Italy Sotheby's International Realty

Inside The Italian Villa That Belonged To The Family Of Leonardo Da Vinci’s Muse

3 months ago

It's a rural Italian paradise

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Dreaming of life in the Italian countryside? Check out this spectacular 16-century villa which was once inhabited by Lisa del Gioconda, best known as Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa.

Inside Mona Lisa’s €18 Million Italian Villa

Villa living room with chandelier, floral sofas and fireplace

Italy Sotheby’s International Realty

Summer in Italy is always gorgeous, but it’s unbeatable if you happen to spend it in this Florence villa. Boasting 14 bedrooms, 15 bathrooms and 66 acres of lush grounds, this property is a real showstopper; plus, it’s got a fascinating history to boot.

Dating back to the 16th century, this villa originally belonged to silk merchant Francesco del Giocondo – the husband of Lisa del Giocondo, who is believed to be the woman depicted in Da Vinci’s renowned Mona Lisa. While the exact story behind the famous painting is, of course, largely unknown, it’s thought that it was created after Francesco commissioned Da Vinci to paint a portrait of Lisa.

Aerial view of Italian villa with outdoor pool, landscaped gardens and a tree-lined drive

Italy Sotheby’s International Realty

Now bearing the name ‘Villa Monna Lisa’, the staggering property is certainly befitting of such an incredible story. The main house alone spans more than 30,000 square feet, containing five reception rooms, two dining rooms and a library alongside staff quarters and a gym. Nestled within the estate, meanwhile, is a chapel, orangery and a greenhouse.

Villa bedroom with ceiling detailing, cream drapes and parquet flooring

Italy Sotheby’s International Realty

The gardens were designed by esteemed English architect Cecil Pinsent, who envisioned the estate as a kind of Italian palace; strolling along the tree-lined avenue leading to the main house, for instance, you’ll spot landscaped gardens dotted with rose bushes and ornamental flower pots. Among manicured lawns and pockets of woodland, you’ll also find a swimming pool and a tennis court.

Villa library with leather armchairs, chandeliers and a wall tapestry

Italy Sotheby’s International Realty

So, if you fancy owning a dazzling part of artistic history – and living out a rural Italian fantasy while you’re at it – this is most definitely the property for you. It might come with a rather hefty price tag, but we have a feeling it’ll be snapped up in no time.