History – Tenuta Bally

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Our History

1917

Ernesto Otto Bally, nephew of the founder of the Bally Shoe Factory in Schönenwerd, was a passionate hunter and a true friend of nature. Attracted by Ticino—and especially the city of Lugano through his wife, Marguerite Hüssy—he seized the opportunity provided by a large-scale land reclamation in the Vedeggio plain. In 1917, he purchased marshy lands along the river’s left bank and adjoining hills, launching an ambitious project to transform a wild landscape into a productive agricultural estate.

Early 20th Century

Adjacent to one of the estate’s old mills, the Ronchetto Garden emerged around a renovated silkworm-rearing facility. Spanning three levels, this charming garden offers sweeping views of the property and the Malcantone mountains, reflecting Otto Bally’s innovative spirit and his desire to harmonize nature with creative enterprise.

1934

By 1934, the legacy of Ernesto Otto Bally was well established. A celebrated family portrait from this period captures four generations of the Bally lineage, symbolizing a tradition founded on determination, ingenuity, and a profound connection to the land.

1948

In 1948, the Bally and von Teufenstein families had firmly consolidated their heritage. A memorable family photograph from this time reflects a united kinship, dedicated to managing the estate and preserving both its cultural and agricultural traditions.

Modern Era

Today, the estate is steered by the grandchildren of Otto Bally, who have successfully merged time-honored traditions with modern, sustainable practices. Under a collective management structure, they continue to innovate in agriculture and winemaking, ensuring the legacy of Ticino’s rich heritage endures.

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