This Historic $12.2 Million Italian Palazzo Has Centuries-Old Frescoes

Homes with views of Italy’s Lake Como are among the scenic area’s most prized, so it may seem counterintuitive to consider a residence without those vistas. Palazzo Odescalchi in the center of Como, however, offers a compelling reason to forgo a water view.

The historic home, situated between Via Rodari and Piazza Roma, dates to the 16^th and 17^th centuries and takes its name from a noble clan that included Pope Innocent XI, head of the Catholic Church in the late 1600s. Extensive conservation and restoration projects have preserved many original elements, while other parts of the property have been updated for modern tastes and comfort.

Walking through the estate is similar to visiting a museum. Many rooms have coffered wooden ceilings with intricate, brightly colored frescoes, while Baroque decorative elements adorn several of the formal entertaining spaces, including an imposing stone fireplace in the grand dining room. Even the staircases and hallways feature elaborate ceilings.

RELATED: This $17.3 Million Villa Is Next Door to Lake Como’s Legendary Villa d’Este

Spanning more than 21,000 square feet and equipped with an elevator, the palatial residence also includes more casual, contemporary living spaces, including a sleek kitchen with punchy yellow cabinetry and direct access to an outdoor dining area. There are a couple of casual dining spaces inside, too, along with whitewashed family rooms with warm wooden floors.

Fifteen bedrooms are paired with an equal number of bathrooms. Elsewhere are a billiards room, a wine cellar, a gym, and a cinema. 

The Como property is on the market for $12.2 million with Andrea Marchioro at Italy Sotheby’s International Realty. Another Como residence near the legendary Villa d’Este hotel came on the market earlier this month, this one offering lake views, for $17.3 million.

Click here to see all the photos of the Como residence.