A rare address, in one of Italy’s most evocative settings

Nestled in the enchanting medieval village of Castell’Arquato, Casa Illica is the birthplace of the celebrated opera librettist Luigi Illica. This distinguished independent villa represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of Italian cultural heritage, seamlessly blending history, elegance, and refined living. Dating back to the Liberty period, the property spans four levels and was meticulously restored in 2008. For a time, it operated as an exclusive boutique relais, a testament to its unique charm and hospitality potential. Accessed from Via Sforza Caolzio, the entrance opens into a luminous living area, where large panoramic windows frame breathtaking views over the garden and the rolling valley beyond. This elegant space also features an open-plan kitchen, designed for both conviviality and style. On this level, three bedrooms, two doubles and one single, each benefit from their own en suite bathroom, offering comfort and privacy. A graceful staircase adorned with a finely crafted wrought-iron balustrade leads to the upper floor. Here, a welcoming living space conceals a discreet kitchen within bespoke cabinetry and opens onto a charming veranda with sweeping panoramic views. This floor hosts two refined suites, a spacious master suite with study area and generous en-suite bathroom, a second suite comprising a double bedroom with dressing area, a single bedroom, and a bathroom. Below the entrance level, two additional floors reveal the home’s historical soul. The first features the original period kitchen along with ancillary rooms, while the garden level offers a laundry room, technical area, and a vast multifunctional space, adaptable to a variety of uses. The outdoor areas are equally captivating. A courtyard extends into a panoramic terrace overlooking the garden, an idyllic setting for enjoying cool summer evenings. A few steps lead down to the lush, private garden, where a secluded jacuzzi area invites relaxation. From here, a small stone stairway ascends to a charming rock grotto, home to a devotional statue of the Madonna, adding a poetic and spiritual touch to the property. The villa’s refined interiors are distinguished by exquisite Venetian terrazzo flooring and a sophisticated aesthetic inspired by Japanese minimalism. This rare fusion of styles creates a harmonious and timeless atmosphere, making Casa Illica a true architectural gem and giving it a unique aesthetic identity. Casa Illica is more than a residence, it is a piece of history, an elegant retreat, and a unique investment opportunity in one of Italy’s most evocative historic settings.