Discover Villa Balbiano on Lake Como

Lake Como certainly has no shortage of exceptional properties. From royal mansions that once hosted the likes of Napoleon to modern homes that offer all the luxuries a celebrity-loved spot (hello, George Clooney) calls for, the stunning Lake Como serves as background to some of the most jaw-dropping villas in Italy. This includes the 16th-century Villa Balbiano that served as the home of Al Pacino’s character, Aldo Gucci, in the blockbuster “House of Gucci.” In the movie, starring Adam Driver as Maurizio Gucci and Lady Gaga as his sinister ex-wife, Patrizia Reggiani, the palazzo is featured multiple times, showcasing its luxurious ambiance.

You can rest assured that the villa is just as opulent in real life as it is in the movie. Located on the Western shore of Lake Como in Ossuccio, Italy, the historical palazzo is one of the largest private residences in the area, spanning 12,916 square feet. It includes seven marble bathrooms and six suites, designed by interiors extraordinaire Jacques Garcia, who is also behind the curation of The Peninsula Paris and The NoMad Hotel in New York City.

The villa resembles a museum, filled with objets d’art and antique furniture. Its walls are adorned with 17th-century frescoes painted by the Recchi brothers and Agostino Silva. A formal dining room, a library, four salons, a studio, and an indoor pool all add to the property’s opulence. Additionally, the magnificent estate stands on a three-acre lot that includes another swimming pool, a private pier, a boathouse, and award-winning gardens.

The palazzo was built in 1596 by Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio, whose family belonged to the nobility of Como and had another castle in the northern part of the lake. In 1787, the villa changed ownership to another Cardinal, Angelo Maria Durini, who renovated it and used it to host lavish social events and parties.

This historic property provides a unique experience, offering stays that let you immerse yourself in luxury and history on March 30, 2022. The overnight experience is designed for just two guests, making it a truly exclusive getaway.