Opulent Italianate Mansion Decked Out in 24K Gold Is Listed in Sarasota for $26.4 Million—Complete With a Wishing Well, Turkish Bath, and Boat Dock

An eye-popping, Italian Renaissance-inspired, waterfront mansion offering over-the-top amenities, including 24-karat gold accents, a wishing well, and a Turkish bath, has just hit the market in Sarasota for $26.4 million.

The extraordinary dwelling, known as Villa Meraviglia (meaning "wonder villa"), spans nearly 10,700 square feet, every inch of it outfitted with top-of-the-line design details using the highest quality materials sourced from around the world.

Impressive details include the hand-painted frescoes, pecky cypress ceilings, imported roof tiles, and handcrafted bronze—although these are rivaled by the spectacular views that can be enjoyed by almost every space in the property.

"Everywhere the eye lands, there is something to totally marvel at," says listing agent Dianne Anderson, of Compass Florida. "There are so many amazing finishes and architectural details, but it is also a very warm and inviting home with sweeping bayfront views."

Built in 1992 on 1.22 acres overlooking Roberts Bay, the four-bedroom Oyster Bay estate was inspired by grand villas on the shores of Lake Como in Italy.

"As you approach the home, there are gold-leaf details on the wrought-iron gate, which set the tone for the Italian villa," Anderson says. "When you walk in the front door, you are captured by the views, the floors, the lighting, fixtures, and ceilings. It's just incredible."

Other opulent details found throughout the 10,697-square-foot interior include Venetian plaster walls, custom millwork "gilded in 24-karat gold," Italian imports, a tiled Turkish bath, and marble floors.

The residence last traded hands in 1990 for $700,000—and Anderson notes that it is a home meant for long-term enjoyment, having been designed to stand the test of time.

"It was built for permanence to be here forever," she says. "There are 100-year-old Chicago brick pavers and Pennsylvania fieldstone. There are so many layers of texture and structure to the property."

Anderson says the sellers reimagined the residence over a five-year period, from 2012 to 2017.

"It was a collaboration between the sellers and the architect to help bring their vision to life," she notes.

Anderson says some of her favorite details can be found in the outdoor living space.

"There are layered, sweeping terraces that look out onto the pool area," she says. "There is a beautiful mosaic design that was inspired by the Versace Mansion and a stunning poolside kitchen."

The coastal property offers direct access to the Gulf Coast and boasts "year-round stunning sunsets" over the resort-style mosaic-tiled pool, octagonal pavilion, and wishing well.

"Oyster Bay is a very sought-after location," Anderson says. "It's such a unique piece of property and a very special location with an estate to marvel at overlooking the bay. It's extremely private and also located on a cul-de-sac."

Anderson says the sellers hope to find a buyer who will love and appreciate the property as much as they do.

"When you walk inside the home, it's hard not to fall in love," she says. "The entire experience of the property is the biggest draw. It's a modern Renaissance estate with a coastal location."

The spacious lot with 146 feet of bay frontage also has a private boat dock with lifts.

"There are a number of terraces, including off the second and third floors, that would be a fabulous place for morning coffee," Anderson says.

"In the back of the property, there is a poolside sunken kitchen and warm space with seating. There are additional pockets to sit around the pool area and a beautiful hammock space that is ideal for gathering and enjoying the outdoors."

While the property has been used as a primary residence for the sellers, Anderson believes it may serve as a secondary property for the next buyer.

"For a European buyer or someone who has more than one property, they may use it as a second home, but it will be hard for them to leave it once they are there," she notes.