Casteldidone, Villa Mina della Scala

The building of the Villa Mina della Scala, now Douglas-Scotti, in Casteldidone, began in 1596 and continued during the first half of the 18th century with enlargements by descendants of the Schizzi family of Cremona. It is a summer and representation residence, with a linear and compact structure, enclosed between square angular towers and a neo-castellan pattern. Entirely rearranged, internally in 1656 and externally in 1725, it keeps in its interior wonderful frescoes and ancient pieces of furniture. The topics depicted on the vaulted ceilings are the classical topics of a rural mansion; puttoes, mythological characters and representations of the virtues, prudence, justice, temperance and strength. During the year, considering the favourable rural location, the villa becomes the ideal place of numerous village events, such as the Festival of the Melon of Casteldidone.