Palazzo Vertemate in Prosto

Palazzo Vertemate Franchi is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating Lombard villas of the fifteen hundreds. The elegant and restrained lines of the exterior give no hint of the magnificent interiors: a sequence of completely frescoed halls and salons, with richly decorated wooden walls and ceilings.

Erected by a pair of brothers who were in business together, it stands alone at the northern edge of Prosto. Although it was intended as a country house, it was designed and realized without sparing any expense. This is evidenced by the halls of Jupiter and Mercury, the statue of Juno and the hall of Perseus, which feature a multitude of frescoed vaults and carved wooden ceilings, no two alike. In walking through the rooms, the visitor is struck by the evocative atmosphere of bygone days.

Finally, the palazzo also boasts an ample vineyard, an orchard dominated by a monumental ivy vine, a vegetable garden, a copse of chestnut trees and a charming Italian style formal garden, with a fishpond in local stone.