France: This is one of the most expensive houses on Earth.

The Les Cedres Villa on the French Riviera is considered one of the most expensive residences in the world. For the amount estimated for this 187-year-old estate covering 14 hectares, one could buy 10 tons of gold, 100 of the most expensive yachts, or 50 elite cars! This stunning property hit the market in 2017 thanks to Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A, part of the Campari group, and in 2019 it was purchased by Ukrainian billionaire Rinat Akhmetov.

Historical context

Villa Les Cèdres was built in 1830 for the King of Belgium, and therefore it can rightfully be considered a royal estate. Its light salmon and sandy hues perfectly reflect the heritage of the dynasty, influenced by the Kingdom of Sardinia, which controlled the area of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat at that time. About 20 years after the completion of the construction, the mayor of Villefranche-sur-Mer acquired the estate and established an olive farm on its grounds.

The property of the Manieri-Lapostole family

In 1924, the estate passed to the Manieri-Lapostole family, who enjoyed it for a long time.90 years...planting exotic plants that make the space even more impressive. Orange bigarades, used to produce the famous Grand Marnier liqueur, also grew on this fertile land. The family took care of the estate until Campari bought the parent company of Grand Marnier and put Villa Les Cèdres up for sale.

Description of one of the most expensive residences in the world

Stretched out on1,669 square metersThe rooms of the house include:

• 14 bedrooms;
• Olympic swimming pool;
• a library with wooden finishes and 3,000 books on flora and naturalism, including a botanical codex from 1640;
• an artificial pond with Amazon water lilies;
• bronze statue of Athena;
• ballroom with chandeliers;
• stables capable of accommodating 30 horses;
• spacious halls for receptions;
• 19th-century portraits in exquisite frames.

Trees such as cedars, palms, and olives are also of great importance, as they hold immense value on their own. In addition to the numerous luxurious elements, the location of the Villa Les Cedres, situated on the coast of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, greatly contributes to its grandeur. From the highest points, there are breathtaking views of Villefranche-sur-Mer, the viaduct near the medieval town of Eze, as well as the stunning Alps that separate France and Italy.

The popularity of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat has become a popular vacation spot for many famous historical figures, such as:

• Charlie Chaplin
• Elizabeth Taylor;
• Winston Churchill.