Last Updated on 8th October 2024 by Charlotte Nadeau
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Discover one of Puglia’s hidden treasures—an eclectic and vibrant house museum designed by artist Vincenzo Maria Brunetti. Also known as Vincent’s Eremo or Vincent’s Hermitage, this whimsical palace resembles a scene from “Alice in Wonderland” and is located among lush olive groves in Guagnano, the artist’s birthplace. Here’s your comprehensive guide to visiting Vincent City!
What and Where is Vincent City?
Vincent City is a remarkable installation that embodies artistic expression and creativity. It is undoubtedly one of Puglia’s best-kept secrets, yet it truly deserves wider recognition. The site serves as the home and gallery of the local artist, Vincenzo Maria Brunetti.
This ever-evolving house-museum is situated in the serene countryside of Guagnano, northwest of Lecce. Here, Vincenzo resides in solitude, with the eccentric Vincent City hidden along the road between Taranto and Lecce amidst the sunlit fields of the Apulian region.
In a space where art, spirituality, and nature intertwine, Vincent’s Hermitage evokes the charm of Antoni Gaudí’s Parc Güell in Barcelona.
A History of Vincent City
The roots of Vincent City date back to the 1990s when Vincent Brunetti took ownership of a humble residence. Since then, it has transformed into a spectacular explosion of color and creativity, starkly contrasting the local traditional architecture of Guagnano.
At one point, local authorities attempted to restrict the inventive artist from altering his home further, fearing his work would disrupt the landscape. Nevertheless, Vincent successfully persuaded them to allow him to continue his artistic endeavors.
For over three decades, Vincent has curated this enchanting playground, filled with dreamlike visions, religious motifs, and influences from hippie culture, represented through mosaics, sculptures, and paintings. Your gaze will easily drift from one captivating detail to the next, and even upon your arrival, you may find yourself captivated by the facade.
Vincent has become a colorful local figure and a minor celebrity, sharing his philosophy of life through both his artwork and his vibrant use of color. In a recent interview, he expressed his love for disco music, which perfectly embodies the spirit of Vincent City—a grand festival of art!
How to Visit Vincent City
Though Vincent City is primarily a private home, the artist graciously opens it to the public. Visiting is entirely free; however, donations are welcomed. A small parking area is available, and you might even have the pleasure of meeting Vincent himself, who often gives tours of this whimsical wonderland.
Despite the plethora of artistic creations, a visit typically lasts about 20 minutes, allowing you to soak in the unique expressions of art present. Visiting Vincent City feels like stepping into one of Puglia’s hidden jewels!
Information about opening hours is scarce, as Vincent tends to open the space at his discretion. It’s advisable to visit during daylight hours for the best chance to explore inside.
While Vincent is the name behind the residence, another artist left his mark on this captivating space. The Apulian artist Orodè Deoro lived in Vincent City for five years, during which he crafted the intricate mosaics that adorn the walls of the house museum.
Born in the nearby city of Taranto, Orodè’s artistic contributions enhance the character of Vincent City, transforming it into the vibrant artistic paradise it is today. Thus, your visit allows you to appreciate the works of two creative visionaries from the Puglia region!
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