Introduction to the Castle
A 1,000-year-old Italian castle once designed for war is now courting peace — and a buyer. The sprawling 102,257-square-foot estate, located in the town of Landriano about 15 miles south of Milan, has hit the market for roughly $4.16 million.
History of the Castle
Originally built in the early 11th century as a military stronghold for the noble Landriani family, the fortress underwent a dramatic shift in the 1500s after it was acquired by the aristocratic Taverna family. They softened its defensive edges, removing towers and battlements and infused the interiors with Renaissance flair.
A sprawling 1,000-year-old castle just 15 miles south of Milan, Italy is on the market for about $4.16 million. Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
Transformation into a Renaissance Residence
Originally built in the early 11th century as a military fortress for the noble Landriani family, the 102,257-square-foot estate in Landriano was transformed into an elegant Renaissance residence by the powerful Taverna family in the 16th century, complete with frescoes and ornamental flourishes. Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
“With the Taverna family, it became an elegant Renaissance home with frescoes — less severe and more for receptions,” Diletta Giorgolo of Italy Sotheby’s International Realty, which began marketing the property at the end of July, told Mansion Global.
Current State of the Castle
Today, remnants of that transformation remain visible in the castle’s vaulted porticoes and walls still adorned with centuries-old frescoes. A white stucco exterior and red-tiled roof encircle a central courtyard, anchoring the estate’s architectural symmetry.
Abandoned by the 19th century, the castle was restored in the early 20th and has remained privately owned since the 1980s. Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
While the current owners never completed a full renovation, the castle still features original Renaissance frescoes, 10 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms and a central courtyard framed by a pointed arch portico. Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
Potential Uses of the Castle
Though once abandoned in the 19th century, the castle was brought back to life in the early 20th and has been privately owned ever since. The current sellers, whose identities remain undisclosed, acquired the property in the 1980s but never completed a full restoration. The structure, while grand in scale, is in need of significant work. The listing notes 10 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms.
Despite its renovation needs, the property offers substantial potential. Set on 1.2 acres, the romantic property could serve as a hotel or foundation headquarters. Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
Its location — close to Milan, Liguria, major airports and bordering countries — also makes it viable as a private residence, according to listing agent Diletta Giorgolo of Italy Sotheby’s International Realty. Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
Giorgolo suggested it could be converted into a boutique hotel or a foundation headquarters, citing its sheer size and strategic location. “It’s ideal because you’re close to the city, but you’re already on the way down to the seaside [region of Liguria],” she told the outlet. “It’s also an easy reach from the airport and Germany, Switzerland and Austria, so it’s centrally located.” She added, “It’s a very romantic place.”
Conclusion
The castle’s rich history, stunning architecture, and potential for renovation make it a unique and exciting opportunity for buyers. With its prime location and ample space, it could be transformed into a luxurious private residence, a boutique hotel, or a foundation headquarters. Regardless of its future use, the castle is sure to remain a testament to Italy’s rich history and cultural heritage.
FAQs
Q: How old is the castle?
A: The castle is approximately 1,000 years old, dating back to the early 11th century.
Q: Where is the castle located?
A: The castle is located in the town of Landriano, about 15 miles south of Milan, Italy.
Q: How much does the castle cost?
A: The castle is listed for sale at roughly $4.16 million.
Q: What is the current state of the castle?
A: The castle is in need of significant renovation, but it still features original Renaissance frescoes, 10 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, and a central courtyard.
Q: What are the potential uses of the castle?
A: The castle could be converted into a boutique hotel, a foundation headquarters, or a private residence, due to its prime location and ample space.
