Villa Scalea
Nestled in the peaceful Piana dei Colli, Villa Scalea stands as a timeless testament to Palermo’s history. Surrounded by a vast park filled with botanical treasures from around the world — including two magnificent ficus magnolioide trees, among the largest in Europe — the villa has been the cherished home of the Lanza di Scalea family for generations.
The story of Villa Scalea begins in the late 17th century, when it was originally built as a church by the Jesuit Fathers of the Cassaro College. In the late 1700s, it was acquired by Prince Giuseppe Branciforte of Scordia, who transformed it into a splendid aristocratic residence.
In the early 20th century, under Giuseppe Lanza di Scalea — Mayor of Palermo from 1920 to 1924, Senator of the Kingdom, and a leading figure of his time — the villa became deeply woven into the fabric of our family’s life. Ever since, it has remained continuously inhabited, providing the backdrop for family celebrations, glittering receptions, elegant balls, and countless unforgettable moments shared with friends, distinguished guests, and historical figures alike..
Villa Scalea During a Private Event
Queen Mary and Mayor Giuseppe Lanza di Scalea walking around Villa Scalea
Among its most distinguished visitors were Queen Mary of England, King George V, and King Vittorio Emanuele III.
Equally memorable was the extended stay of Hollywood legend Burt Lancaster, who lived at Villa Scalea for several months alongside Francesco Lanza di Scalea. During that time, he immersed himself in Francesco’s aristocratic world — observing his gestures, speech, and mannerisms — to capture them with remarkable authenticity in his portrayal of the Prince of Salina in The Leopard. The result was a performance that left an indelible mark on the history of cinema.
Today, Villa Scalea still embodies the grace and elegance of its origins — a living testament to Sicily’s noble residences and a celebration of the island’s architectural and botanical splendor.
Over the years, Villa Scalea has also served as the setting for several iconic works of Italian cinema — including Vittorio De Sica’s Il Viaggio (1974), starring the incomparable Sophia Loren and Richard Burton, and Mario and the Magician (1994), directed by Klaus Maria Brandauer, which captured within its walls the subtle, ambiguous elegance of 1930s Italy.
Here, the photographs captures Vittorio De Sica at Villa Scalea during the shooting of Il Viaggio (1974).
Vittorio De Sica at Villa Scalea during the shooting of Il Viaggio (1974)
About Us
Above all, Villa Scalea is a home — a place lived in and loved. A place where our family has celebrated joyful moments, raised children, welcomed friends, and gathered memories for generations. It is the heart of our lives.
Today, Benedetta and Giulia, mother and daughter, care for it with passion and dedication. Every detail, every choice, every gesture of hospitality stems from a deep bond with this house — a place that feels profoundly our own.
With the recent restoration of Magnolia, the guesthouse nestled within the garden, Villa Scalea now opens its doors to travelers wishing to stay. More than a site of extraordinary historical and artistic value, it remains a living home — one that embodies and shares the true spirit of Sicilian beauty and hospitality.
Welcome to Villa Scalea. But above all, welcome home.
