Yesterday we traveled on the lake visiting each of the three Borromeo Islands. Resting on Lake Maggiore, the islands came into the ownership of the Borromeo family in the early 16th c. The islands hold two enriching and well-populated villas which now operate as museums (while one of the two is still lightly used as a residence for the Borromeo family). Photographs were not allowed in these museums. They held numerous works of art. Wooden tables inlaid with ivory, glass, and other mosaics were numerous in the museums. Plaster, marble, and faux marble designs are the standard wall and ceiling coverings. Great tapestries, paintings and an extensive marionette collection also fill the house with defining cultural history. The Borromeo family also developed incredible grottos under the villa.
The villa gardens each have their own atmosphere. Isola Bella is famous for its white peacocks and ship like design. The terraced ship like form can be observed from the lake by boat. Isola Madre now has a distinct botanical garden design while Isola dei Pescatori (Island of the fisherman) remains inhabited by apx. 50 people year round. It consists mainly of shops and restaurants.
This was our final day at the Lake Maggiore area. We are now headed off to Villa Carlotta and Villa Serbelloni. We may lack internet for a day or two so until then arrivederci.
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