For sale for €471 million: Roman villa with Caravaggio’s roof painted | Abroad

The precious “house” was originally part of a country house built in the 16th century by Francesco Maria del Monte. Then the cardinal also ordered artwork by Caravaggio to decorate the ceiling of his chemistry laboratory.

The work, executed in oil on plaster, dates back to 1597, when Caravaggio was still in his twenties. To depict the deities, the famous painter always used his face.

In 1621 the villa was sold to the Ludovisi, a noble family who was in close contact with the Pope. Because of the issue of inheritance, now – after four hundred years – a new owner will come. The auction is scheduled for January 18, the opening bid 471 million euros.

For this exorbitant price, as a buyer, you can still purchase additional art treasures. Just think of some frescoes by Baroque artist Guercino and a statue of Michelangelo in the garden.

However, candidates must take into account restoration costs that can be up to 11 million euros. In principle, the Italian government could also put a wrench in the works. After the last offer, she still has the right to buy the property at the same price.

Villa Aurora is located behind high walls in the center of Rome, between the Trevi Fountain and Villa Borghese. Until now, the house could only be visited once a month with a guide for a hefty fee.

At €471 million, Villa Aurora will become the third most expensive home ever. Only Buckingham Palace and Antilia (the skyscraper in Mumbai where India’s richest man lives) score significantly better at 2.6 and 1.8 billion euros, respectively. Home ONE, the largest country house in the United States, was recently on the market for 456 million euros. However, that price has now fallen to 194 million euros.