Found 10 properties matching your criteria
Piazza Armerina, Italy
Villa Romana del Casale stands as one of the ancient world's most extraordinary residential complexes, nestled in the verdant hills of central Sicily near the town of Piazza Armerina. Built in the early 4th century CE as an elite Roman country retreat, this UNESCO World Heritage site represents the pinnacle of late Roman villa architecture and decorative arts. The villa's most remarkable feature is its collection of mosaic floors, which cover nearly 3,500 square meters and are considered among the most extensive, well-preserved, and visually stunning Roman mosaics in the world. These intricate artworks depict scenes of daily Roman life, mythological stories, hunting expeditions, and the famous "Bikini Girls" athletic competition mosaic that continues to fascinate visitors with its surprising modernity. The villa's sophisticated design includes various residential quarters, thermal baths, reception halls, and a grand basilica, all organized around elegant peristyle courtyards that facilitated air circulation and created tranquil garden spaces. After being abandoned during the 12th century and subsequently buried by a landslide that ironically helped preserve its treasures, the villa was excavated in the early 20th century and now features protective walkways that allow visitors to view the magnificent mosaics from above. As a testament to the refined lifestyle of the Roman elite and the artistic achievements of ancient craftspeople, Villa Romana del Casale offers an unparalleled glimpse into the sophisticated cultural and aesthetic sensibilities that flourished during the late Roman Empire.
Bagnaia, Italy
Villa Lante stands as one of the supreme achievements of Italian Renaissance garden design, where architectural elements, sculptural fountains, and carefully cultivated nature combine to create a harmonious environment that embodies 16th-century humanist ideals. Located in Bagnaia near Viterbo, the villa was primarily designed by Jacopo Barozzi da Vignola for Cardinal Gianfrancesco Gambara beginning in 1566, representing the culmination of the Italian formal garden tradition. Unlike many Renaissance villas, Villa Lante places its emphasis not on an imposing central palace but on the perfect balance between twin pavilions (casini) that frame rather than dominate the garden—an architectural choice that reflects the property's philosophical focus on harmony between human design and natural elements. The garden's most distinctive feature is its sophisticated choreography of water, which flows from the summit of the terraced landscape through a sequence of ingeniously designed fountains, rills, and pools. This water journey begins with the Fountain of the Deluge at the highest point, cascades through the dramatic Fountain of the Giants with sculptural representations of Viterbo's ancient founders, continues through the geometrically perfect Fountain of the Dining Table (where water bubbles up through a central stone channel designed to cool wine bottles), and culminates in the lower Fountain of the Moors with its distinctive dark stone sculptures. The gardens are organized along a central axis that guides visitors through carefully planned visual experiences, with each terrace offering new perspectives on the mathematical precision of Italian Renaissance garden principles. Elaborate parterres showcase the art of topiary and patterns created in contrasting foliage, while the use of architectural elements like balustrades, stairs, and grottoes frames views and creates theatrical focal points. The property's harmonic balance, sophisticated hydraulic engineering, and philosophical underpinnings have made Villa Lante one of the most influential and perfectly preserved examples of Italian Renaissance garden design—a masterclass in the integration of architecture, sculpture, and nature that continues to inspire garden designers and visitors alike.
Lenno, Italy
Villa del Balbianello graces the tip of a wooded peninsula on the western shore of Lake Como, creating one of Italy's most picturesque and romantic settings. Originally built in the late 18th century on the site of a Franciscan monastery, this elegant villa was transformed into its present sophisticated form by Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini, who used it as a literary retreat. The villa's distinctive loggia with three graceful arches frames breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Como's crystal blue waters and the surrounding Alps, creating picture-perfect vistas from every angle. Immaculate terraced gardens cascade down toward the lake, featuring meticulously pruned plane trees, elegant balustrades, and classical statuary that complement the natural beauty of the setting. The interior contains refined furnishings and an important collection of Chinese and African art assembled by the villa's last private owner, explorer Guido Monzino, who led the first Italian expedition to Mount Everest. Movie enthusiasts may recognize the villa from international films including "Star Wars: Episode II" and "Casino Royale." Now managed by the Italian National Trust (FAI), Villa del Balbianello's harmonious blend of architecture, landscaping, and natural beauty makes it one of Lake Como's most visited attractions and a coveted wedding venue, offering visitors an experience of refined lakeside elegance that captures the romantic essence of Italian villa life.
