The Vittoriale degli Italiani in Gardone Riviera

The Vittoriale degli Italiani is a monumental complex located in Gardone Riviera, on the Brescia side shore of Lake Garda.

Built from 1921 at the behest of Gabriele d'Annunzio, with the contribution of architect Gian Carlo Maroni, the Vittoriale includes buildings, streets, squares, an open-air theater, gardens, and waterways. It was constructed to celebrate the "inimitable life" of the poet-soldier and the deeds of the Italians during World War I.

This residence, which was d'Annunzio's home in the last years of his life, is now a museum and a place of memory, attracting around 180,000 visitors annually.

Why is it called "Vittoriale degli Italiani" and what does it mean?

The name "Vittoriale degli Italiani" was chosen by d’Annunzio himself to honor the Italian victories during World War I, in which he actively participated.

The term "Vittoriale" derives from the word "victory" and symbolizes a tribute to the greatness of the Italian nation. D’Annunzio transformed this residence into a monument to the homeland, dedicating it to the Italian people and their history.

What to see at the Vittoriale degli Italiani

The Vittoriale degli Italiani offers a unique experience that blends history, art, and nature, combining the charm of literature with the breathtaking landscape of Lake Garda.

It is a place where art, history, and nature merge in a truly distinctive way, providing a fascinating insight into early 20th-century Italian culture through the eccentric personality and symbolic aesthetic of one of its most controversial and influential figures.

How Many People Can It Accommodate?

The Vittoriale includes several spaces open to the public, including the Amphitheater, which can accommodate approximately 1,500 spectators. The entire complex covers about 9 hectares, offering numerous walking paths and points of interest.

How Long Does It Take to Visit the Vittoriale degli Italiani

A complete visit takes approximately 2-3 hours, but history and literature enthusiasts could spend an entire day exploring the park and museums.

Some of the main attractions within the Vittoriale include:

• The Prioria: d'Annunzio's house-museum, filled with personal objects, books, works of art, and eccentric decorations.
• The Mausoleum: the poet's burial site, located on a panoramic hill where he rests alongside some of his legionnaires from Fiume.
• The Park: a magnificent monumental garden with fountains, sculptures, and scenic pathways.
• The Regia Nave Puglia: a real ship’s hull embedded in the hillside, symbolizing d'Annunzio’s love for the sea.
• The Amphitheater: an open-air theater overlooking the lake, still used today for events and performances.
• The d'Annunzio Eroe Museum: an exhibition of memorabilia related to the poet’s military life.

The Prioria

The Prioria is d'Annunzio’s main residence within the Vittoriale, an obsessively decorated building that creates an almost claustrophobic atmosphere. Every room is filled with works of art, valuable furniture, books, and memorabilia, all arranged according to specific symbolic meanings.

Some of the most significant rooms include:

• The Stanza del Lebbroso, the poet’s main study, named after his reclusive lifestyle.
• The Stanza della Zambracca, his bedroom featuring the famous boat-shaped bed.
• The Sala del Mappamondo, used for receiving guests.
• The Officina, where he kept his immense library. His private collection contains about 33,000 volumes, many of which are rare or personally dedicated. These books are distributed across several rooms in the Prioria, with most located in the Officina.
• The Stanza delle Reliquie, filled with religious objects and personal memorabilia.
• The Sala della Musica, where d'Annunzio listened to concerts and entertained guests.

The rooms are mostly dark, with heavy drapery filtering the light, creating a mysterious and decadent atmosphere.

Every detail, from inscriptions on the walls to decorative objects, was chosen and positioned by d'Annunzio himself to convey specific meanings, turning the house into a sort of three-dimensional book of his life.

Entrance Fees: Tickets and Opening Hours

The ticket price varies depending on the selected itinerary. Generally:

• Full ticket (house, park, and museums): approximately €15-18 (reduced €10-14).
• Park and museums only: approximately €10-12.
• Discounts available for students, seniors (65+), and groups.

Opening hours vary depending on the season, but the Vittoriale is generally open from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with earlier closures in winter at 5:00 PM on weekdays and 5:30 PM on weekends.

The ticket office closes one hour before the official closing time.

When Is Entry Free at the Vittoriale degli Italiani?

Admission is free on special days, such as during the "Week of Culture" or museum-organized events.

Additionally, residents of Gardone Riviera have free access during specific periods.

How to Get to the Vittoriale

The Vittoriale is located in Gardone Riviera (BS) and is easily accessible:

• By car: via the A4 motorway, Brescia Est exit, continuing towards Salò and Gardone Riviera.
• By bus: with routes connecting Brescia and Salò.
• By boat: from the main towns around Lake Garda, stopping at Gardone Riviera.

Where to Park

Near the Vittoriale, there are both paid and free public parking areas:

• Via Dosso parking: just a short walk from the entrance.
• Parking along the Gardesana road: about a 10-minute walk away.

What to Visit Near the Vittoriale degli Italiani

After visiting the Vittoriale, you can explore other nearby attractions:

• The Andrè Heller Botanical Garden: a magnificent park with exotic plants and artistic installations.
• Salò: featuring its picturesque lakeside promenade and the Duomo.
• Isola del Garda: accessible by boat tours, available by reservation (both group and private boat tours).
• Rocca di Manerba del Garda: fascinating archaeological and natural site with panoramic views of Lake Garda.
• Sirmione, including the Grotte di Catullo and the thermal baths (about 30 km from Gardone).

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Credits: all images are taken from the Official Website (except for the cover image).