The villa has known some remarkable owners. In 1801 the house was acquired by Gian Battista Sommariva, famous politician, businessman and patron of arts. With his collection and embellishments of the property, he made the Villa a 'must' for the Grand Tour.

In 1843 Vila Carlotta was bought by Princess Marianne of Nassau, Albert’s of Prussia (unhappy) wife. She in turn gave it to her daughter Carlotta, who was married to Prince Georg II of Saxen-Meiningen.

During WW I and thereafter, the property was confiscated and passed on to the state. Thanks to the private initiative of the lawyer Giuseppe Bianchini, Count of Lenno, and several other prominent figures, the foundation Ente Villa Carlotta was created to protect and promote the Villa Carlotta and Centro Lago di Como, in Italy and abroad.

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