History
Situated just a short stroll away from Vatican City, Villa “La Contessa” is an exquisite Italian manor nestled on the breath-taking grounds of the renowned via Aurelia Antica. This extraordinary estate holds not only stunning natural beauty but also significant historical ties to the Vatican.
Italy’s elite
The villa’s prime location in a prestigious district of Rome, highly sought after by ambassadors, coupled with its enchanting allure, has long captivated Italy’s elite. Its captivating history dates back to the 19th century when a distinguished gentleman named Ettore Franceschini established a prosperous family enterprise. The Franceschini brand swiftly became synonymous with affluence. Their luxurious stores in Largo Goldoni and Via Del Corso became a haven for those seeking fashionable attire imported from France and England, ensuring they would stand out at Rome’s most glamorous social gatherings.
A seventeenth-century gem
Ettore’s brother, Cesare, later joined the thriving business and was in such high demand that he expanded their reach with another boutique in Paris. However, the outbreak of World War II necessitated a scaling back of international operations. Following Ettore’s passing, Cesare inherited farmlands and vineyards located just south of the Vatican, between the present-day Villa Doria Pamphili and Via Gregorio VII. Among these lands stood several abandoned country houses, one of which Cesare found particularly appealing—a seventeenth-century gem.
Life of luxury in Rome
Cesare and his wife, Adriana, lived a life of luxury in Rome, but they also cherished nature. Consequently, they embarked on the renovation of the seventeenth-century property, transforming it into the splendid Villa “La Contessa” that exists today. It became a serene rural oasis just on the outskirts of Rome, where they hosted grand parties and balls for their friends, played tennis, and indulged in horseback riding. Their love for horses led to the establishment of stables and garages for Cesare’s impressive collection of vintage carriages within the three-hectare estate.
Exquisite Italian garden
As Rome expanded over the years, the once-sprawling country estate found itself enveloped by the growing capital. It gradually evolved into a luxurious residence at the heart of the city. In 1947, Cesare and Adriana enlisted their friend, the renowned architect Marcello Piacentini, to design an exquisite Italian garden that remains a focal point of the property, adorning the picturesque surroundings of the swimming pool. Piacentini also oversaw the renovation of the villa, leaving his mark with the masterpiece of an architectural gem—a spiral staircase gracing the main house.
A precious secret
What truly distinguishes this estate, however, lies hidden behind an iron-cast gate, a precious secret that unveils catacombs deep beneath the grounds. These catacombs hold the remains of two Popes, known as “Two Feliks.” In 274 AD, Pope Felix I was interred there, followed by the addition of the remains of Pope Felix II in 365 AD, infamous for being an antipope. The historical significance of these catacombs has resulted in the keys to the gate being entrusted to the Vatican’s archaeological team.
A magical sanctuary
This property has remained within the same family for four generations, silently witnessing the growth and transformation of the Italian capital. Despite its proximity to the bustling center of Rome, Villa “La Contessa” has always served as a magical sanctuary, offering respite from the city’s commotion. It stands as both a testament to Rome’s history and a luxurious haven for the esteemed family who calls it home.