During your time in Verbania stop by Villa Giulia to see if there are any cultural events taking place. This mid 19th-century building and its garden are used for temporary art exhibitions, concerts, conferences and educational activities.
The villa was built for Bernardino Branca, a pharmacist who, it is claimed, invented the most well-known version of Fernet, a liqueur. It was a private residence for many years before it was transformed into a cultural venue.
Events and exhibitions are organized by the villa's Contemporary Art Research Center (CRAA). Previous art exhibitions have focused on individual artists as well as themes such as landscape paintings, where 19th-century paintings were compared with contemporary works. To find out whether the villa will be hosting any exhibitions or concerts when you are in town, visit the website of Verbania’s tourist office.
While at the villa, appreciate the design of its two main façades. The side facing the street has a Renaissance style while the other features a series of columns and arches. No matter what is going on inside the villa’s impressive rooms, step out onto one of the balconies to enjoy views of the lake, the Borromeo Gulf and alpine mountain peaks.
Go for a stroll through the villa's lakeside garden, which is a public park. Enjoy more of the local scenery by continuing your walk along Verbania’s lake frontage area. As you do so, stop by nearby attractions such as the Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens. It has a stunning collection of plant varieties.
Villa Giulia is open every day except Mondays and Tuesdays and charges an admission fee. Discounts are available for children and senior citizens. The park is open daily and admission is free. Arrive on foot or by taxi or rental car. If you drive, park in the on-site car park for free.
