The group of picturesque islands in the widest part of Lake Maggiore are named after the powerful family, which for over 500 years owned the surrounding area.
Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori
The origins of Borromeo family are in San Miniato near Pisa in Tuscany, jet they were forced to leave, and in 1370 settled in northern Italy.
Soon they became important banquers present on the Visconti court in Milano and later recognized on all the most important European financial markets.
The family’s genealogy tree includes also seven cardinals and two arcbishops of Milan.
Lancillotto Borromeo acquired land on the islands in the Verbano region and started to build the residence on the largest island, Isola Madre was once known as the Isola di San Vittore due to the presence of a chapel dedicated to the saint. The following members of the family were adding their touch to the building, placed originally on the remains of Roman fortress.
The islands witnessed important architects of the era, including Pellegrino Tibaldi, Crivelli, and Filippo Cagnola.
Beginning of 16th century brought the desing of the surrounding garden, which today consists over two thousand of various species, among them noteworty is Kashmir Cypress,
200-year-old Europe’s largest cypress.
The 16th century summer villa hosts the Puppet Theatre with 18th century dols, ‘transforming’ puppets and theatre masks.
Smaller Isola Bella became the main site of Borromeo Family. The Borromeo Palace displays 16th century Flemish tapestries, old furniture and Murano chandeliers.
Members of the family are buried in nearby Mausoleum, and the most of the island occupy terraced gardens, inspired by hanging gardens of Seramide.
The gardens hide some artificial caves and a small amphitheatre in the middle of the island.
The smallest Isola dei Pescatori got its name from the fishing hamlet, and today is the only inhabitated island here. Within the buildings dominates the tower of San Vittorio church with the abside from 11th century.
Borromeo Palace and gardens are open
from 26 Mar 2011 to 23 Oct 2011
everyday from 9.00 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.
There are numerous ferries and boats between the islands and Stresa, that in summer season run every 30 min.
Less frequent boats start from Intra, Pallanza and Baveno.
[ photo courtesy of Night Flier]
