Johnny Depp's gaze set on $4M historic Italian castle: Report
Hollywood actor Johnny Depp is reportedly considering buying a historic $4M castle in Montalto Dora, Italy. The 60-year-old star currently residing and working in Europe, after his 2022 defamation trial with ex-spouse Amber Heard, recently visited the ancient fortress situated on Mount Crovero's slopes in Turin. This visit coincided with his directorial work on a biopic about Italian painter and sculptor Amedeo Modigliani, as reported by Corriere delle Sera.
Castle's historic charm and extensive restoration
The castle, now on the market after extensive restoration, boasts medieval and Gothic architectural styles. Spanning over 22,000 sq ft, the property includes 11 bedrooms, 13 bathrooms, a cobblestone courtyard, and a chapel dating back to the 15th century. Fellow actor Riccardo Scamarcio, who is working with Depp on his current film project alongside Al Pacino, has frequently visited the castle and apparently recommended it as an investment to Depp.
Montaldo mayor expressed concern over Depp's potential purchase
Montaldo Dora's mayor, Renzo Galletto, has expressed concerns about Depp potentially buying the castle. "A celebrity buying a historic monument like the Montalto Dora castle would bring a lot of attention to the area, but we're not sure if it would be the right 'economic synergy' for the community," Galletto told The Post. He also highlighted that the residence is protected by Italian Cultural Heritage. To note, the village of Montalto Dora is inhabited by approximately 3,300 residents.
However, if Depp offers to buy, town won't dismiss
Further, mayor Galletto stated, "The castle is a Site of Community Interest, which means it comes with certain rules which have to be followed," he said, adding, "Building [anything new inside or out] would require a lot of approvals and permissions." Despite these concerns, he clarified that the town would not outright dismiss Depp if he proposed an offer. "The property is private and we [the town] will be absolutely neutral in any real estate sale," he affirmed.
An exciting addition to Depp's existing property portfolio
A source close to Depp confirmed that the actor would comply with all rules and regulations should he decide to purchase the castle. Notably, the Montalto estate offers a panoramic view of the Five Lakes Park in Ivrea and is situated in a region known for its significant geological and natural beauty. This potential purchase would add to Depp's existing property portfolio, which includes a Bavarian castle replica in West Hollywood and an 850-acre property in Somerset, England.
