The heirs of former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi have sold his iconic Sardinian villa, Villa Certosa, to a member of the Qatari royal family, according to a statement from the family. The deal, finalized in late June 2026, ends years of speculation about the fate of the sprawling estate, which served as a symbol of Berlusconi's wealth and political power.
Details of the Sale
Villa Certosa, located on the northeast coast of Sardinia near Porto Rotondo, spans over 100 hectares and includes multiple buildings, private beaches, and extensive gardens. The property was a frequent venue for Berlusconi's political summits and celebrity gatherings. The buyer is Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani, a former prime minister of Qatar and a prominent international investor. The purchase price was not disclosed, but real estate experts estimate the villa could be worth over €100 million.
The Berlusconi family stated that the sale was part of a broader portfolio reorganization. "The heirs have decided to sell Villa Certosa to focus on other assets," the statement read. The villa had been on the market since 2024, attracting interest from several wealthy individuals and investment groups.
Impact and Legacy
The sale marks the end of an era for the Berlusconi family, who owned the property since the 1980s. Silvio Berlusconi, who died in 2023 at age 86, used the villa as a retreat and a stage for his political and personal life. The villa hosted numerous international leaders, including Vladimir Putin and George W. Bush, and was the site of controversial parties that often made tabloid headlines.
Local officials in Sardinia expressed mixed reactions. Some welcomed the investment, hoping it would boost tourism and the local economy. Others lamented the loss of a landmark tied to a prominent figure in Italian history. The Qatari sheik's acquisition is expected to maintain the property's exclusive status, with plans for private use.
Broader Context
This transaction is part of a trend of high-value property sales in Sardinia, driven by demand from Middle Eastern buyers. According to real estate analysts, the island's luxury market has seen a 20% increase in foreign purchases over the past year. The sale also highlights the ongoing financial restructuring of the Berlusconi family's holdings, which include media giant Mediaset and other assets.
