Originally built in 1532 and surrounded by fields and woodland, The House formed the original part of the Borgo Inferiore of the medieval village of Strevi. The House began life as the summer residence for the Count of Genoa and Ashley is only the 5th owner in nearly 500 years.

Strevi is between Turin, the capital city of Piedmont to the north and Genoa on the Ligurian coast to the south west. Turin is known for its refined architecture and cuisine. The Alps rise to the northwest of the city. Stately baroque buildings and old cafes line Turin's boulevards and grand squares such as Piazza Castello and Piazza San Carlo.

Genoa is a major European port city and the capital of northwest Italy's Liguria region. It's known for its central role in maritime trade over many centuries. Christopher Columbus is Genovese. In the old town stands the Romanesque Cathedral of San Lorenzo, with its black-and-white-striped facade and frescoed interior.

To the west lie the celebrated towns of Alba, known for its white truffles and the famous Festa di Tartufo as well as Asti, both within Monferrato known as one of the most important wine districts of Italy.