Sicilian Castle from 'The Godfather'
Francis Ford Coppola used this Neo-gothic, 19th century castle as a film location for the third instalment of the Godfather franchise, and the property’s buyer will own a piece of Hollywood history.
Built in 1800 for the noble Pennisi family of Floristella, the opulent castle is located in the coastal city of Acireale, just north of Catania in Sicily, Italy.
Built to house an extensive art collection, Baron Pennisi (his sculptural marble bust can be found at the front of the castle) hired the Palermo architect Giuseppe Matricolo to construct the eclectic mansion, comprising three two-storey residences and two two towers with Moorish-style battlements.
Inside, a striking three-arched portico crowns the monumental staircase, and ornate detailing, seen in coffered ceilings and ogival arches.
Its cathedral-like spaces are embellished with geometric patterns in gold and blue, accented by Byzantine-style furniture and paintings by Paul Pennisi.
Of architectural note on its own, the striking chapel features a starry-night ceiling and frescoes by the Italian painter Giuseppe Sciuti.
In its entirety, the castle has 22 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms, a library, an artist studio, and a wine cellar.
The 43,000 square foot property also features a unique positioning in the 2.1-acre park, built at a 50 degree angle to best admire its beauty.
The property has an enduring legacy beyond its Hollywood ties, having survived British bombings during WWII and the famous 1908 earthquake.
All photos belong to the listing agency.
