Villa Monastero, overlooking the eastern shore of Lake Como, on a stretch that goes from Varenna to Fiumelatte, is one of the most interesting examples of the eclectic architectural style. Further works that were completed between the 19th and the 20th centuries have added multiple functional and decorative elements, without ruining the original structure of the edifice. In fact, Villa Monastero itself is the result of yet earlier restoration efforts applied to the ancient Cistercian monastery of Santa Maria, dating back as far as the year 1208.
The overall plan is defined by the ruins of the ancient church structure, accompanied by only one original decoration, a small frescoed “Pietà” from the late gothic period. The villa’s garden is especially attractive: the terraced grounds compose a sequence of different framings, with recurring elements such as cypress rows, Lebanon cedars and evergreen hedges.
Especially interesting are the exotic arboreal species scattered throughout the garden, evidencing the favourable climate of Varenna: African and American palm trees, agaves, yuccas, oleanders, and a wide variety of citrus trees, as well as several botanical rarities.
The same sense of variety can also be seen in the architectural elements of the park: balustrades, statues, small temples, vases, well curbs and fountains, reflecting baroque, classical and Moorish styles.
Today, Villa Monastero is an internationally renowned Convention Centre, offering universities, enterprises and research centers a unique opportunity to conducting their meetings and seminars in an extremely suggestive setting.