Villa Breda (Villa Giordani formerly Boroni)

A unique property, part farmhouse, part villa

Situated on the outskirts of Cellatica, on the road leading to Gussago, the historic Villa Giordani – formerly known as Villa Boroni – is truly one of a kind amongst the stately homes of the area. It comprises an imposing complex consisting of a large farmhouse, used for agricultural purposes, adjoining a stately villa, highlighted by an imposing turret which lends it a character of absolute originality.

The 18th-century dovecote tower

Although many farmhouses do indeed feature turrets, dovecotes and ‘passerere’, in the case of Cellatica the size of the dovecote tower makes it the dominant and most prominent feature of the entire building and, as such, it is elegantly defined from an architectural point of view. Erected in the mid-18th century to dominate the villa, which may date back to the 16th century, the tower, also known as the ‘Torre della Breda Vecchia’, has an octagonal plan, with walls studded with loopholes and an obelisk-shaped crown, with obelisks also situated at its base.

The 16th-century core and the decorations

Beneath the tower, the 16th-century core of the building is clearly visible; it consists of a rectangular structure featuring a simple portico supported by pillars. The exterior still bears traces of simple decoration in the form of geometric patterns; frescoes are also preserved in the interior rooms, including a staircase painted with vine shoots and cherubs busy harvesting grapes.

The farmhouse and Lombard rural architecture

The rest of the farmhouse is also worth a closer look: a tangible sign of the significant growth and development of rural activities, fostered by the fertile land of Cellatica, the building features a classic two-storey layout, typical of Lombard farmhouses, with a portico of wide arches resting on pillars and an upper space set aside for the hayloft.

Ownership and recent restoration work

Once owned by the Boroni family, the villa subsequently passed to the Congregation of Apostolic Charity and eventually came into the possession of Felice Giordani, who began its restoration.