Villa Necchi Campiglio

Amidst the bustling heart of Milan, an architectural gem awaits: Villa Necchi Campiglio. Built between 1932 and 1935, Villa Necchi Campiglio stands as a testament to the elegant lifestyle of the Necchi Campiglio family. The sisters, Gigina and Nedda Necchi, along with Gigina’s husband, Angelo Campiglio, commissioned Piero Portaluppi, a prominent Milanese architect, to create their dream home. This luxurious residence showcases the innovative Rationalist style that was emerging in Milan during the interwar period. The villa boasts not only stunning architecture but also a large private garden, complete with a tennis court and a swimming pool. This pool holds a special distinction: it was the second private pool ever built in Milan, a symbol of the family’s affluence and modern sensibilities. The Necchi sisters were known for their sophisticated tastes and hosted notable guests, including Henry of Hesse, a set designer for the Teatro alla Scala. A special room, known as the Prince’s Room, was dedicated to him. Another distinguished guest was Princess Maria Gabriella of Savoy, a close friend of the Necchi family, who had her own designated chamber within the villa. During World War II, the family sought refuge in their villa in Barasso, Varese, while their Milanese home was requisitioned. It served as the headquarters-residence of Alessandro Pavolini during the Salò Republic era. Later, it was occupied by the British and then housed the Dutch consul. Eventually, the Necchi Campiglio family regained possession of their beloved home. After the passing of Angelo Campiglio in 1984 and the sisters in the 1990s and 2001, the villa was bequeathed to the FAI (Italian Environmental Fund). The sisters, without heirs, desired to preserve their home and share its unique history with the public. Thanks to extensive restorations, Villa Necchi Campiglio opened its doors to visitors in May 2008, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of Milanese elegance and innovation. The villa’s legacy extends beyond its architectural and historical significance. It served as a filming location for Luca Guadagnino’s film “I Am Love” in 2009, and later appeared in Ridley Scott’s “House of Gucci” in 2021. Today, visitors can explore the villa’s opulent interiors, admire its art collection, and stroll through the tranquil gardens, immersing themselves in the fascinating story of the Necchi Campiglio family and their remarkable home.