Art and Culture

The 19th century Splendide palace hotel has long been hosting its guests with historical grandeur and modern day luxury and much of the architecture in the whole Ticino region is just as impressive as the natural scenery that surrounds it. The buildings range from classic 20th to modern day 21st century. Book one of the organised walking tours to discover Lugano’s architectural highlights. The experience is like taking a walk back through time as you will see Lugano then and now through its beautiful buildings. Enjoy visiting some of the most stunning historic palaces and churches from Chiattone to Vacchini. The tour takes you on a guided trail from Tami to Botta, in which you will be able to take photographs and admire Lugano from a different perspective. The excellent concierge desk will be delighted to help you with all your bookings.
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After a restful nights sleep wake slowly and take a moment to enjoy a hearty breakfast with a view of the lake on the terrace of La Terrazza, before heading to a special place that will take your breath away. Chiesa St Ambrose di Ponte Capriasca is situated just 20 minutes away from the hotel. Here you will find the very magical and beautiful church of St Ambrose, which is a hidden gem. This modest little Church, contains an incredible copy of Da Vinci s Last Supper painted by one of his pupils. You'll be overwhelmed by the beauty of the famous Last Supper painting and deeply moved by the unexpected presence of such artwork in such an unassuming place. The copy of the Last Supper is not the only surprise here, it's also home to several frescos created at Davinci s 16th Century school. Sitting in the still and tranquil cool of the Church you can take time to take a breath and reflect of the world around you and gaze again at the unexpected privilege of the art the Church protects. You'll leave feeling refreshed, peaceful, inspired and at peace. Carry on your artistic discussions over a lavish dinner prepared by the outstanding executive chef Domenico Roberto and his team back at the Hotel whilst enjoying spectacular views over Lake Lugano, an experience not to be missed!
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If you are looking for a culture-inspired day, we suggest you to take a walk a few steps away from the hotel. The LAC Lugano is an architectural genius of a building giving a 360 degree view into the world of art and culture. LAC, Lugano Arte e Cultura is an architectural jewel that blends contem porary visions into a historic building with breath-taking views of Lake Lugano. Art exhibitions, ballet, music are the focal point of magnificence that the LAC embodies. A cultural centre funded by the City of Lugano, it is a structure of CHF 260 million which gives the population and visitors a range of events bringing great value to the city. Its perfect acoustics and ad hoc design make it an ideal stage for concerts and ballets. Witha new 1000 seat concert and theatre is perfect for lovers of the arts. Its collection are combined with various temporary exhibitions that make the cultural reality of the city lively and eclectic. The Finzi Pasca Company and the Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana, are both resident at the LAC. From morning till night the LAC offers many activities not to be missed.Splendide’s concierge is available for all information relating to exhibitions shows and tickets.
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Located on Lugano's lakeside in the historic Villa Malpensata, the MUSEC offers a rich program of exhibitions and events dedicated to ethnic and oriental arts, children’s creativity, modern and contemporary art. The Spazio Maraini is entirely dedicated to historical and contemporary photography. On the ground and firts floor the Spazio Mostre hosts major exhibitions. On the second floor, Spazio Cielo allows you to discover new collections and the work of contemporary artists. In addition, The Spazio Tesoro is accessible free of charge, with highlights from the permanent collections. MUSEC preserves masterpieces of South Seas art, donated by Swiss artist Serge Brignoni to the City of Lugano. Over the years, numerous other prestigious collections have been added, including one of the most important collections in the world of hand-painted Japanese photographs from the late 19th century.
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The Splendide Royal is situated close to the Vincenzo Vela Museum and is one of the most important artists' house-museums to have been established in nineteenth-century Europe. The Vela family artist’s villa was donated to the Swiss confederation for use as a public museum and visitors are treated to a remarkable collection of nineteenth-century paintings from Lombardy and Piedmont, hundreds of autograph drawings and one of the earliest private collections of photographs inSwitzerland. It is a unique opportunity to experience the true essence of an artist’s home and the abundance of this creativity of work is enormous. The walls are hung with drawings and preparatory sketches for Vela’s sculptural works, but also with period photographs and prints. With approximately 5.000 works to view at the museum, and a stunning park that surrounds this beautiful home, you should allow plenty of time for your visit. Stroll through the grounds and inhale the zesty scent of lemon trees and then enjoy lunch in the seated area with a delicious picnic prepared by our Executive Chef. A special day for experiencing the artistic Swiss-Italian culture. The museum is located at the foot of Monte San Giorgio a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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Walk a few meters from the Splendide and immerse yourself in the museum managed by the Gabriele and Anna Braglia Foundation, the ideal place to admire wonderful temporary exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. The strong desire of Gabriele and Anna Braglia to open their collection to the public lead them to creating the Foundation, which organizes, supports and promotes art exhibitions and cultural activities since 2014. Visiting the foundation you will discover and love the extraordinary works on display, and you will have the opportunity to appreciate the many facets of modern art. Upon your return to the hotel, after admiring the numerous and evocative works, choose from the wide range of spa treatments and take advantage of a pure wellness experience with a massage in Splendide’s brand new Spa.
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