Villino Monza-Maccà Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Travel Guide – Dueville, Italy
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction: Discovering Villino Monza-Maccà’s Legacy
Villino Monza-Maccà is the oldest noble residence in Dueville, Italy, and a striking example of late Venetian Gothic architecture. Situated in the heart of the town, this 15th-century villa not only embodies the heritage of the influential Monza family but also serves as a vibrant cultural hub for the community today. Despite suffering a devastating fire in 1993, the villa was meticulously restored and now houses Dueville’s public library, blending historical preservation with contemporary civic life (EasyVi; Comune di Dueville; CulturaVeneto). This guide provides a detailed overview of Villino Monza-Maccà’s history, architecture, visitor information, and tips for exploring nearby Dueville historical sites.
Table of Contents
- Historical Overview
- Architectural Features and Artistic Significance
- Visitor Information
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Summary and Recommendations
- References
Historical Overview
Origins and Architectural Evolution
Villino Monza-Maccà dates back to the 15th century and stands as the earliest noble residence in Dueville. Built as a country retreat for the Monza family—landowners whose influence shaped the region for centuries—the villa exemplifies the late Gothic style seen in the Veneto. Its main block features two floors plus an attic, with a façade characterized by a central trifora (three-light window with trilobate arches) and flanking single-light windows, reflecting the family’s wealth and status (EasyVi). The surrounding grounds, bounded by original cobblestone and brick walls, echo the estate’s historic privacy and prestige. The villa’s proximity to Villa Monza, now Dueville’s municipal building, further highlights the enduring legacy of the Monza lineage (Comune di Dueville).
Artistic Heritage and the 1993 Fire
The villa was once famed for its exterior frescoes, especially on the southern façade, featuring heraldic emblems like the Monza family crest and medallions depicting famous condottieri such as Gattamelata and Colleoni. These frescoes expressed the Monza family’s noble identity and ideals of leadership and valor. Tragically, the 1993 fire caused severe damage, rendering much of the artwork illegible. However, surviving fragments continue to provide valuable insight into the villa’s artistic significance (CulturaVeneto).
Restoration and Modern Use
After the fire, the Municipality of Dueville undertook an extensive restoration project, prioritizing both structural stability and the conservation of remaining artistic elements. In 2001, Villino Monza-Maccà was reopened as the town’s public library, ensuring its continued role as a center for culture and learning (CulturaVeneto). This adaptive reuse has made the villa a focal point for community events, exhibitions, and educational initiatives.
Architectural Features and Artistic Significance
Exterior Frescoes and Decorative Elements
The most distinctive features of Villino Monza-Maccà include its late Gothic façade, marked by a prominent trifora with trilobate arches—a signature of Venetian architecture. The noble floor (piano nobile) is adorned with four rectangular windows, each featuring faux trilobate arches and painted balustrades, demonstrating illusionistic artistry and the villa’s refined aesthetic (CulturaVeneto). Exterior frescoes, though largely lost, remain visible in fragments, especially the Monza coat of arms and condottieri medallions. These elements reflect the villa’s original function as both a private retreat and a public display of noble status.
The use of local materials like brick and river stone in construction, along with the decorative perimeter wall, are typical of the region and period, blending functional design with visual sophistication.
Interior Spaces
Following restoration, the villa’s interior has been repurposed as a modern library while preserving certain historic features—such as wooden beams and original flooring—where possible. Although most original interior decorations have not survived, the careful integration of contemporary library functions ensures the space remains accessible and relevant for visitors today (CulturaVeneto).
Visitor Information
Visiting Hours
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Check the official Dueville municipal website for current schedules and holiday updates.
Tickets and Entry
- Admission: Free
- Special Events/Gallery Tours: May require advance booking or a nominal fee.
Accessibility
Villino Monza-Maccà is accessible for visitors with limited mobility, with ramps and elevators available for main public areas. For specific needs, contact the library in advance.
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
- Location: Via Rossi, 37, central Dueville
- Parking: Limited free parking nearby
- Public Transport: Regional train and bus connections to Dueville; short walk to the villa
- Nearby Sites:
- Villa Monza (municipal building)
- Villa Da Porto-Pedrotti
- Villino Rossi Da Schio
- Bosco di Dueville nature reserve
- Photography: Allowed in public spaces; avoid flash to protect frescoes
Events and Guided Tours
The villa hosts cultural events, contemporary art exhibitions, and guided tours—especially during local festivals and the Bibliotour Veneto initiative. For up-to-date information, consult the Comune di Dueville Facebook page or the library.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are Villino Monza-Maccà’s opening hours?
A: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Saturday, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM; closed Sundays.
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, entry is free. Special tours or events may require booking.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, especially during festivals and by appointment. Contact the library or municipal office.
Q: Is the villa accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, with ramps and elevators in public areas. Some historic sections may have limited access.
Q: Can I take photos inside the villa?
A: Photography is allowed in public areas, but please avoid using flash.
Q: What else can I visit nearby?
A: Explore Villa Monza, Villa Da Porto-Pedrotti, Villino Rossi Da Schio, and the Bosco di Dueville nature reserve.
Summary and Recommendations
Villino Monza-Maccà is a unique testament to Dueville’s noble history, blending Gothic architectural heritage with modern cultural life. Its preserved façade, surviving frescoes, and adaptive reuse as a library offer a window into the Veneto’s aristocratic past. Visitors can explore the villa and its grounds, attend community events, and discover nearby historical sites—all with free admission and accessibility features for inclusive experiences (EasyVi; CulturaVeneto; Dueville.info; Comune di Dueville). To enhance your visit, check event calendars, download the Audiala app for interactive guides, and explore Dueville’s vibrant cultural scene.
References
- Villino Monza-Maccà, EasyVi, 2025
- Comune di Dueville, Storia del Comune, 2025
- CulturaVeneto, BiblioTour – Dueville VI Villino Monza-Maccà, 2025
- Dueville.info, Le Ville, 2025
- Wikipedia, Dueville, 2025
- Audiala, Dueville Cultural Guide, 2025
- Coke Farina Blog, Villino Monza-Maccà Cultural Role, 2025
- Comune di Dueville Facebook