"Villa Balbiano, located on Lake Como, is a historic 16th-century palazzo known for its lush gardens, baroque-era frescos, and ornate gilded interiors. It gained fame as the home of Cardinal Durini in the 18th century, who gathered Italian intellectuals and expanded the property with additional structures. The villa has preserved 17th-century frescos by the Recchi brothers and Agostino Silva, and has been modernized by French interior designer Jacques Garcia. It features antique furniture, crystal chandeliers, marble bathrooms, and jewel-toned velvet furniture, making it a luxurious destination available for rent on Airbnb." - Elise Taylor
