Palazzo Vertemate Franchi is a beautiful Renaissance architectural masterpiece located in Prosto di Piuro, just two kilometers from Chiavenna, in the direction of Sankt Moritz.
Built in the second half of the 16th century by the brothers Guglielmo and Luigi Vertemate Franchi, belonging to one of the richest families who had flourishing commercial activities in Piuro, it is the only building of the properties that was saved from the landslide of 1618 that submerged the town with many of its inhabitants.
The façade is sober and essential, surrounded by airy and functional spaces, such as the Italian garden with the fish pond and the double exedra balustrade.
Here are located the orchard, the vineyard, the chestnut grove, the vegetable garden and a series of rustic buildings essential for the management of the agricultural activities that took place on the estate such as the press and the icebox.
Inside, the walls and vaulted ceilings are richly frescoed and feature large mythological scenes inspired in particular by Ovid's Metamorphoses. Stüe and inlaid ceilings are certainly the wonders of the palace.
Palazzo Vertemate Franchi is open daily from March 22, 2025, after the usual winter closure.
The visit to the Palace is always guided by museum staff and on an hourly basis:
10:00 am, 11:00 am, 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and 4:30 pm every day except Wednesdays (always open in August).
Reservation is strongly recommended.
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