Exenz - Villa del Grado

Strolling along the elegant Corso Italia, it is impossible to miss the majestic building considered a prime example of the Liberty style (Italian Art Nouveau). Catania is rightfully proud of such a landmark as Villa del Grado. Built in the early 20th century, this historic site embodies the refinement and artistic exploration of the Art Nouveau era.

Villa del Grado. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Today, this luxurious villa in Italy harmoniously combines the functions of a historical museum and a modern social space. It houses the popular Exenz restaurant and bar, allowing tourists not only to admire the architecture but also to enjoy hospitality within authentic interiors. The building miraculously survived the city's period of mass development, retaining its original appearance and unique character.

The details are of particular value: the wrought-iron elements, the graceful lines of the facade, and the carefully restored interior decor. Also known as Villa Cigno-Cocuzza, the villa stands as a significant witness to the region's economic and cultural peak, attracting history buffs and beauty seekers from around the world.

For those planning to visit this magnificent building or book a table at the venue located here, the following contact information will be useful. You can reach out to the staff by phone or through their official online resources. We recommend checking for private event availability in advance.

Visitors can do more than just admire the facade; they can immerse themselves in an atmosphere of luxury by stopping by the Exenz restaurant and bar. It is a wonderful spot to enjoy a refreshing cocktail or sample local snacks while admiring the original frescoes and masterfully restored floors that transport you back a century.

The surrounding park deserves special attention. Walking among Mediterranean plants, you can find secluded corners with artificial waterfalls nestled among lava blocks. The jewel of the garden is the elegant wrought-iron monastery-style gazebo — a perfect spot for romantic photos.

In addition to gastronomic pleasures, the villa offers cultural leisure. It often hosts craft exhibitions and showcases collections from the Soireve fashion brand. If you are lucky, you might catch one of the social events or wedding receptions that are regularly held within these historic walls.

Its location on one of the city's main arteries makes reaching this landmark simple and convenient. Villa del Grado is situated at Corso Italia, 209, in close proximity to the bustling Piazza Europa. This is one of Catania's most prestigious and architecturally interesting districts, easily accessible from any part of the city.

If you prefer public transport, you can take local bus routes that run along Corso Italia. You can also quickly reach the villa by taxi from the historic center or the nearest metro station. For those who enjoy walking, the stroll from the central squares offers a pleasant introduction to the urban heritage of the early 20th century.

The history of this architectural masterpiece began between 1903 and 1908. Villa del Grado was commissioned by the influential Salvatore Cigno. Prominent architects Agatino Atanasio and Benedetto Caruzzo Puglisi worked on the project, capturing the aesthetic of a thriving Catania in stone.

Over the decades, the building changed hands several times. Originally known as Villa Cigno-Cocuzza, it later passed to the Grado family, whose name became synonymous with the estate. Each era left its mark on the mansion's walls, which for a long time served as a symbol of status and wealth for the local elite.

After a period of decline and abandonment, a new era began for the villa in 2005. A private entrepreneur initiated a massive restoration project that lasted eight years. Craftsmen restored the original frescoes and flooring with surgical precision, striving to preserve every detail of the Liberty style. Thanks to this dedication, the park and halls reopened their doors to the public in 2018.

To leisurely admire the architectural details and soak in the garden's atmosphere, guests typically need about 1–2 hours. This is usually enough time to study the facade, peek into the interior halls, and stroll through the shaded paths amidst Mediterranean greenery.

If you plan to combine your tour with a visit to the local restaurant and bar, you should set aside a bit more time. The evening hours are particularly conducive to staying longer, watching the play of light on the ancient walls to the sound of the artificial waterfall.

As the building operates as a restaurant and hosts private events, the access schedule may vary depending on the season and the day of the week. Villa del Grado often serves as a venue for exclusive events, which may limit entry for general visitors during certain hours.

To ensure your visit goes perfectly, we strongly recommend checking the current opening hours on the official website or contacting the venue directly in advance. This will help you avoid any disappointment if a celebration or private exhibition is scheduled on the grounds.

A stroll around the Corso Italia area allows you to see Catania from different perspectives — from modern entertainment parks to ancient ruins. Its proximity to the sea and cultural centers makes it an excellent starting point for further exploration of the city.

Below are some interesting sites located nearby that are worth including in your itinerary: