The location of Villa Merlo Dragoni is one of the locations that I have most appreciated during my experience as a wedding photographer in Friuli Venezia Giulia. I have collected all the most important information, to allow you to get to know the history, the structure and answer the most frequently asked questions about the location. Enjoy the reading!

Villa Merlo Dragoni: the history

Villa Merlo Dragoni is a refined historical residence located in Lovaria in the municipality of Pradamano, in the province of Udine. The structure has very ancient origins: already in the 16th century there is evidence of its existence. At that time, the Villa consisted of two manor houses, the Casa Grande and the Casa Bassa, as well as several farm buildings. As the name suggests, the complex belonged to members of the Merlo family, noblemen from Udine.

Around the end of the 16th century, the Casa Grande was then purchased by Francesco Dragoni. The Casa Bassa remained in the hands of the Merlo family until 1687 when it was finally sold. After several ownership changes, it was bought by the Dragoni family in 1723.

They began carefully restoring the complex after becoming masters of the entire Villa. The structure took on its current appearance, transforming into an elegant mansion in the Venetian style. Villa Merlo Dragoni thus became an important cultural salon, frequented by important local intellectuals.

However, the complex was put up for sale in the 19th century, finally being purchased by Carlo Giacomelli in 1863. He used it as a farm, intensifying wine production in the area. However, during the early 20th century, Villa Merlo Dragoni began its slow decline. With the First World War outbreak, the structure was requisitioned and turned into a military hospital. Already heavily damaged, it subsequently suffered further tampering during the Second World War.

Once peace returned, work also began on recovering and restoring the mansion. This was finally purchased by the Savoia family, who still own it today. For some years now, Villa Merlo Dragoni has been open for events and weddings, offering its bucolic views to visitors.

Villa Merlo Dragoni: the perfect setting for a fairytale wedding

Villa Merlo Dragoni is one of the most evocative and fairy-tale locations. Situated within the historic village of Lovaria, it enjoys a beautiful panorama of the rich fields and vineyards of the area. Thanks to its historical tradition and scenic beauty, it is the ideal location for fairytale weddings.

Walking through the trees of the centuries-old park, you will feel like the protagonists of a sweet fairy tale. You will in fact be able to realise an evocative shoot immersed in the greenery for a princely memory of your day. The Villa's vast park is an enviable oasis of peace that will allow you to celebrate carefree summer receptions outdoors. In fact, the staff is ready to set up the area with white umbrellas, perfect for the hottest days.

Villa Merlo Dragoni of course also offers covered rooms, suitable for celebrating your event during the winter period. The choice is vast and adaptable to your every desire and style. For example, if you are looking for a convivial and spacious setting, we can only recommend the rustic barchessa. Do you instead prefer a more formal setting suitable for traditional, elegant weddings? Better then the Salone delle feste inside the Villa. Finally, opt for the refined Sala del Camino if you plan more intimate and exclusive celebrations.

Villa Merlo Dragoni is truly an evocative structure, capable of making your guests experience moments of pure magic. Whatever your idea of a wedding, we are sure it will be the perfect location for your most beautiful day.

Villa Merlo Dragoni: the structure of the location

Villa Merlo Dragoni, as we have seen, is a luxurious residence nestled in the fields of the gentle Friulian countryside. The structure was built in 18th-century style, making it one of the most beautiful Venetian villas in the province of Udine. Over the centuries, it has taken its current form, gradually embellished with neoclassical elements.

Entering the complex's gates, visitors are immediately greeted by the dense park surrounding Villa Merlo Dragoni. Rich in centuries-old trees, it was built in the English style. Walking along the bucolic avenue of plane trees, one can admire the structure in all its majesty. This in fact comprises several wings, according to an elongated rectangular plan.

What strikes the eye most is certainly the imposing façade of the Villa, characterised by a tympanum and two turrets connected by a loggia. Through the large doorway below, it is then possible to access the different rooms of the structure. These are a vast set of rooms and halls of different sizes, each with its own characteristics. They contain antique furniture, paintings, stucco work and mosaics.

In addition to these more formal areas, the building also opens its cellars and the nearby barchessa to visitors. Unlike the main building, these are characterised by a more rustic and convivial style. They feature the typical wooden ceiling of Venetian villas, stone walls and rough wooden floors.

Villa Merlo Dragoni, with its history and beauty, is able to enchant all its guests. It is definitely for you if you are looking for a refined, fairy-tale, extremely well-kept location.

Frequently Asked Questions About Villa Merlo Dragoni

• Where is Villa Merlo Dragoni? Villa Merlo Dragoni is located in Lovaria in the municipality of Pradamano, in the province of Udine.
• Can I celebrate my wedding inside Villa Merlo Dragoni? Certainly. You can organise the civil ceremony, the shooting and the reception inside the structure and in all the adjoining areas, such as the barchessa and the cellars. The entire complex is exclusively dedicated to your celebration.
• Does Villa Merlo Dragoni have a restaurant? Villa Merlo Dragoni offers a dedicated catering service, with a list of trusted external partners. You can, however, organise the banquet with a caterer of your choice using the kitchen space provided.
• What events can be celebrated inside Villa Merlo Dragoni? It is possible to organise your most important celebrations at Villa Merlo Dragoni. The structure is in fact open for weddings and private parties. Organising meetings, corporate events, parties and cultural events is also possible.
• Can Villa Merlo Dragoni host business meetings? Certainly. Villa Merlo Dragoni offers the Barchessa, the Saloni and the large garden for organising events and conventions.
• Can I stay overnight at Villa Merlo Dragoni? Yes, the structure provides some rooms for overnight stays. However, several hotels and B&Bs are in the vicinity of Villa Merlo Dragoni.