Spanish royal family home in Tampa, built for former Yankees star, listed for $6M

Villa di Grotto, an estate at 16814 Avila Blvd., Tampa, is now available for sale at $5.95 million.

The home — originally commissioned by New York Yankees baseball star Jorge Posada — is currently owned by a member of the Spanish royal family, according to Premier Sotheby’s International Realty listing.

The custom build by Windstar Homes is marketed by Jose Cardenas of Premier Sotheby's International Realty’s South Tampa office. Owned by a count of the royal court of Spain, Villa di Grotto is inside Avila Golf and Country Club, a guard-gated community in Tampa Bay.

"It is more than just a home," the news release from Sotheby's says. "It is a profound showcase of architectural excellence. … The residence seamlessly blends sophistication and natural beauty, offering captivating views of a serene lake and the pristine golf course."

Sprawled across 2 generous acres, there is ample space for expansion and hosting events, Sotheby's says. Recent updates have added the conveniences of modern living, including "new smart home technology," allowing control of the entire property, Sotheby's says.

The home contains 8,970 square feet and sits on a 2-acre lot. It has six bedrooms, six bathrooms and three half-bathrooms. It also has an in-home theater, adjacent to a billiard room with a full bar.

The backyard has an outdoor kitchen, a swimming pool, a grotto with a spa and a waterfall. There's also a half-court basketball court, and the home backs up to the Avila golf course.

"Villa di Grotto represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of history where modern opulence and exclusivity intertwine in a harmonious symphony," says Cardenas.

Premier Sotheby's International Realty is headquartered in Naples and employs more than 1,400 sales professionals in 40 locations throughout Florida and North Carolina.