The Grand Tour

Beginning in the late 16th century, it became fashionable for the aristocracy to visit Italy; from Venice to Florence and above all Rome as the culmination of their classical education. Thus the idea of ‘The Grand Tour’ was born; a practice which taught art, architecture and culture to the noblemen of the time, formed by exposure to great Italian masterpieces.

In England, where grand architecture was increasingly seen as an aristocratic pursuit, gentlemen often applied what they had learnt from the villas of Palladio in Veneto, the evocative ruins of Rome and the grand churches in Florence to their own country houses and gardens, purchasing antiquities and paintings whilst in Italy.

The Italy of today still remains a romantic destination. In this book, each reader will be able to travel on a modern-day Grand Tour, staying in the most inspiring and unique properties of the country, absorbing their infinite culture, majestic beauty, unique designs and charming stories. A journey through Italy in its full splendour.