Castello del Lago: 1920s Spanish-Style Estate in the Hollywood Hills
Castillo del Lago is the ultimate trophy home in Hollywood Hills, tucked beneath the Hollywood sign and offering 360° views across Los Angeles.
Built in 1926 by architect John DeLario for oil baron Patrick Longden, the historic property was one of the first to be built in Hollywoodland, a 1920s Storybook-style real estate development just above the town of Hollywood.
The Hollywoodland sign in the 1930s. Everett/Shutterstock
The developers advertised the properties by constructing the Hollywoodland sign; the last 4 letters were removed by the local chamber of commerce after World War II.
In the 1930s, Castillo del Lago was the home of notorious gangster Bugsy Siegel and rumored to be used as an illegal casino.
A landmark in Hollywood architecture, the storied estate has been featured in several leading magazines and, to add to its pedigree, in the 1990s it was owned by Madonna.
The 10,513 sq ft mansion for sale offers 9 bedrooms, 6 baths, and an abundance of architectural highlights, including coffered and beamed ceilings, custom wrought iron features and Spanish archways, terracotta flooring and vibrant period tile, and grand fireplaces.
Highlights include a two-storey formal living room with French doors opening out onto the terrace, and a vintage wood paneled elevator that goes up to one of two towers on the Spanish-style estate.
Nestled in 2.7 acres above Lake Hollywood, the lush grounds comes with a classic lap pool, fountains, and gardens with roses, sculpted hedges and citrus trees.
All photos belong to the listing agency.
