THE BELVEDERE

Originally, this architectural gem was located in Baron Franchetti’s city estate, and more specifically in the park of his palace in via Emilia S. Stefano in Reggio Emilia.

The property rose on what was then the city’s outer edge, and beyond it was nothing but the gentle hills and rolling meadows. Thus, when perched atop this striking observatory, Baron Franchetti was able to see “his dear Cavazzone.”
In the 1930s, however, the Baron’s heirs put the property up for sale, and the whole estate was parceled out.

The Belvedere was set on a portion of the park which had been designated for the construction of a house, and the lot’s buyer was eager to begin building his new home. He thus put the unique wrought iron and cast iron structure up for sale, but was ready to scrap it should there have been no buyers.

Thankfully Cavazzone’s new owner, Eugenio Terrachini, came forth and purchased it. He then had it carefully transported and reassembled next to the chalet.
Recent research suggests that the edifice had originally been designed by architect Alessandro Sidoli for a villa in the Valassina valley.

When plans for construction fell through, the design was likely bought by Usine Carré, a Paris-based company which had created several iron/cast iron structures for the Baron in his properties across Italy.

From the moment it was rebuilt on Cavazzone’s grounds, this mesmerizing masterpiece has become the symbol of the estate, as well as a recognizable area landmark.