A historic residence in Montale, originally built as a 14th-century fortress, now transformed into a vibrant cultural space hosting exhibitions and events.
Villa Smilea is a historic residence in Montale and one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks — a place that is still vibrant today, where culture becomes an opportunity for gathering and connection. According to tradition, its name derives from the popular Latin expression sex milea (“six miles”), referring to its distance from Pistoia.
The origins of Villa Smilea date back to the second half of the 14th century, when the building was constructed on pre-existing defensive and military structures. The earliest documented records date to 1427, when the property belonged to the Panciatichi family, one of the oldest families in Pistoia. During the 15th century, while still retaining its role as a stronghold, the villa gradually evolved into a noble residence, enriched by an elegant porticoed courtyard.
After undergoing numerous alterations, changes of ownership, and different uses over the centuries, Villa Smilea was acquired by the Municipality of Montale in 2003. A careful restoration project was then undertaken and completed in 2008, returning to the community a place of great historical and cultural significance.
Today, Villa Smilea is a welcoming and dynamic cultural venue where history, art, and contemporary life come together and continue to tell their story.
The interiors
Inside, the villa preserves a valuable collection of painted decorations dating mainly from the 18th century, when it was transformed into a country residence by the Covoni family. Two rooms on the main floor still feature particularly remarkable frescoes, reflecting the taste and elegance of the period.
Walking through the halls, visitors are surrounded by en plein air decorations that create the illusion of opening onto ideal landscapes animated by classical ruins, human figures, and scenes of everyday life. In other rooms, imaginary landscapes and architectural views are framed by refined stucco decorations, inspired by the 18th-century taste for whimsical and theatrical compositions. Created using the mezzo fresco technique, these works produce a striking and evocative scenic effect.
Today, the complex continues to thrive as a cultural space, housing the Biblioteca Comunale Michele Fiesoli and a permanent exhibition dedicated to the sculptor Jorio Vivarelli.
Corridor Through History
In 2023, a group of history enthusiasts coordinated by the Croce d’Oro di Montale O.d.V., together with the Municipal Administration, restored and arranged the cellar spaces of Villa Smilea, creating the exhibition route Corridor Through History.
The exhibition features artifacts and testimonies relating to local history during the World War II, focusing on the years 1940–1945, with the aim of preserving the memory of those events.
Corridor Through History can be visited free of charge from 3 PM to 6 PM on the second Sunday of each month, as well as on April 25, June 2, and September 8, and during selected events hosted at Villa Smilea. Visits for individuals, groups, and schools can also be arranged by reservation, including on public holidays. The exhibition will remain open until 2029.
Info: +39 328 3828924, corridoionellastoria@gmail.com
