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Villa Pisa
Begun at the end of the 18th century, this villa is one of the most evocative places in the Pisa area. Its design is attributed to architect Alessandro Gherardesca whose innovation is the roof hidden by mock balconies, and the terracotta details repeated throughout the romantic garden. Built for a family abbot, it was the country house for the family until 1975, after which it went through a period of neglect and decline. In 2000 restoration work on the villa began, giving it back its original splendour and using its space and functions to the full, equipping it with complete services. The complex is made up of the villa itself, the private chapel (completed in 1803), the lemon-house, the portico and the annexes. Characterised by decorations, terracotta crests, and balustrade terraces, the villa lies in a “secret garden” whose flower beds and fountains lead to the lemon-house. The annexes have been turned into self-catering and bed and breakfast accommodation and blend into the surrounding park. The park itself is arranged around a spectacular path: plain trees planted in a semi-circular pattern alternating with columns and terracotta vases embrace visitors and lead them along a series of avenues in the wood, where statues, plinths and benches create moments of enjoyment along the path. Point of interest: the villa was chosen by film director Anthony Asquith in 1964 to film some of the scenes for The Yellow Rolls Royce with Alain Delon and Ingrid Bergman. A civil wedding can be held here, followed by a traditional and romantic wedding celebration.
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