Among the many houses dating from the colonial period in Annapolis, Hammond Harwood House is probably the most interesting. It was built in 1776 for the rich tobacco plantation owner Matthias Hammond by the English architect William Buckland. The architect employed the Anglo-Palladian style much in fashion at the time, characterised by the use of a pediment, symmetry and harmonious proportions. The façade was inspired by Villa Pisani, built by Palladio in Montagnana in the Veneto. The interior has retained its fine period furniture and richly carved wood panelling.