Period Estate With Frescoes And Terraces In The Heart Of Genoa

In the heart of Genoa, stands this magnificent historical villa, an architectural masterpiece surrounded by a lush private park, currently for sale. With an internal surface area of 2,700 sqm on four levels, this period property is a rare example of Ligurian Renaissance architecture. Crossing the threshold, one is greeted by an atmosphere reminiscent of the splendour of a bygone era, where every detail tells the glorious story of this estate. With its large reception rooms and panoramic terraces, the villa is also perfectly suited as a location for exclusive events, combining the charm of the past with endless customisation possibilities. A modern renovation could include the addition of a swimming pool and further contemporary amenities, further enhancing the property's potential.

The villa is located in the exclusive Albaro district, known for its unique combination of tranquillity and proximity to the centre of Genoa, which can be reached in a few minutes. This elegant neighbourhood, a stone's throw from the sea and Corso Italia, offers striking views and a deep connection to the city's history. The gardens and parks, as well as the numerous aristocratic villas dotting the area, testify to the area's vocation as a favourite holiday destination for aristocratic families since the 16th century. The nearby attractions, such as the seaside village of Boccadasse, Giorgio Borghese's belvedere and the historic church of San Francesco d'Albaro, make this location an authentic gem for those seeking a home immersed in beauty and culture.

A masterpiece of history and art, this villa was built between the 16th and 17th centuries. Although the date of construction of the villa is still uncertain, a plaque from 1940 suggests that the work may date back to 1606, commissioned by Luca Grimaldi De Castro, doge of the Republic of Genoa. The structure features typical Renaissance elements, following the style of the Genoese villas of the pre-Alexian period.

The frescoes, decorating walls and ceilings, celebrate the pleasures of holidaying, hunting, fishing and the changing of the seasons, offering delightful glimpses into the everyday life of the nobility of the time. The villa has spanned the centuries under the aegis of illustrious families such as the Grimaldi, the Veneroso, the De Ferrari and the Spinola marquises.

With its rectangular floor plan and an arrangement on three main floors, the building is distinguished by the symmetry of its façades and architectural details reminiscent of 16th-century elegance, such as the pavilion vaults that embellish the entrance and adjacent rooms.

The villa's interiors tell a story of timeless magnificence. On the ground floor, the spacious entrance hall is dominated by a majestic fireplace with the Spinola family banner, with four oval marble decorations depicting Nero and Octavian. The ground floor can accommodate up to 200 people seated at the table and 300 standing, making it ideal for prestigious events.

The main staircase leads to the piano nobile, where a majestic 91-sqm hall is located between two loggias, flooded with natural light that streams through the tall windows and enhances the colours of the frescoes and architectural details. The communicating rooms on this floor offer space for 380 seated or 400 standing guests, making it perfect for large celebrations. A fresco here depicts the villa in its original state, showing that the eastern body was extended by a large terrace, later demolished, which covered a portico on the ground floor. In contrast, the west body has been preserved and restored. A lateral body was added to the original complex, in which there are perspective plays obtained through quadratures, i.e. illusionistic frescoes due to the 19th-century renovation by architect Crosa di Vergani.

The upper floors house additional rooms, suitable for different uses, while the mezzanines under the eaves, characterised by lower ceilings, were originally intended for servants and today could be transformed into new functional spaces.

Immersed in greenery, the villa is surrounded by a private park of 1 hectare, populated by century-old trees and well-tended lawns, which create an oasis of peace and privacy. A swimming pool could be built here. Panoramic terraces offer spectacular views of the city and the park, while a large car park can accommodate over 100 vehicles. 

Buying this villa means investing in a piece of history, immersing yourself in a world of art, culture and timeless charm. Strategically located a few minutes from the centre of Genoa and a short distance from the sea, this residence strikes a perfect balance between exclusive privacy and urban convenience.