The Villa del Colle del Cardinale was commissioned in 1575 by Cardinal Fulvio della Corgna, nephew of Pope Julius III, who most likely entrusted the project to the renowned Perugian architect Galeazzo Alessi.
Conceived as an elegant summer residence, the estate blends classical taste with productive functions: alongside its reception rooms there were an olive mill, wine cellars, and a small farm.
Fulvio della Corgna, from the 17th century to today
Over the centuries the villa passed to junior branches of the Della Corgna family, then to Umbrian noble families who enriched the interiors with painted wooden ceilings and theatrical grotesque frescoes. In the nineteenth century the park was transformed into an English-style garden with a pond and the “Heron Fountain”, while a refined three-level “winter garden” rose on the south side. After a long period of closure, the complex has returned to splendor thanks to a major restoration project.
The 2023–2025 major restoration: back to life
PNRR funds and open worksites
Between 2023 and 2025 the Villa was the subject of a project financed with €2 million from the PNRR “Parks and Gardens” Fund. The intervention included:
- Restoration of the historical topographies of the park (avenues, terraces, boxwood hedges).
- Consolidation of the “Cardinal’s Bath” and the nymphaeum.
- Restoration of interior painted decorations and the coffered wooden ceiling of the grand hall.
- Removal of architectural barriers and installation of state-of-the-art elevators.
A green and accessible project
New permeable pavements, LED lighting, and drip irrigation fed by rainwater cisterns make the villa a model of cultural sustainability. Removable ramps and mobile lifts now ensure access for visitors with reduced mobility.
What to see today at the Villa del Colle del Cardinale
Frescoed rooms and wooden ceilings
The visit route (about 90 minutes) begins with the grand hall, adorned with a gilded coffered ceiling and mythological scenes executed by the Zuccari workshop. In the side rooms, perspective landscapes, grotesque motifs, and cartouches with humanist mottos recount the patron’s prestige.
The winter garden and the romantic park
Outdoors, the rare three-tier winter garden offers views over the Perugian hills: each level is linked by hidden stairways and hosts potted citrus trees, camellias, and exotic plants. On the opposite side stretches the nineteenth-century park: an avenue of holm oaks leads to the Heron Fountain, continues towards the pond with small artificial islands, and ends in a grove of centuries-old oaks. Perfect for sunset photos or culture-themed picnics.
Practical information to plan your visit
2025 opening hours and tickets
• Regular opening: Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays 10:00–13:00 and 14:00–19:00 (last entry 45 minutes before closing).
• Full ticket: €4 – Reduced: €2.
• Weekday visits by reservation (min. 10 people)
How to get there from Relais Santa Maria degli Ancillotti
Our relais, located between Assisi and Perugia, is about a 35-minute drive (30 km) from the Villa del Colle del Cardinale. Take the SS75 towards Perugia, exit at Colle Umberto and follow the signs for “Villa del Colle del Cardinale – Strada per Sant’Antonio 47”. Free parking is available in the main park square.
Tips to optimize your day
Morning |
Afternoon |
Evening |
“Slow” breakfast at the Relais, departure at 9:30 |
Guided tour of the Villa and stroll in the park |
Return and poolside aperitif with views over the olive groves |
Stop in Perugia city center: coffee on Corso Vannucci |
Perugina chocolate tasting |
Dinner from our summer à-la-carte menu |
Conclusions
The rebirth of the Villa del Colle del Cardinale brings back to light a Renaissance jewel that enriches the cultural offering between Perugia and Assisi. Thanks to recent restorations, Fulvio della Corgna’s residence is ready to welcome visitors passionate about art, historic gardens, and period atmospheres. Choosing **Relais Santa Maria degli Ancillotti** as your base, you can:
• reach the villa in under half an hour,
• enjoy the relaxation of the Umbrian countryside,
• pair the experience with local tastings and walks among the olive trees.
Book now our “Renaissance & Relax” package and experience the magic of a sixteenth-century residence newly restored to its original splendor.
FAQ – Villa del Colle del Cardinale
1. What are the villa’s opening hours?
The villa is open on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 14:00 to 19:00; weekday visits by reservation.
2. How much is the admission ticket?
Full ticket €4; reduced €2. Free entry for under-18s, licensed guides and visitors with disabilities.
3. Is it possible to visit with a guide?
Yes, either via tours organized by the Regional Directorate of Museums of Umbria or with private guides partnered with our Relais.
4. How far is Relais Santa Maria degli Ancillotti from the villa?
About 30 km, roughly 35 minutes by car along the SS75 towards Perugia.