painted by the brothers Recki and Agostino Silva.
From the villa, one can enjoy views of Lake Como and the island of Comacina—a true feast for the eyes.
Villa Balbiano in “The House of Gucci”
In 2021, Villa Balbiano became part of Gucci. On screen, the villa—with its serene atmosphere and idyllic views of Lake Como—served as an excellent backdrop for the intrigues and passions simmering within one of the most famous families in the fashion world.
Villa Balbiano appears on screen as the residence of Aldo Gucci (portrayed by the incomparable Al Pacino) – the eldest son of the founder, Guccio Gucci. With its picturesque views, the villa creates a fitting backdrop for Aldo’s birthday celebration, while the tranquil surface of Lake Como and the austere lines of the mansion underscore the passions burning in the hearts of this renowned family.
A still from the film “The House of Gucci”
Wedding Ceremony at Villa Balbiano
Villa Balbiano is one of the most famous venues for wedding ceremonies and private events on Lake Como.
A symbolic ceremony can be organized right on the lakeshore, with an aperitif and guest reception held in the garden, by the pool, or in the mansion. The outdoor area is suitable for groups of up to 200 guests, while the mansion can accommodate up to 60 guests.
Villa Balbiano features 6 luxurious suites, each individually designed by Jacques Garcia, along with additional rooms that can accommodate up to 30 guests in total. The property boasts two swimming pools – an indoor one within the building and an outdoor one in the garden.
Special attention should be paid to its private dock: couples can arrive at the villa by boat or embark on a photoshoot on the lake immediately after the ceremony. The villa can be rented for a wedding with or without accommodation, with a minimum stay of 2 nights.
The rental cost for the villa for a ceremony for two is 15,000 euros (up to 5 hours), with additional time starting at 3,000 euros per hour.
Having attracted the finest literary minds of past centuries, Villa Balbiano continues to captivate modern visitors with its rich historical heritage, stunning gardens, breathtaking views, and classic interiors perfected in every detail. An ideal backdrop for a truly memorable and special wedding!
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