Events & Tours
The Most Famous Concours d’Elegance: Villa d'Este and Chantilly, Refinement and Luxury
The Villa d'Este and Chantilly elegance competitions showcase the grandeur of classic cars in stunning settings. These prestigious events highlight European luxury and refinement, attracting enthusiasts and collectors.
Old Europe boasts two examples of how the setting of an event can contribute to its prestige and allure: the Italian and French Concours d'Elegance.
The ancient palace of Cernobbio, on Lake Como, was initially developed as a religious site connected to the Roman Church. Located in one of the world's most beautiful places, it later became the luxurious summer residence of a Cardinal. Over the years, it hosted the Russian Tsarina, known for her lavish parties, and in 1873, it was transformed into a luxury hotel. This hotel, with continuous improvements, has become a sumptuous home for international tourists and a venue for grand events. It was here, in 1929, that the first Concorso d’Eleganza dedicated to automobiles was organized. At the time, it featured contemporary cars, admired and often purchased by attendees. After a hiatus during the war, the tradition resumed in 1949 with the victory of the Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS, giving the event its name, Villa d'Este.
