Homes with History: Romantic Villa in Verona, Italy

The nymphaeum's columns have certainly remained strong and steadfast over the years. The cracks in their surfaces are like badges of honor, true testaments to the passage of time.

From the top of the nymphaeum, one can look out over the circular driveway and see to the other side of the garden. Along the way, tall trees provide shade and privacy.

Be still, my heart! With a weathered facade, gorgeous green shutters and a double staircase, this Renaissance-era villa truly looks like something out of a Shakespearean play.

As if the villa weren't romantic enough, a stone fountain in the front yard only enhances its charm. On pleasant days, the feature provides soothing ambient sound and becomes an idyllic spot to read.

Notice how the statue in the center of the fountain draws the eye straight down the tree-lined avenue. Whether they're arriving or just departing, guests will surely enjoy the sight.

Believe it or not, but the villa is only a 10-minute drive from the city center and a quick 20-minute trip from the airport. Gravel, meanwhile, was a smart choice for the driveway, as its earthy hue complements all the gorgeous greenery.

Even without a balcony, it's easy to imagine Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet delivering their soliloquies outside of this Renaissance-era villa in Verona, Italy. As they ascend the stairs, guests will feel as though they are walking into the next Act.

Symmetry shines across the villa's exterior, with a double staircase and sash windows on either side of the entrance. A closer look reveals fresh, flowering vines as well.

The back of the villa is just as lovely as the front, with large archways and soaring columns. Windows fill the interior with natural light and offer a glimpse of the courtyard from inside.

Directly across from the villa, an atrium encloses the courtyard. Notice how the structure's stone archways and tall columns complement the architecture of the main house.

At the far end of the courtyard, a stone building with a tower evokes thoughts of an ancient castle. When paired with the atrium's carefully preserved columns, the space seems to transcend time.

Imagine walking through the courtyard, listening to the hum of the afternoon and enjoying spectacular views of the villa and atrium. The courtyard's gravel paths not only make this possible, but seem to strongly encourage it as well.

We've said it before and we'll say it again: this villa looks like something out of a dream. Whether they're looking out from the stone balcony or descending the double staircase, the owners will feel like royalty among such enchanting surroundings.

Below the balcony, tucked just out of view, is a hidden hallway that leads to the indoor swimming pool. Vines climb the stairs and make each feature seem all the more alluring.

From the moment they enter this corridor, guests will find themselves speaking in hushed whispers. Two statues bearing the likeness of ancient Romans stand guard at the door, granting access only to those worthy of entering the pool.

The afternoon sun casts a golden glow across the villa's exterior, making it seem all the more romantic. Can't you just picture two sweethearts proclaiming their love for each other here?

It's true: there's something beautiful around every inch of this courtyard. From the ivy-covered wall to the stone steps and view of the villa, this outdoor space is simply stunning.

On sunny days, the atrium offers the perfect amount of shade. If the owners wanted, they could even outfit the space with a table and chairs for dining al fresco.

The atrium's stone columns frame the villa like a painting. A bench sits directly in front of the vignette and so encourages visitors to pause and admire it.

Through the atrium, the owners and their guests can easily access an alley that leads to the back of the property. Here, wood doorways and cobblestones help put history right at their fingertips.

Through the alley and past an iron gate, guests will soon arrive at the back of the atrium. Two stone benches offer a place for visitors to sit and experience a new view of the property.