I may have a thing for all things French, but may make an Italian exception--after all, who doesn't love the sound of a villa in Tuscany?
Villa Monticello was built by the counts of Orsolini at Avenza in 1766 as a small country retreat. In the late 19th century, it was acquired by French Dervillé family, who did some renovating by adding grand flights of steps at the front and back, as well as loggias (balconies or entrance porches) on three sides of the villa. Statues and fragments of ancient sculptures still adorn the main entrance, while marble vases and a marble gable were placed on the roof.
Today, Villa Monticello is owned by Marzia Vanelli Dazzi, who lives there with her husband and children.
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