Stories from Lake Como
Villa Balbiano: frescoes, gardens, and House of Gucci
Villa Balbiano stands in Ossuccio, on the western shore. It should not be confused with Villa del Balbianello: they are two distinct properties, with different histories and architectures.
A monumental residence
The property is documented in the sixteenth century and passed to Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio. The design is attributed to Pellegrino Tibaldi; the interiors preserve seventeenth-century frescoes by the Recchi brothers and stuccoes by Agostino Silva.
After periods of transformation and restoration, the villa retains a vast garden overlooking the lake and decorated rooms. Today it is a private property primarily used for exclusive stays and events.
The set of House of Gucci
Ridley Scott chose Villa Balbiano for House of Gucci, released in 2021. In the film, it represents the sumptuous lakeside residence of the Gucci family, with scenes featuring Lady Gaga and Al Pacino.
The film production has made the villa even more recognizable, but access is not like that of a public museum.
