Property Description

Palazzo Virga – A historic property with a private garden to renovate in Isnello

Palazzo Virga is a beautiful historic property nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Isnello, complete with its own private garden, and ample space to make the most of its renovation. This enchanting residence enjoys a prime location within one of Italy’s most stunning natural parks, just moments away from the idyllic seaside town of Cefalù. It is in need of a full renovation and even restructuring in certain parts, but you’ll find this property well worth the investment.

Palazzo Virga’s rooftop garden features orange trees and grapevines, where you can cultivate your own plants and watch them thrive under the stunning Sicilian sunlight, amidst the breathtaking scenery.

This historic property was originally owned by Carmelo and Luigi Virga, two brothers who, in order to join the priesthood, had to offer a property of a certain value to the church. Palazzo Virga was later bought back from the church by the Virga family after the Italian Wars of Unification, when it was used to house refugees and likely some of Garibaldi’s army on their way to Messina. It was used as a residence from then until 1951.

Beyond its storied past it has some truly charming features. The house spans three floors and has plenty of space, promising ample potential for transformation when renovated to become an exceptional property.

The Property

Palazzo Virga boasts a generous 400 m2 footprint, rising to 500 m2 when including the rooftop garden on the first floor. Upon entering, you’re welcomed into a spacious garage, whose versatility allows for endless possibilities—it could serve as a private parking space, a quaint restaurant or café, a home gym, or be transformed into whatever suits your vision best. It is also inhabited by a classic Fiat 500c Giardinetta ’54, echoing the building’s historic charm. This enchanting Italian car is also available for an optional purchase along with the property at an additional cost of €5000.

Following the switchback staircase, you are greeted by an open room ideal for renovation into a spacious kitchen/dining area. Double-doors open onto the shaded half of a long balcony, partially covered by an arched walkway, providing a cosy space for al-fresco dining and relaxation.

To the left, another set of double doors unveils a cosy well-lit study area, offering a peaceful retreat for work or contemplation, opening onto the sunny side of the extended balcony. Meanwhile, the right door leads to a bedroom where the bed melds into the wall, creating a cosy nook to sleep in in an otherwise spacious room.

The bedroom also grants access to a walkway leading to the tranquil rooftop garden adorned with your own flourishing orange trees and grapevines. Picture lazy Spring Sunday mornings where you can immerse yourself in the serenity of the breathtaking Sicilian countryside, right at your doorstep.

Another flight of stairs leads you to the attic, an expansive space in need of complete restructuring, but further adding to the untapped potential of the rest of the property.

Surroundings

Nestled in the rugged landscape of Northern Sicily’s Madonie National Park, the ancient village of Isnello boasts a history as old as time itself, with origins dating back as far as the prehistoric period. The sleepy village sits on top of a hilly landscape 530 metres above sea-level, providing a fresh breeze to counter the hot Sicilian summers; perfect for someone considering moving to Sicily to relax in the countryside.

Isnello also has fantastic panoramic views of the surrounding nature. In fact, if you manage to find this hidden gem, in amongst the nature there is a viewpoint with park benches and a small book exchange cabinet where you can sit down with a beautiful view and read books left by others, highlighting the sense of trust and community inherent in a quiet village of only 1500 people.

The building itself is situated on the cobbled street ‘Via Carmelo Virga’ – named after the owner of this very property centuries ago! You will find everything you need is within a 5-minute walk of the building. Around the corner you will find a Butcher’s and a Bakery for your everyday needs, there are plenty of bars, cafés, and ice cream parlours, and the minimarket on the other side of town is only a 5-minute walk away.

If you fancy a day at the beach, a 40-minute drive north down the meandering roads of the Madonie will take you to Cefalù, unspoiled by tourism yet one of the most beautiful seaside towns on the island. The great Sicilian capital Palermo, with its fascinating history, grand theatres, and iconic street food, is only 80 minutes away.

Potential

The potential of Palazzo Virga is truly remarkable, however, realising Palazzo Virga’s full potential will require dedication and investment to make this house a home once again.

While the building requires extensive restructuring and renovation, one look at this property will show you its undeniable charm, and promise and will leave you convinced that the payoff of renovating your own property in Sicily will be well worth the investment.

Beginning with the attic, a complete overhaul is essential, alongside the task of insulating the roof: a necessity as the last renovation of this area dates back to 1985. During these renovations in the ’80s, regrettably, much of the façade’s original stonework was concealed beneath layers of cement. However, once brought back into view, these ancient stones will be restored to their natural beauty, adding a timeless elegance to Palazzo Virga’s exterior once again.

In addition to the structural upgrades, Palazzo Virga will require the plumbing and electrical systems to be refitted, ensuring modern functionality and efficiency throughout the residence. The restoration will also entail the replacement of windows and doors, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and security of the property.

While preliminary estimates project that the restructuring, renovations, and refurbishments of Palazzo Virga may require an investment of approximately €200,000, rest assured that this endeavour holds tremendous potential for long-term value; and should you decide to, we will help you every step of the way. If you’ve ever dreamt of buying your own property and breathing new life into it in sunny south Italy, this could be the perfect choice for you.

With its rich historical significance, beautiful garden, and prime location, Palazzo Virga presents an opportunity not just for restoration, but for a savvy investment that promises to yield substantial returns for whoever decides to write its next chapter.