Admiral Horatio Nelson is regarded as “one of the greatest naval commanders in history”, leading his men to victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. His former family home on the northeast coast of Sicily overlooking the Bay of Giardini Naxos is on the market, complete with impressive Mount Etna views. The sale of this grand castle, visited by King George, Queen Mary, Prince George, and Princess Victoria in 1925, is being handled by Engel & Völkers.
Additionally, this striking historic property in Taormina is listed – ideally located on a hilltop, looking out to the water. The characterful villa was also once owned by the family of Admiral Nelson and is listed with Taormina Immobiliare Srl.
Brimming with history, they present rare opportunities to own residences previously lived in by one of “Britain’s most heroic figures”. Indeed, Admiral Nelson’s words, “England expects that every man will do his duty”, are frequently quoted, and monuments like Nelson’s Column in London’s Trafalgar Square were created in his honor.
For Sale in Taormina: Prestigious Castle & Historic Villa
Built in 1911 on a sprawling 52,000-square-meter plot of land, this 1,000-square-meter noble dwelling boasts far-reaching and forever unobstructed sea vistas. On the market for €15 million, it sits on three levels and has 14 rooms; there’s also a three-story guesthouse. Outside, the terraced grounds – created like an amphitheater – stretch to the outskirts of central Taormina.
Rich in history, the one-of-a-kind property features extraordinary archaeological artifacts, like a Roman tomb dating back to the 2nd century AD. Primely positioned, the castle looks out to Isola Bella, and the Greek Theatre of Taormina is also visible.
Wander around and take in the Tuscan Melilli stone columns, mullioned windows, bronze statues, and the temple dedicated to Pan, the god of the wild, shepherds, and flocks. In short, this is a unique chance to restore a castle to its former glory and enjoy the magic of Taormina.
Meanwhile, “The Falconara”, reportedly built by Admiral Nelson himself, is a 20-bedroom and 10-bathroom villa on a five-hectare lot overlooking the beautiful Bay of Giardini Naxos, 2,000 square meters from the sea. Constructed around 1780, there’s 950 square meters of space and three floors to explore, including the living area on the second story and the kitchen at the top, looking down to the internal courtyard. Capacious tropical gardens surround the price-on-request Falconara, and it’s within easy reach of Taormina’s center.
As an aside, this 751-square-meter villa that once belonged to Admiral Nelson’s former estates manager is also on the market in Taormina (price on application), with the sale being handled by Building Heritage – Forbes Global Properties.
Captivating Taormina
Taormina is an enchanting and exclusive spot, visited by the international jet set since the 50s, when actors, famous artists, and heads of state frequented the area. A protagonist of history, culture, and curious anecdotes, the hilltop town is also known for unspoiled natural landscapes and breathtaking outlooks, be it the glistening azure Ionian Sea or Mount Etna.
Scenically situated on the slopes of Monte Tauro between Catania and Messina, activities of interest include ambling along Corso Umberto, the main thoroughfare, exploring nearby coves and bays, and riding the cable car.
For more wow factor properties, take a look at Taormina’s historic villas.
