A FESTIVAL FOR MOTOR ENTHUSIASTS.
A FESTIVAL FOR MOTOR ENTHUSIASTS.
Since its inception in 1929, the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este has stood for a unique combination of exquisite design, technical sophistication and cultural heritage. The event is traditionally held against the picturesque backdrop of the Grand Hotel Villa d’Este, where the historic vehicles are displayed in a stylish setting.
Each year, an expert jury selects the most outstanding examples from different eras of automotive history in various competition classes. Participants and visitors can look forward to an exciting weekend full of elegant parades, exclusive award ceremonies and inspiring conversations among like-minded people.
With its charm and flair, the Concorso d’Eleganza combines tradition with innovation and offers a glimpse into the golden age of automotive development, while also looking ahead to the future of mobility. An event that makes the heart of every car enthusiast beat faster.
We remain focused on turning the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este into an exceptional automotive festival accessible to everyone.
Head of BMW Group Classic
FROM A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE.
FROM A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE.
The history of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este dates back to 1929, when the first automobile gathering took place at Villa d’Este. The history of Villa d’Este itself goes all the way back to the 16th century. In 1568, the villa was built on the shore of Lake Como as a summer residence for a cardinal. Over the centuries, not only the magnificent building underwent many impressive expansions but also the greenery surrounding it. The land was designed with creative sophistication and, over the years, arguably became one of the most beautiful gardens and parks in the world. In 1873, after the villa had passed through the hands of various historically significant owners, it was turned into a luxury hotel. The Grand Hotel Villa d’Este became the premier destination in Europe for the bourgeoisie and nobility, and it has even served as a Hollywood backdrop. It is no surprise, then, that in the early 20th century, with the rise of the automobile, a group of car enthusiasts discovered this grand location for themselves: In 1929, the first Concorso d’Eleganza took place in the gardens of Villa d’Este.
FROM NOVELTY TO CLASSIC EVENT.
FROM NOVELTY TO CLASSIC EVENT.
The first Concorso d’Eleganza had very little in common with today’s event. In 1929, the founding year, automobile history was still in its infancy. A sense for automobile engineering traditions or appreciation for classic vehicle designs had yet to take shape. The first Concorsos at Lake Como, which initially took place sporadically, were therefore dedicated to automotive novelties. Vehicle manufacturers from around the world, including numerous family-owned businesses, presented their boldly designed new vehicles and prototypes in the gardens of Villa d’Este. The top contender was then awarded the “Coppa d’Oro”. Historical upheavals, however, caused the star of the show to decline. The Wall Street Crash of 1929, the Second World War, and the subsequent post-war order with its rapid industrial modernization, which led to the demise of many small vehicle manufacturers, all contributed to the temporary end of the Concorso d’Eleganza in 1949. In 1995, the revival took place, reimagined as an event for classic automobiles. Since 1999, BMW has been a partner of the Grand Hotel Villa d’Este and the main sponsor of the Concorso d’Eleganza in the form that is known and valued today. The unique beauty of the architectural and landscape design, combined with the enviable lakeside location, continues to exert great fascination and, therefore, provides the perfect stage to celebrate the highlights of automotive tradition.
