The historic Villa Palmieri, once a favoured holiday spot for Queen Victoria, is now on the market for over €50 million (£43 million).
Situated in the hills just outside Florence, the sprawling estate covers nearly 4,000 square meters, with its surrounding gardens stretching across nine hectares. According to Dreamer Real Estate, the agency handling the sale, its grounds make up the second-largest park in the city.
The property features a helipad, tennis court, and a historic swimming pool. Inside, there are 23 bedrooms and 19 bathrooms, arranged around a traditional inner courtyard. The villa’s intricate interiors have been preserved, reflecting its centuries-old history.
History of the Villa Palmieri
Dating back to the 14th century, Villa Palmieri was first owned by the Fini family before being acquired by Matteo di Marco Palmieri in 1454, who gave the estate its name. Its location near the town of Fiesole offers stunning views over Florence.
By the 18th century, it had passed into English hands – the third Earl Cowper bought it in 1760, and it was subsequently owned by the Earl of Crawford and Balcarres. The villa hosted Queen Victoria three times between 1888 and 1894.
During her stays, Queen Victoria ensured all her comforts were met, even shipping furniture, a bath, and two portraits of Prince Albert to the villa, according to a report from The New York Times in 1888. The paper also noted the Queen’s fondness for the villa’s seclusion and tranquillity.
The estate is also reputed to have a connection to Giovanni Boccaccio, one of Italy’s most celebrated writers, who is said to have drawn inspiration from its gardens, and described it in the third day of his The Decameron. The original Renaissance-style garden design has been carefully preserved.
In modern times, Villa Palmieri has hosted prestigious events, including a Givenchy fashion collection, and continues to serve as a popular venue for weddings and exclusive gatherings.
