Gargnano, the lemon house of the Little Versailles shines again thanks to restoration works funded by the owners of Palazzo Bettoni. After a long period of neglect and decay, the historic citrus greenhouse, located on the northern side of the 18th-century residence, will reopen to the public on March 24, 2025. This initiative is part of the rediscovery and enhancement of the centuries-old citrus greenhouses of the upper Garda region, which were damaged by the Vaia storm. Thanks to a regional grant supported by European funds for rural building, it has been possible to secure financing that covers about 75% of the total costs, amounting to 200,000 euros.
The revitalization works began in the autumn and will be completed in time for the “Citrus Gardens” event, scheduled for April 12 and 13, dedicated to promoting historic lemon houses. The cultivation of citrus fruits along the Brescia side of the upper Garda has deep roots dating back to the 15th century and has significantly shaped the local landscape. The lemon house will be open not only during the event but also for guided tours of the monumental garden of the villa, which is part of the Italian Register of Historic Residences of Excellence.
