Mussolini’s 130-year-old seaside home sold for €1.2m, now owned by Italian council

ROME, April 5 — The former seaside summer residence of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini has been sold for €1.2 million and is now owned by the local council, municipal officials confirmed.

Known as Villa Mussolini, the 130-year-old property sits along the seafront promenade in the Adriatic resort town of Riccione. Mayor Daniela Angelini described the acquisition as a “forward-looking decision.”

The villa had previously been owned by a savings bank foundation but was already being used by the council as a cultural and exhibition space. Authorities also noted past concerns that the property could fall into the hands of Mussolini sympathisers.

“Riccione does not erase its complex history but chooses to confront it critically through culture,” Angelini said.

Although the sale was completed several days ago, it drew little public attention. Despite past debates over its name, the municipality plans to retain “Villa Mussolini.”

Built around 1890 in a style typical of Adriatic holiday homes, the villa was purchased by Mussolini in 1934 and used as a summer residence. After World War II, it became state property before later being transferred to the foundation.

Mussolini’s legacy remains controversial in Italy, where some supporters still exist, including within political circles linked to the ruling Brothers of Italy party led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. In some areas, Mussolini is still listed as an honorary citizen, while neo-fascist groups continue to perform the banned “Roman salute” at rallies. — Bernama-dpa