Story of the Villa

The Draneht-Zervudachi Villa, better known as 'Villa Pascià', stands as one of the most expansive and majestic properties overlooking Lake Maggiore. This imposing structure is named after its original illustrious owner, the Greek Draneht Pasha, who imparted a distinctive Moorish style to the estate. The villa is renowned for its exceptional gardens, hosting a variety of tree species including beeches, oaks, conifers, magnolias, palms, camphor trees, tulip trees, azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias, making it a landmark for enthusiasts of greenery and landscape architecture

In 1872, Paul Draneht, a figure of significant historical and cultural importance, acquired the villa. With a distinguished career serving the Khedive of Egypt, Draneht made an indelible mark in history, participating in the negotiations for the opening of the Suez Canal and serving as the superintendent of the Egyptian Opera House. It was he who commissioned the opera "Aida" from the renowned Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi. Later, Draneht undertook the renovation of the villa, entrusting the project to famed Parisian designers. These professionals, already involved in the set and prop design of "Aida", skillfully blended European and Oriental styles.

Paul Draneht, his wife Adele and little Despina

In 1877, the Draneht family welcomed the birth of Despina, a figure destined to play a significant role in the legacy of the villa. In 1894, coinciding with the final years of her father's life, Despina joined her fate with that of Emmanuel Zervudachi, an influential businessman of Greek origin.

Under the management of Despina and Zervudachi, the Oggebbio villa underwent its current transformation, becoming known not only as a luxurious place of stay but also as a meeting point for intellectuals, artists, and key figures in the cultural world.

Despina painted by Giovanni Boldini

* Sourced from book "Villa del Pascià - Storia di una residenza leggendaria" written by Massimiliano Crenona