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  • margarethull8

Shell House Showcase: Palazzo Borromeo, Italy

Updated: May 18, 2021

Today we are reminiscing about the stunning Palazzo Borromeo which is located on Isola Bella, Lake Maggiore, Italy.


Lake Maggiore is a large lake located on the south side of the Alps, sitting between Italy and Switzerland. The lake is divided between the Italian regions of Piedmont and Lombardy and the Swiss canton of Ticino.


Palazzo Borromeo


Isola Bella (translating to "beautiful island") is one of the three Borromean Islands that call Lake Maggiore home. It is also home to the Baroque palace and elaborate gardens.



The shell motifs of Isola Bella's Baroque interior harmonise with the terraced garden's theatrical statuary and shell architectural features.



The carved shell appears on ceilings, coving, statuary, paintings, furniture and throughout the six highly - embellished grotto rooms. I was amazed by the fanciful beauty of this romantic island retreat, even after my third visit in three days!


The Borromeo family maintain private apartments here, but much of the palace is open to the public and you can have a tour that will leave you in awe.

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