Barchessa Valmarana
On one of the most suggestive and scenic bends in the Brenta stands the architectural complex of Villa Valmarana. The main part of the great country house - dating from the 16th century - was, alas, demolished in the early 20th century to avoid payment of a wealth tax. In 1734 the property originally belonging to the Valier family was purchased by the Valmarana family and two L-shaped barchesse (colonnaded wings) were added, both featuring a monumental Venetian window and imposing colonnades. One wing was used as a grange and the other as guest quarters. The guest quarters, the only part open to the public, is the most interesting: in point of fact, the interior still displays original furnishings and is richly frescoed by Michelangelo Schiavoni (1712-1772) known as 'Chiozzotto'.
