Situated in Cernobbio, a province of Como, Italy, is Villa d’Este, a hotel that has entertained noble men and women, scholars, artists, writers and financiers. Originally built as a convent in the 15th century, Villa d’Este has changed over the centuries to reflect its owners. The nymphaeum (shown) stands the test of time as an example of Baroque style with its multicolored pebble mosaic, sculpture depicting Hercules and Lichas, box hedges, flower beds, cypresses, and laurel. The nymphaeum represents an ode to nature in an intricate and artful way.
PHOTO: DARIO FUSARO FROM ITALIAN GARDENS OF LAKE COMO, COURTESY RIZZOLI
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