built in 1920 by barão j. smith de vasconcellos, castelo de itaipava was designed by architects Lúcio costa and fernando valentine in the style of a renaissance castle.

the building was constructed over a five year period using a magnificent array of materials brought in from europe - the stone blocks came from portugal, the slate roof from france, the carrara marble from italy, the rosewood doors and windows have english fittings and the stained glass windows came from austria.

this impressive castle, situated in beautiful grounds, comprises 42 rooms including 19 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, several lounges, a the family library containing rare books, a music room and halls - the building boasts two towers, one tower which is a copy of the baptistery of the cathedral of saint peter, several terraces, servants' quarters and galleries.