Villa Molin, designed in 1597 by the architect Vincenzo Scamozzi, and commissioned by Nicolo' Molin, is located along the navigable shore of the canal of Battaglia, not far from Abano Terme of Padua. The plan of the structure is perfectly square with a facade on the main building facing the southeast. The principal facade is adorned with elegant hexastyle pronaos and Ionic columns that rise majestically over the bases and two massive arches on the sides that unite the rest of the structure. The remaining sides are an example of sober lines with rectangular openings aside a central serliana. All of the rooms are vaulted in brick. Four barrel-vaulted passageways and elegant shell-shaped portals in stone are connected via a squared arch in the central hall.
Situated slightly elevated from the floor it creates a spectacular effect. The noble floor, with access via the striking XIX century staircase, has the identical floor plan as the ground floor. From the vast windows there is a view of the splendid Italian garden, also designed by Scamozzi, that runs the gamut from the rich greens reminiscent of Cortina, to expanses of open meadows, to the Euganian hills. But the central salon is the true heart of the structure. The large hall, perfectly square, is illuminated from above by four lunettoni candelabras and four rectangular vestibules with vaulted ceilings are connected by grandiose arches. The height is imposing; the ceiling in the salon is nearly triple the height of the vestibules. The decorative motifs that encompass the grand salon are a blend of unexpected simplicity and subtle elegance. The enviable appeal of the villa is the vastness of the fenced area, the famous “Serraglio” which has now become an expansive garden.
Ponte della Cagna, n° 106 - 35142 Padova
Telefono +39 0422 482714 - +39 0422 480874 Fax: +39 0422 480890
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