Piano in Abandoned Italian Villa. by Roman Robroek - Photos of Abandoned Buildings

About "Piano in Abandoned Italian Villa."

by Roman Robroek - Photos of Abandoned Buildings

About the artwork

I found this photo by chance when browsing through my old archives of unedited photos. I am so thrilled to have found it! I took this photo about 10 years ago in an abandoned Italian villa. The piano was destroyed a long time ago.

Originally built in the 19th century as a luxurious private residence, it was later transformed into a psychiatric hospital by its owner, Dr. Agostino Sbertoli, a prominent doctor of the time.

Dr. Sbertoli purchased the villa in 1860 and established the psychiatric hospital soon after. His aim was to create a facility for the treatment of mental illnesses, adhering to the more humane and progressive therapeutic practices of the era. The hospital operated for many decades, gaining a reputation for its innovative approach to mental health care, which included art and occupational therapy.

Throughout the 20th century, the hospital expanded, adding new buildings to accommodate more patients. However, as with many psychiatric institutions of the time, it eventually faced challenges such as overcrowding and underfunding. By the latter half of the 20th century, changes in mental health care practices and the deinstitutionalization movement led to a decline in such facilities.

Villa Sbertoli was ultimately abandoned in the late 20th century, falling into disrepair. Today, it stands as a reminder of its past. The once-grand villa, with its overgrown gardens and crumbling interiors, continues to capture the imagination of those who visit it.