The first terraced constructions in the area of where Brissago is today were documented as far back as around 1,000 BC. At that time, Ligurians and Celts had major settlements in that region. The Romans brought with them a different culture that included new cultivated plants (such as grapes, chestnuts and nuts), which later gained great economic significance and gave this spot a Mediterranean touch. As a place of “poetry which I would like to find in my painting”, that’s how the famous English painter Ben Nicholson (1894 – 1982) called the piece of ground above Brissago, the place where he built its beautiful home, which became his personal and professional residence for many years. As a son of artist he visited art schools in Norfolk and London. The “English Picasso”, had been influenced by Picasso and Mondrian and counts not only as a splendid representative of Neoclassicism, but also as one of the greatest artists of the 20th century. His former home in Brissago is still existing and almost true to original. It lies high above the subtropical lake in a marvelous park with rare mature plants, palms, olives, pomegranates, Indian figs and many more. The present owner, who is also a painter herself, restored this gem respectfully. It now can become your home and your atelier.

Posted By: Ueli F. Schnorf