Initially owned by the Guinness family and later used as a holiday residence by Winston Churchill, this Provençal mas eventually captivated Pablo Picasso with its charm. In 1961, the artist settled there after leaving his villa in Cannes’ Californie district, whose sea view had been spoiled by a new construction. After Picasso’s death in 1973, the house was occupied by his wife, then by his daughter, who ultimately sold it for more than €10 million.
In 2007, the property was acquired by a Dutch owner, who renamed it The Minotaur’s Lair in tribute to Picasso’s recurring obsession. He undertook extensive renovation works estimated at around €10 million, profoundly transforming the Provençal estate with the addition of a tennis court, an elevator, a spa, and other luxury amenities. Financial difficulties, however, prevented the completion of the project and ultimately forced him to put the mas up for auction.
Mougins – Contemporary Villa within an Exceptional Private Estate
Charming villa in a gated domain – an ideal pied-à-terre
Mougins – Confidential estate set at the heart of 2.8 hectares of preserved nature
Elegant Character Home in Mougins
Gated estate – Charming contemporary villa
Gated estate – Elegant contemporary villa
Gated estate – Contemporary villa with open views
Set on more than three hectares of land, this Provençal country house has been entirely renovated and modernized, notably through large bay windows offering splendid views over the Mediterranean Sea and the Estérel hills. With over 2,000 m² of living space and around a dozen bedrooms, the property also includes numerous outbuildings.
The memory of Pablo Picasso remains deeply present. In his former studio, paint-splattered furniture immerses visitors in the artist’s world, while a stone-carved mask on the corner of a pillar recalls the extraordinary genius who lived and created here.
Today, the historic Mas Notre-Dame-de-Vie has been acquired by Rayo Whitanage. This New Zealand businessman of Sri Lankan origin—already in discussions for over a year and whose previous acquisition attempt had failed—successfully purchased the prestigious property for €20.196 million. Based in New York and head of a real estate investment company founded with a Brunei prince, the buyer has one year to complete the financing.
The Dutch seller, who invested more than €20 million in the acquisition and renovation, expressed disappointment with the sale price. Indeed, Picasso’s legacy, the villa’s luxury amenities and generous volumes, and the enchanting setting of the French Riviera are unique attributes that, in his view, would justify a valuation of at least €30 million.
Magrey & Sons offers a wide selection of exclusive properties in Mougins, a haven of peace and beauty that has long inspired artists and continues to enchant those seeking refinement and tranquility.
Historic villa on the French Riviera