Vittoriale degli Italiani
Lombardia
The Vittoriale degli Italiani is a sprawling hillside estate located in Gardone Riviera, Lombardy, overlooking the picturesque Lake Garda. It served as the residence of the renowned Italian poet and novelist Gabriele D'Annunzio from 1922 until his death in 1938. The estate encompasses the Prioria, D'Annunzio's opulent home filled with memorabilia and symbolic rooms, an amphitheatre inspired by classical models, the circular mausoleum containing the poet's remains, and the preserved bow of the protected cruiser Puglia embedded in the hillside. The grounds also include a boathouse housing the MAS vessel used by D'Annunzio during World War I. The Vittoriale is a unique fusion of architecture, history, and symbolism reflecting D'Annunzio's life and Italy's wartime exploits. Its gardens are part of the Grandi Giardini Italiani association, and the amphitheatre remains an active cultural venue. The estate showcases D'Annunzio's eclectic tastes, including relics like the distorted steering wheel of the Miss England II speedboat and rooms with inscriptions reflecting his views on spirituality and politics. The site is both a monument to a controversial figure and a vibrant cultural landmark attracting thousands of visitors annually.
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Astuce: For the best experience, visit during spring or early summer when the gardens are in full bloom and outdoor performances are held in the amphitheatre. It is recommended to book tickets in advance through the official website to avoid queues and to check the event calendar for concerts and cultural events. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Allow ample time to explore the Prioria, gardens, and museum exhibits thoroughly.
Faits intéressants
- •The bow of the protected cruiser Puglia is embedded into the hillside woods behind the estate, an unusual and striking monument.
- •The distorted steering wheel of the Miss England II speedboat, involved in a fatal world speed record crash, is displayed as a 'relic of the religion of courage'.
- •The amphitheatre was inspired by classical Roman theatres, with its architect visiting Pompeii for design ideas.
- •Benito Mussolini was sent to the 'unwelcome guests' waiting room during his 1925 visit, where a pointed inscription was placed above the mirror.
- •The estate includes a boathouse containing the MAS vessel used by D'Annunzio in a daring naval raid during World War I known as the Beffa di Buccari.
Histoire
Originally the Villa Cargnacco, the estate was confiscated from German art historian Henry Thode and rented by Gabriele D'Annunzio in 1921.
Under architect Giancarlo Maroni, the villa was extensively expanded and transformed between 1921 and 1938 to reflect D'Annunzio's life and ideals.
Significant additions include the amphitheatre constructed from 1931, the installation of the cruiser Puglia's bow in 1925, and the MAS naval vessel.
Although the mausoleum was designed shortly after D'Annunzio's death in 1938, it was only built in 1955, with the poet's remains transferred there in 1963.
The estate was supported by Fascist government funds aiming to keep D'Annunzio away from political life in Rome, despite his disagreements with them.
Guide du lieu
The Prioria1921-1938
D'Annunzio's residence, richly decorated and filled with personal memorabilia, including two waiting rooms for welcome and unwelcome guests, a leper's room where his wake was held, and the Relic room housing religious statues symbolizing universal spirituality.
The Amphitheatre (Parlaggio)1931-1938 (completed 2020)
A classical-style open-air theatre designed by Giancarlo Maroni between 1931 and 1938, inspired by Pompeii's theatre. It offers panoramic views of Lake Garda and hosts cultural events and performances.
The Mausoleum1955
A circular structure at the estate’s highest point, housing the remains of D'Annunzio and his men who died during the Fiume period. It was built in 1955, years after the poet's death.
Protected Cruiser Puglia1925 (installation)
The bow section of this naval cruiser is embedded into the hillside woods behind the estate, serving as a monumental reminder of Italy’s naval history and D'Annunzio's wartime exploits.
Contact
Téléphone: 0365 296511
