Italy Villa Farnese (Palazzo Farnese)

Dominating the small town of Caprarola, Villa Farnese is a striking pentagonal Renaissance mansion. It is widely considered one of the finest examples of 16th-century architecture in Italy. Inside, the Scala Regia—a magnificent frescoed spiral staircase—is an absolute masterpiece of geometry. The expansive, terraced gardens behind the palace are equally impressive, featuring ornate fountains, sculptures, and a beautiful summerhouse.

The Scala Regia is undoubtedly the star of the show here. You will definitely want an ultra-wide-angle lens to capture its full sweeping curve from top to bottom. If you are shooting handheld indoors with a Sony or Leica, a fast lens is highly recommended to keep the ISO manageable, as tripods are generally not permitted inside the palace. Outside, look for strong symmetrical compositions to emphasize the imposing geometry of the building and the gardens.

The palace is located in the historic center of Caprarola. Driving through the narrow streets can be tricky, and parking near the entrance is very limited. It is best to leave your car in the designated public parking areas in the lower part of the town and walk up the main street, which also gives you a great perspective of the palace's imposing facade. There is an entrance fee, and it is highly recommended to check the opening hours in advance, as access to the upper gardens can be restricted depending on the season.