Villa Mansi
One of the most elegant villas in the Lucchesia, in Capannori
Villa Mansi in Segromigno, in the municipality of Capannori, is one of the main examples of 17th-century architecture in Lucca, belonging to the wealthy Mansi family who acquired it in the 17th century from the Cenami family.
Its main façade, which was planned by an architect from Urbino – Muzio Oddi– gives a visual effect of non-static solidity. The building actually looks like a compact block, but the façade is livened up by the fact that the central body is slightly set back from the two side parts.
The airy portico on the raised floor, the double flight of stairs and the chromatic contrast between the plaster and the architectural and decorative elements contribute to the movement and lightness of the building. The composed motif of the serliana which characterises the portico continues in the highest part, throughout the double columns and central arcade.
Inside, there are paintings and frescoes by Lucca-based painter Stefano Tofanelli, greatly admired by Elisa Baciocchi, princess of Lucca and sister of Napoleon Bonaparte, dating back to the end of the 18th century and featuring mythological themes in the style of the time that depict the stories of the god Apollo.
In the garden, there are fountains and fishponds with statues by the architect Juvarra, whose original 18th-century garden design has been subsequently changed radically. Today, the property’s botanic gardens are home to over 40 types of trees from all over the world.
