A luxury villa in Sicily, built by Admiral Lord Nelson
Since Nelson’s time, the villa has welcomed members of the British royal family, has been the home to an Italian count and played an important role in the film, ‘The Godfather’. Now it can be yours.
Built around 1780 by Admiral Horatio Nelson, this historic villa boasts a wonderful, scenic location overlooking the Bay of Naxos. The villa remained in the hands of the Nelson family until 1947, when it was sold to an Italian noble family.
Situated only 500 metres from the historic centre of Taormina, the charming villa, on three floors, offers lovely sea views and more than 1,000m² of living space.
There are several reception rooms, including the day room with access to the nearby park, living room, dining room, lounge and a large balcony with beautiful views of the sea. The top floor houses the servants’ area and a kitchen overlooking the inner courtyard.
The appropriately grand scale period furnishings blend perfectly with the18th-century inserts, such as fireplaces, seats and niches obtained by Nelson from his numerous conquests. Notable pieces of the varied art collection have been displayed in many of the most important museums in Europe.
The surrounding park and gardens cover an area of 40,000m² (10 acres), extending along the sea. The garden offers dense vegetation, including palm and coco trees, and many local species of shrubs, almond trees, olive trees, oleanders, prickly pear and cactus.
The garden contains many historical and artistic testaments to the ancient Roman and Greek civilizations, including the largest Roman tomb in Sicily dating from the 3rd century AD and a Greek temple dedicated to the worship of the god Pan. As well, there is a Protestant chapel with Corinthian columns.
Among the guests who have visited the villa are King George V and Queen Mary, who were guests of the Nelson family in 1925. Other guests have included Princess Margaret as well as many other royals from around the world, such as the Shah of Iran and Princess Soraya.
The property is being sold completely furnished.
Price upon request.
