A Tour through the Most Extravagant Homes in History

There is one thing we can count on as a constant throughout history: man is driven to succeed. Whether man’s goal is to be the best caveman or hunter or the richest business man, success has always been a motivating factor. What is the best and most comfortable way to show off your success and wealth than to have a large and lavish home decorated with the finest art?

Historically throughout the world, those individuals with the most power, had the most extravagant homes and were the envy of all who saw. Here is a look at some of the most expensive and extravagant homes to date.

Antalia-Mumbai, India ($1 Billion)

This property is owned by Mukesh Ambani, the world’s forth richest man. Antalia, named after a mythical island, is the most expensive home ever in history, anywhere in the world. It took seven years to build this 400,000 square foot, twenty-seven story high home.
In addition to stunning views of the Arabian Sea, this home includes a theater, yoga studio, swimming pool, health club and three helicopter landing pads, among other amazing features. There is even an “ice room” with man-made snow. This is the most lavish residence, and all for a family of six.

Villa Leopolda- Cote d’Azur, France ($525 million)

This villa built in 1902 by King Leopold II of Belgium contains nineteen bedrooms in its vast 80,000 square feet. Also present is a bowling alley and multiple kitchens and sports courts. Bill Gates is said to have lived there at one point.

One Hyde Park, the Penthouse-London, England ($221 million)

This famous piece of real estate is owned by Rinat Akhmetov, the Ukraine’s richest man. The penthouse, known all over the world, has many necessary security features for its high profile residents. It has iris scanners, bullet proof windows, and an escape tunnel that leads to a nearby hotel.

Starwood Ranch-Aspen, Colorado ($135 million)

This 56,000 square foot mansion sits on 95 acres in Colorado. It is owned by former Saudi Arabian ambassador to the United States, Prince Bandar. It has fifteen bedrooms and sixteen bathrooms, horse stables, a swimming pool, and tennis courts.

Hearst Mansion- Beverly Hills, CA ($95 million)

Originally owned by William Randolph Hearst, this home is located in the hills of Beverly Hills just off of Sunset Boulevard and neighbors the estate of Tom Cruise. The home has a helicopter landing pad, a theater, a disco and three swimming pools. John F. Kennedy had his honeymoon here.

Italian Medieval Castle-Torino, Italy ($84 million)

This 39,000 square foot castle dates back to the 9th century A.D. This castle that can house up to 300 people was owned by King Arduino. It has thirty air conditioned bedrooms and forty-seven bathrooms and a heli-pad.

1016 Madison Avenue, NY, NY ($72 million)

Just a stroll away from Central Park, this residence is seven stories high and has its own elevator. At over 7,000 square feet, it is one of the most expensive and most valued apartments in New York City.

Kelli McDonald loves to host summer parties outdoors surrounded by friends and family. She also enjoys creating unique ideas for home storage to highlight the space rather than the clutter.