The islet of Virginia
An islet with a rich nature heritage of many species, and with origins running back to prehistoric times.
The islet of Virginia is part of the municipality named Biandronno. It is separated from the lakeside by a narrow channel called the Ticinello. The landscape setting is highly evocative and particularly beautiful. The islet, whose surface area is about ten thousand square metres, is characteristic for its dense vegetation, home to many birds including the little bittern, the coot, the great crested grebe and the waterhen. The flora of the island includes some very beautiful plants such as water-lilies and impenetrable reed beds.
Known in ancient times as the Isle of San Biagio, in 1822 it was purchased by Duke Pompeo Litta, who changed its name to Isola Camilla, as a tribute to his wife. After having purchased the island, the Duke further enriched the plant life on the island, adding more tree species. In 1878, ownership of the isle changed hands once again: it was acquired by Marquis Ponti, becoming "Virginia island" in honour of the Marchioness.
Excavations performed during the 19th century by Abbot Stoppani revealed the presence of a prehistoric settlement on the island, uncovering, little by little, the remains of one of the most important pile-dwelling settlements in Europe.
The islet of Virginia is part of the municipality named Biandronno. It is separated from the lakeside by a narrow channel called the Ticinello. The landscape setting is highly evocative and particularly beautiful. The islet, whose surface area is about ten thousand square metres, is characteristic for its dense vegetation, home to many birds including the little bittern, the coot, the great crested grebe and the waterhen. The flora of the island includes some very beautiful plants such as water-lilies and impenetrable reed beds.
Known in ancient times as the Isle of San Biagio, in 1822 it was purchased by Duke Pompeo Litta, who changed its name to Isola Camilla, as a tribute to his wife. After having purchased the island, the Duke further enriched the plant life on the island, adding more tree species. In 1878, ownership of the isle changed hands once again: it was acquired by Marquis Ponti, becoming "Virginia island" in honour of the Marchioness.
Excavations performed during the 19th century by Abbot Stoppani revealed the presence of a prehistoric settlement on the island, uncovering, little by little, the remains of one of the most important pile-dwelling settlements in Europe.
