Municipality of Negrar di Valpolicella
This territory has been inhabited by humans since prehistoric times, as confirmed by findings from the Paleolithic period in the area between Montecchio and Montericco.
In the Roman era, Negrar came under the Pagus of the Arusnates, a people of uncertain ethnic composition (Etruscans, Venetians, Rhaetians, Celts) who were in Valpolicella before the arrival of the Romans.
The increase in population from 1000 A.D. led to the growth of inhabited towns and villages, as recorded in documents referring to a number of castles built in the area at Negrar, San Vito, Roselle, Fane and Arbizzano.
In the 14th century, Negrar came under the jurisdiction of Valpolicella, controlled by the Scaligero family, before passing to that of the Venetian Republic, confirming its status as a municipality “rich” in natural resources and business activities, with a burgeoning growth in population.
Venetian rule was reflected in a steady enrichment of business activities, one example of which being the introduction of a weekly cattle market in 1791.
Today, Negrar remains true to its cultural and economic traditions: agriculture (fruit, grape varieties and cherries), wine production, livestock breeding and local products (cold cuts, Monte Veronese cheese), quarrying of Prun stone.
There are many villas to see, especially in the Jago area. The typical characteristics of the Veneto villa are displayed in the villa Pigari, now Dall’Ora, with its attractive 16th century features like the twin flights of front steps.
The man of letters Giangiacomo Pigari, who published an important study on the history of the valley, was born here in 1553.
Villa Spinosa, built in the 19th century, is a palazzo typical of town residences, featuring compact proportions and geometries.
The west front overlooks a splendid Italian style garden.
Villa Rizzardi in Pojega, designed by architect Filippo Messedaglia, was built between 1868 and 1870 on the site of an existing 17th century property.
The magnificent garden laid out to the rear of the villa, measuring over 50,000 square metres, was designed by the renowned Veronese architect Luigi Trezza.
