Neoclassical Conservation at Villa Pianciani

  Italy

• All Other Areas in Italy: 
Spoleto

Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: 1st Nov - 8th Nov 2008 & 8th Nov - 15th Nov 2008

Description: This a perennial favourite, and has been the core of our work at Villa Pianciani. The villa's restoration continues apace, and on these projects we'll be working in the original designed garden areas immediately surrounding.

Set in the Umbrian hills, surrounded by picturesque olive groves, this holiday is perfect for lovers of the rural idyll and conservation holidays with that extra bit of comfort.

Who we're working with

The association Matilde Pianciani is a small (NGO) cultural association founded by the new generation of Family owners to care of the large historical complex of this stunning Italian villa, the annex and the surrounding park.

Much of the work in the parklands has been carried out in collaboration with BTCV but the complexity and the extent of the project demands a lot of care to research and restore it to its original state.

Where we're working

A few kilometres from the town of Spoleto, this beautiful villa and park is nestled amongst olive groves atop a small hill, affording spectacular views of the rolling Umbrian countryside. An Italian national monument built as a summer residence for Count Alessandro Pianciani in the late 18th century, the Villa Pianciani Delizia is as delightful as its name.

1hr 30min from Rome and 2hrs from Florence. Umbria is one of the few landlocked Italian regions, sometimes referred to as 'Italy's Green Heart'. Dotted with splendid medieval hill towns this region gives you a chance to flee the crowds and escape to the isolated valleys and mountains.

What we'll be doing

We'll be working on a variety of jobs: over the past few years weve assist with the restoration of the landscaped grounds, including ornate steps and an amazing mosaic. We also have moved into the 'secret garden' where we've been working alongside local specialists on the restoration of two sections of wall.

This year we'll be including restoration and repositioning of the ancient iron gates of the garden and well start to restore the parks original path as envisaged in the late 18th century by the neoclassic architect Giuseppe Valadier.

Benefits of our work

Despite all the efforts of the association and the projects already implemented, the vast Villa Pianciani complex, which was also damaged by the earthquake in 1997, is still far from being completely restored.

It's a huge job involving a range of different skills and crafts but this project though will take us a step closer to the preservation of this stunning piece of cultural , architectural and landscape heritage.

Where we'll be staying

The Villa Pianciani Delizia dominates the landscape, with a 360 degree view with Assisi and Spoleto seen in the distance. The entire Villa complex is an Italian National Monument, under the jurisdiction of the Italian State Superintendence of Historical and Fine Art Treasures.

We'll be staying in a beautiful old stone farm cottage within the property. It has been completely renovated and has double, twin and three-bed bedrooms, several bathrooms and showers, a cosy kitchen and living room both with hearths, a large veranda and patio with a marble table and panoramic views of the countryside and a distant Spoleto. The house was originally the home for the family working the olive groves, and still retains the flavour of its original function.

Highlights: This is a place to relax and enjoy the peace of life. Wander the historical park taking in gorgeous scents and views. Explore the rose garden with its two vast iron 'gazebi' (symmetrical canopies in wrought iron). Take a gentle amble in the beautiful surrounding hills, olive groves and mediterranean woods. Or just sit on the verandah with a pile of good books.

Many beautiful historical towns dot the hills and valleys of Umbria: Spoleto, Assisi, Perugia, Norcia, Todi and Deruta. The bus to Spoleto goes from the main road at the bottom of the hill and a trip makes for an excellent day out.

Qualifications: You must be over 18. No previous experience necessary.

Cost in US$: Approx. $1010 (510 GBP)

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 18-80

This Program is open to World Wide Participants.

Participants Travel to Italy Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups of 3+

Application Process Involves:

• Other

BTCV's Mission Statement: BTCV is the UK's largest practical conservation organization. It is a charity which involves over 130,000 people every year in projects to bring about positive environmental change. When BTCV was first established, over 40 years ago, most projects took place in the countryside and on nature reserves. The emphasis was on nature reserves. The emphasis was on improving rural landscapes and protecting habitats for wildlife. However it is not just; Countryside Landscape Wildlife But also Providing opportunities to volunteer Improving towns and cities Building communities Developing skills Helping people into work BTCV's remit has broadened considerably over the last four decades. We have evolved to meet the needs of an ever changing world. As far as conservation work is concerned, BTCV now offers volunteering opportunities in urban as well as rural locations, thus improving our towns and cities as well as the countryside. But beyond this, we also; give support to local groups train people in conservation and life skills run schemes - and take part in government initiatives - to help people secure employment.

Year Founded: 1959