Villa Palagonia or the “Villa of the Monsters,” built in the 18th century, was visited by German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe in 1787. He described it as a place filled with “elements of madness,” because to him, its decor was a grotesque expression of the unconscious (And he’s right!). Certainly, in the late 18th century, such a place with its hall of mirrors and perimeter lined with hundreds of fantastical statues was shocking to see. The ceiling of this ballroom is completely covered with mirrors (Although now, after 3 centuries, their luster has faded.) that reflect and distort your reflection with every step.

#stunningsicily
(Where we would have been today)

(Photo Credit: Nick Gagliano of Studio Uno)