Mintaro

Mintaro is a distinguished Italianate mansion located at 2137 Melbourne-Lancefield Road, Monegeetta, Victoria. Constructed in 1881 for Captain Robert Gardiner, the residence was designed by architect James Gall, reflecting the prosperity of the era. The property encompasses a 9.9-hectare estate, featuring a grand entrance hall, main staircase, and ten principal rooms, including a billiards room and cellar. The interior boasts original Renaissance-inspired decor, with painted themes of the arts, flowers, birds, farming, and nautical motifs, showcasing exceptional stenciling and marbling techniques. The grounds are adorned with mature oaks, cedars, monkey puzzles, pines, sequoias, and cypresses, offering a serene park-like setting. Mintaro's design was influenced by Osborne House, Queen Victoria's summer residence on the Isle of Wight. The mansion is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register, underscoring its historical and architectural significance.