Villa Thiene

Villa Thiene is located in Quinto Vicentino in the province of Vicenza and is also part of the list of Venetian villas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, since 1996. This simple villa is located not far from the historic center of Vicenza, and many others points of artistic interest, such as Villa Almerico Capra and the Madonna's Sanctuary of Mount Berico, on the Berici Hills. It was built by the architect Andrea Palladio starting from 1542, probably inspired by a project by Giulio Romano, for Marcantonio and Adriano Thiene, rich and cultured representatives of the nobility of the place.

The Thiene were an important and ancient family from the Vicenza area, acquainted with the architect from the very beginning in the area. In fact Marco Thiene, together with Giovan Battista Maganza and Palladio himself were great friends and protégés of Giangiorgio Trissino, who together faced the trip to Rome in 1541, a journey that marked a fundamental turning point in the path of artistic training, and above all aesthetic of the great architect . Thanks also to the attendance of the young Thiene, who was a guest in Rome, the trip turned into an excellent opportunity to get to know aristocrats and cardinals, from whom he learned to confront himself and with time, of that world, he would seek his wealthy patrons.

After Marco's death in 1552, who did not break the architect's ties with the Thiene family, who at the time of the need to build a new palace in the center of Vicenza and a villa in the countryside, turned to old friend Palladio. Although the family has grown well over the years thanks to the silk trade, the Thiene made the longest step of the leg, and were unable to bear the costs of both buildings, equally magnificent and expensive.

To save face, Ottavio, Marcantonio's successor, committed himself to finishing the city palace, sacrificing the country villa. After the latter's marriage to Laura Bojardo in 1554, which allowed him to join the title of Marquis of Scandiano, he retired to the new fiefdoms. The consequence was that the work on Villa Thiene was never completed, thus leaving behind an almost anonymous block.

◊ THE VICENZA PROVINCE ◊

It is one of the most industrialized and richest areas in Italy but, at the same time, still maintains many green and wild areas. You’ll beamazed by the charm of this city thanks to its Palladian villas, sumptuous palaces, the great green valleys that run throughout the territory, such as the Valsugana, and the great enchanted woods of the Seven Municipalities Plateau. Do not miss the typical towns of Vicenza, set in the territory as precious diamonds, which preserve works and typical products of the highest prestige. This province, famous for the nicknames about cats, will surprise you day by day for its artistic beauties scattered throughout the territory. Plan your holidays in the province of Vicenza, our tips and suggestive photographs will help you to take the right path for your trip.

◊ SPECIAL CATEGORIES ◊

The Veneto Region, nestled in the north-east of Italy, is a mix of history and traditions and, all of it, is enriched by the liveliness of its inhabitants and by a wide range of typical products all to be savored. From the highest peaks of the Dolomites, he embraces and welcomes each visitor with brotherly warmth, accommodating him among the many lounges of his cities of art, giving him unforgettable emotions. Turning between the pages of this site, you can organize your next holidays in the Veneto region and thanks to the many photos published, everything will be very simple.