The 17 stone dwarf statues decorating the garden walls are attributed to the workshop of Francesco Uliaco.
Giambattista Tiepolo was commissioned to paint the Palazzina in 1757, completing the work in just four months.
The Foresteria contains scenes of 'chinoiserie' and peasant life, reflecting the distinct artistic style of Giandomenico Tiepolo compared to his father.
The villa is located directly adjacent to the Villa Capra 'La Rotonda' by Andrea Palladio.
The site survived the bombing raids of World War II, which heavily impacted surrounding areas of Vicenza.
Villa Valmarana ai Nani is a historic estate renowned for the extensive 18th-century fresco cycles by Giambattista and Giandomenico Tiepolo. The site consists of the Palazzina, the Foresteria (guesthouse), and an Italian-style garden, all enclosed by 17th-century perimeter walls. The property is famously named after the 17 stone statues of dwarves positioned along the garden walls, which according to local legend, were placed there to console a princess suffering from dwarfism. The frescoes in the Palazzina depict mythological themes, while the Foresteria displays more secular, rustic, and Orientalist subjects. The villa remains a private residence still occupied by the Valmarana family. The complex is situated on the slopes of the San Bastian hill overlooking Vicenza. It serves as a significant example of Veneto villa architecture and 18th-century decorative art.
The elevated garden terrace overlooking the valley, framing the dwarf statues against the backdrop of the Vicenza landscape.
Use the provided audio guide to fully appreciate the complex narrative sequences within the frescoes.
Explore the rose garden and secondary paths to see the view of the valley from the rear of the property.
Check the website for temporary exhibitions, as the villa frequently hosts contemporary art displays alongside its historical collection.
Do not mistake the exterior wall statues for the primary attraction, as the internal frescoes are the villa's main historical contribution.
Closed on Mondays during the off-season; seasonal opening hours vary, and the villa often closes for the winter months.
Photography inside the villa is restricted; maintain a quiet voice in the frescoed halls.
