Although every house is meant to be lived in, not every house can be bought.
Some iconic houses all over the world are not meant to be bought but are to be shown for their aesthetic beauty, architecture, and charm. They offer a glimpse into the lives of their former inhabitants.
Here are five houses you can only visit but never buy
1. The White House (Washington, D.C., USA)
The White House is arguably one of the most popular houses in the world. It is the home of the current President of the United States.
It is owned by the government of the United States and managed by the National Parks Agency of the United States. While no one can buy it, there are guided tours of parts of it for visitors because of its rich history and architecture.
2. The Palace of Versailles (Versailles, France)
This palace was once the luxurious residence of the French aristocracy, like King Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette.
The Palace of Versailles is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a public museum. Though everyone can explore the magnificent gardens, the Hall of Mirrors, and the great rooms, none can lay claim to this architectural wonder as their own.
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3. The Biltmore Estate (Asheville, North Carolina, USA)
Currently a museum, the Biltmore Estate, built in 1895, the biggest privately owned residence in the United States, was built by George Washington Vanderbilt II.
Tours are provided of its 250 rooms, which include a banquet hall, indoor pool, and bowling alley; nevertheless, the estate is still owned by the family and is not for sale.
Their website states that the building is a monument and isn’t up for sale.
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4. Casa Batlló (Barcelona, Spain)
One of the most iconic structures in Barcelona is Casa Batlló, an architectural marvel created by Antoni Gaudí.
The house is open to guests who can explore its inventive rooms and strange architecture. It is known for its modernist style and artistic design. Still off-limits to buyers, it is a preserved historic landmark.
5. Villa La Rotonda (Vicenza, Italy)
Villa La Rotonda, created by Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio, is a magnificent illustration of Palladian architecture.
Visitors can explore its symmetrical design and lovely interiors on specific days, but this architectural masterpiece is not for sale and remains a part of Italy’s cultural legacy.
Many of these types of houses exist in other parts of the world; they are usually vast castles and houses that preserve history.