This is because you drive about 2 kilometers (southeast from Codroipo) in a straight line toward the villa, which makes it seem even more imposing than it already is. Today, Villa Manin is a haven for modern art.
Of course, it wasn't always that way: Villa Manin was the residence of the last Doge of Venice, who retired here in the 18th century when Napoleon (who stayed here for a time in 1797 before signing the Treaty of Campoformido) brought the Venetian Republic to an end.
The building was constructed between 1650 and 1660 and, in its form, is somewhat reminiscent of Villa Pisani in Stra, though it lacks such an amusing garden maze.
However, the 19-hectare park of Villa Manin is used for art exhibitions and installations, among other things, that are well worth seeing.
