Isola Bella (Lake Maggiore)
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 26 February 2022
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The lake island of Isola Bella is one of the Borromean Islands of Lake Maggiore, in the Verbano Cusio Ossola Province. Isola Bella forms part of the Comune of Stresa which can be reached via the Lake Maggiore ferry service.
Nearby places of interest include Isola dei Pescatori, Isola Madre, Villa Taranto and Verbania. |
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Isola Bella, or Beautiful Island, is one of the Borromean Islands located on Lake Maggiore in northern Italy. It is known for its magnificent Baroque palace, splendid terraced gardens, and captivating beauty, making it a popular tourist destination.
History: Isola Bella was originally a rocky and uninhabited island until the Borromeo family, a powerful Italian noble family, acquired it in the 17th century. Carlo III Borromeo began transforming the island into an elaborate residence and commissioned the construction of the Palazzo Borromeo. The works continued over the years, and the palace was expanded and embellished with stunning artworks, lavish decorations, and opulent furnishings.
Tourist Information:
History: Isola Bella was originally a rocky and uninhabited island until the Borromeo family, a powerful Italian noble family, acquired it in the 17th century. Carlo III Borromeo began transforming the island into an elaborate residence and commissioned the construction of the Palazzo Borromeo. The works continued over the years, and the palace was expanded and embellished with stunning artworks, lavish decorations, and opulent furnishings.
Tourist Information:
- Access: Isola Bella is easily accessible by boat from the towns of Stresa, Verbania, and Baveno on the western shore of Lake Maggiore. Regular ferry services operate throughout the year, taking visitors to the island.
- Palazzo Borromeo: The Palazzo Borromeo is the main attraction on Isola Bella. The grand Baroque palace showcases richly decorated rooms, magnificent halls, and a vast collection of art and antiques. Visitors can admire the opulent interiors, including the Hall of Love, the Throne Room, and the Music Room.
- Italian Gardens: The highlight of Isola Bella is undoubtedly its elaborate Italian-style gardens, often referred to as the Hanging Gardens. These terraced gardens are a marvel of landscaping, with numerous levels adorned with statues, fountains, and flowerbeds. The gardens boast a wide variety of rare and exotic plants, creating a colorful and enchanting atmosphere.
- Ten Terraces: Isola Bella's gardens are divided into ten terraces, each with its unique design and features. The ten terraces symbolize the ten virtues of a perfect Renaissance ruler, as imagined by Carlo III Borromeo.
- The Unicorn Grotto: One of the most captivating features of the gardens is the Unicorn Grotto, a picturesque cave adorned with shells, pebbles, and coral, and featuring a sculpture of a unicorn—a symbol of purity and nobility.
- The Teatro Massimo: At the highest point of the gardens stands the Teatro Massimo, a small theater that was used for private shows and performances during the Borromeo family's time.
- Lake Views: Isola Bella offers breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas from the terraced gardens and the palace.
- Summer Events: Isola Bella occasionally hosts cultural events and concerts during the summer season, enhancing the island's charm and providing visitors with memorable experiences.
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Location: Lake Maggiore
Comune: Stresa Province: Verbano Cusio Ossola Region: Piedmont Close by: Isola dei Pescatori, Isola Madre, Villa Taranto, Verbania Recommended accommodation: Grand Hotel Des Iles Borromees |
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