Villa Trissino, Meledo di Sarego 1550

Villa Trissino was conceived by Andrea Palladio in the 16th century, using stone, brick, and tile. Palladio skillfully integrated locally sourced materials, imbuing the villa with a tangible sense of place. Look closely at the rough-hewn texture of the stonework. Palladio fully understood its inherent weight and strength. The robust columns and walls speak to the labor-intensive processes involved in quarrying, transporting, and assembling these materials. This was a construction site that would have employed many skilled stonemasons, bricklayers, and carpenters. The villa's design also demonstrates the influence of classical architecture, yet it does so without lavish ornamentation. Palladio's architecture celebrates the honest expression of materials and the value of craft traditions. By considering the materials, methods, and cultural context, we can gain a deeper appreciation for Palladio's vision.