Sovicille, Italy
Villa Cetinale stands as a sublime example of Italian Baroque architecture nestled amid the ancient olive groves and cypress trees of the Tuscan countryside near Siena. Built in 1680 by Cardinal Flavio Chigi, nephew of Pope Alexander VII, and designed by the renowned architect Carlo Fontana, the villa represents the height of aristocratic country living during the Baroque period. The imposing three-story villa features a symmetrical façade with rhythmic windows and a central entrance portico, while the interior showcases frescoed ceilings, original terrazzo floors, and antique furnishings that transport visitors to the golden age of Italian nobility. The villa's truly exceptional feature is its magnificent formal gardens, considered among the finest in Italy. These gardens extend dramatically up the hillside behind the house via the "Scala Santa" (Holy Stair), a monumental stone staircase of 300 steps leading to the "Romitorio," a stone hermitage with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Tuscan landscape. The expansive grounds include meticulously clipped box hedges, lemon trees in terracotta pots, classical statuary, a secluded swimming pool, and groves of ancient olive trees that produce the estate's own olive oil. With its perfect combination of architectural splendor, historical significance, and integration into the iconic Tuscan landscape, Villa Cetinale offers a quintessential experience of refined rural living in one of Italy's most celebrated regions.
Poggio a Caiano, Italy
Villa Medici di Poggio a Caiano stands as a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture nestled amidst the rolling hills of Tuscany. Commissioned in 1480 by Lorenzo de' Medici (Lorenzo the Magnificent) and designed by the visionary architect Giuliano da Sangallo, this villa represents a revolutionary departure from medieval fortified structures toward a more harmonious integration with its natural surroundings. The villa's most distinctive feature is its classically inspired porticoed façade with a prominent central arch, which introduces visitors to the perfectly proportioned interior spaces. Inside, the main salon showcases extraordinary frescoes by Andrea del Sarto, Pontormo, and Franciabigio depicting scenes from Roman history and Medici family allegories, creating one of the most important fresco cycles of the Italian Renaissance. The villa is surrounded by meticulously designed formal gardens with geometric flower beds, ancient cypress trees, and panoramic terraces that offer breathtaking views of the Tuscan landscape. As one of the earliest examples of Renaissance country architecture, the villa influenced countless later designs across Europe. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage site houses the Museum of Still Life and serves as a testament to the Medici family's profound influence on Renaissance art, architecture, and culture while offering visitors an authentic glimpse into the refined lifestyle of Tuscan nobility.
Venice, Italy
Ca' Rezzonico is an extraordinary Venetian palazzo and a masterpiece of 18th-century Venetian Baroque architecture perched majestically on Venice's iconic Grand Canal. Commissioned by the aristocratic Bon family and completed by the wealthy Rezzonico family in 1756, this magnificent palace now houses the Museum of 18th-century Venice. The imposing white marble façade with its symmetrical windows and ornate balconies presents a striking example of Venetian Baroque design, while inside, visitors are transported to the height of Venetian opulence. The palazzo's interior features spectacular frescoed ceilings by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo and Giambattista Crosato, ornate gilded furnishings, Murano glass chandeliers, and an impressive collection of period art and artifacts. Each room recreates the lavish environment that characterized Venetian aristocratic life during the final century of the Republic of Venice. The palace's elevated position on the Grand Canal offers breathtaking views of Venice's waterway, while its ballrooms, ceremonial staircases, and intimate family chambers provide a comprehensive insight into the daily life and social rituals of 18th-century Venetian nobility.
Siena, Italy
Experience the epitome of Tuscan luxury in this 12th-century castle, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. The castle features original frescoes, a private chapel, and panoramic views of the Chianti hills.
Castellina in Chianti, Italy
Perched on a hilltop in the heart of Chianti, this magnificent castle estate offers breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and olive groves. With its elegant interiors, authentic Tuscan charm, and exceptional wine cellar, Castello La Leccia provides an unforgettable luxury experience.
Cinigiano, Italy
This stunning 11th-century castle in Tuscany's Maremma region offers an authentic medieval experience combined with modern luxury. Set amidst vineyards and olive groves, the castle features original stone walls, elegant furnishings, and panoramic views of the rolling Tuscan hills.
Cernobbio, Italy
A stunning 16th-century residence surrounded by a 25-acre park. This Renaissance aristocratic residence offers unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views of Lake Como.