One of the peculiarities of Villa Bibbiani is undoubtedly the private church, a small consecrated votive chapel, finely adorned with artistic elements. The chapel was an original part of the Villa, apparently built in the same period over 1300 years ago. The votive chapel, also known as the noble chapel, was consecrated by Pope Clement XIII in 1700.

After a careful renovation it has finally been restored to its original splendour, including frescoes, sculptures and mosaics. Currently it is possible to organize dream weddings in this splendid setting, full of elegance and history. An incredible and unique location where time seems to have stopped kindly.

Pope Clement XIII

A Papal Patron: Who Was Pope Clement XIII?

The Pope who bestowed this rare honor upon Villa Bibbiani was Carlo Rezzonico of Venice, who reigned as Pope Clement XIII from 1758 to 1769.

Born into Venetian nobility, his papacy is remembered for his immense personal conviction and his patronage of the arts during the high Neoclassical period. He is most famous for his steadfast defense of the Jesuit Order against the unified political pressure of Europe's most powerful monarchs.

The fact that he granted a Perpetual Indulgence in 1767, at the direct personal request of Giuseppe Frescobaldi, was an extraordinary act of grace. It was a sign of deep personal favor, demonstrating the remarkable standing and influence the Frescobaldi family held in Rome, and forever linking the Villa to the highest levels of the Vatican.

Endless Possibilities for Your Celebration

The chapel tells a rare and moving story of a father and son, a testament to family devotion and legacy.

The story begins with the lower plaque, which records that in 1754, the noble Francesco Frescobaldi (FRANCISCVS FRESCOBALDIVS) honored the ancient spirit of the land. He had a sacred altar stone retrieved from the ancient crypt of a local saint, Saint Grania, and installed it here to be "more elegantly adorned."

The story is completed by the plaque above it. In 1767, Francesco’s son, Giuseppe Frescobaldi (IOSEPHI . F . FRANCISCI), petitioned His Holiness Pope Clement XIII for the ultimate blessing. As a personal favor, the Pope granted a Perpetual Plenary Indulgence to this very altar, a decree that forever ties the Villa and the Frescobaldi name to the grace of the Vatican.

To exchange your vows here is to stand upon a sacred relic, blessed by a Pope, in a chapel built as an act of enduring family love. It offers a sense of history and divine favor that simply cannot be replicated.

  • The Grand Arch: Host your ceremony or reception under the Villa's iconic archway, offering breathtaking views and a perfect frame for your moment.
  • The Botanical Park: Welcome your guests with cocktails among the rare and ancient trees of the 19th-century botanical park.
  • The Grand Ballroom: Our indoor event space provides a flawless setting for dining and dancing, allowing your celebration to continue late into the night.

Our dedicated events team partners with Italy’s finest vendors to ensure every detail, from the flowers to the feast, is a reflection of your unique story. Contact us to begin planning your chapter in the Villa’s long and beautiful history.

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