The present aspect of the Palace of Colorno - an arcaded polygon - is the result of successive alterations. The Sanseverino family transformed the previous four-sided stronghold into a residence, Ranuccio II Farnese made changes in the later 17th century, and between 1712 and 1727 duke Francesco Farnese commissioned Ferdinando Galli Bibiena to redesign the front parts of the building with four corner towers. Filippo di Borbone renovated the interior furnishing in the style of Louis XV in the later 18th century, and constructed the Ducal Chapel of Saint Liborio.
E.A. Petitot designed both projects, and various artists worked under his supervision, including Fortunato Rusca and Benigno Bossi for the stucco work, Jean Baptiste Boudard for the sculptures, Gaetano Ghidetti and Antonio Bresciani for the paintings.
The typical French garden style was introduced by Farnese family, especially by Francesco, who ordered the construction of the Potager and the perspective telescopes, as was fashionable in Versailles at the time. During the 19th century, Maria Luigia transformed the garden according to her own taste for the English style. Recent work carried out in the park has revived the French garden appearance desired by Francesco Farnese. During the winter season the numerous citrus plants which embellished the garden were taken into the Orangery House, built at the southern entrance of the Palace by Francesco Farnese in the early years of the 18th century.
Emilia-Romagna Film Commission
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Email: filmcom@regione.emilia-romagna.it
