Carlo Ponti, Sophia Loren’s late husband, promised to give her the most beautiful home in the world after they married, and he might have done just that. Now, the beautiful home is up for sale for a staggering £17 million!

Before moving into their iconic 50 room mansion, the Italian producer lived in a Roman villa that was frequented by film stars of the era. The luxury villa that he and Loren shared is 1,300 square meters and just 10 minutes from the Colosseum. It is listed by luxury real estate company Lionard.

The villa is located in the Appian Way Park, one of the city’s most beautiful and prestigious areas. It is surrounded by a centuries old park and has extravagant features and elements that date back to 2,000 years.

The estate is composed of a two-story main villa and another independent outbuilding. The two properties can be bought together or separately. The park is also home to a heated swimming pool, garage, and several apartments.

The main villa was built in the 19th century on the ruins of a basalt quarry which was used from 312 BC. It has been modified several times over the years. The park surrounding the villa covers 1.5 hectares and features tall trees and spacious lawns.

There are three accesses to the main villa. The main living quarters, accessible via a lift, is composed of five bedrooms, each with their own bathroom, and a library complete with a winter garden.

Sophia and Carlo met when Sophia was just 14 years old and competing in a beauty contest. She didn’t win the contest, but she caught the attention of Carlo who was 22 years her senior. They married seven years later.

She was nicknamed Sofia Lazzaro as it was joked that her stunning beauty could have raised Lazarus from the dead. Unlike any of her peers who jumped from husband to husband, Sophia and Carlo remained married until his death in 2007.

When asked if she would ever marry again she replied, “No, never again. It would be impossible to love anyone else.”

 What an amazing tale of true love. Be sure to share this heartwarming story with your family and friends.