Villa Pusterla

Margherita Pusterla’s desperate flight. That’s how our story of Villa Pusterla begins. Legend claims she sought refuge here in 1340, fleeing her cousin Luchino Visconti. Villa Pusterla, nestled in Mombello, a district of Limbiate, whispers tales of centuries past. It stands as a testament to Lombard architecture, evolving from a 14th-century suburban residence to a grand 18th-century villa. The Pusterla family’s initial creation blossomed under subsequent owners, including the Carcanos and Arconatis. Anna Visconti, a notable figure, elevated Villa Pusterla from summer retreat to permanent residence. She orchestrated significant renovations in the 1580s, employing architect Martino Bassi. His work emphasized symmetry and proportion. He designed the western portico. This was later enclosed to form a grand hall on the ground floor. In 1719, the Crivelli family took ownership, transforming the villa into a political and social hub. Architect Francesco Croce redesigned the villa in the Baroque style, giving it the U-shape we see today. The villa welcomed notable guests, including Ferdinand IV and Napoleon Bonaparte. Napoleon even established his headquarters here in 1797, favoring Villa Pusterla over the Royal Villa of Monza. He penned 216 letters during his stay. The villa also played host to Napoleon’s mother and sisters. Paolina Bonaparte’s wedding to General Leclerc took place in the villa’s oratory. The villa’s journey continued through the 19th and 20th centuries, serving as a psychiatric hospital and later housing the Luigi Castiglioni State Technical Agricultural Institute. Today, Villa Pusterla retains its Baroque and Neoclassical features. The oratory of St. Francis, accessible through underground passages, remains the oldest part of the building. Within these passages, remnants of the original stairs can be found. Inside, frescoes and decorations offer glimpses into the villa’s rich past. Villa Pusterla is more than just a building. It’s a repository of stories, a testament to the passage of time and the enduring power of history.