This book is one of the most interesting I have ever read on the subject. It is filled with historical works of art, frescos, murals, architecture. The photographs are stunning, all large full page spreads in color.

This coffee table book is a monumental work, which covers 80 of the most important villas in Veneto, the hinterland of Venice. These Villas were built by wealthy Venetian merchants about 500 years ago for the time when the summer heat in Venice made Italian merchants and gentlemen long for the fresh air of the country. For the ones in the know: many Villas were built by Andrea Palladio, the master architect from Vicenca. The photographer of the book, Paolo Marton, took 2 whole years to take the very best pictures of the different palaces, villas, country houses and mansions, and his effort has been worthwhile. The text gives readers the right background about how these beautiful residences came into being and why they are renovated and lived in by families such as the Benettons.

One of the best books I own! Incredible survey of the villas in their historical, stylistic and architectural context. Interesting relationships with literature, philosophical thought, artists and identities of the day are discussed. The best point is the comprehensive internal shots of each villa - instead of the purely external profiles you normally see - particularly of the interiors of the Villa Capra which I have never seen before. Beautifull format and excellent visuals.