Villa Reale di Marlia, Lucca Travel Guide

Nestled in the heart of the Lucca region, Villa Reale di Marlia stands as one of Italy's most significant historical residences. Its history stretches back to the early Middle Ages when it served as a palace for the Duke of Tuscia. Over the centuries, the estate passed through the hands of noble families who shaped its character.In the 17th century, the Olivieri and Orsetti families modernized the villa and created the Baroque-style gardens, complete with courtyards, pathways, and scenic features like the Green Theatre and Lemon Garden. Elisa Bonaparte, Napoleon's sister, purchased the property in 1806, renaming it Villa Reale and transforming it into a royal residence. She expanded the gardens, incorporating neoclassical elements and connecting the villa to the neighboring Villa del Vescovo.Today, Villa Reale di Marlia offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore its magnificent gardens and royal apartments. The 16-hectare property includes the Villa Reale, the Palazzina dell'Orologio (Clock House), and the Villa del Vescovo. The gardens feature geometrically ordered evergreen shrubs that retain their original 17th-century structure. Highlights include the Green Theatre, one of the oldest in Europe, the Water Theatre with its waterfalls and statues, the Art Deco Spanish Garden, and the Lemon Garden with over 200 citrus plants.The villa also hosts special events, such as picnics at sunset, musical concerts and historical re-enactments.