A home that doubles as a trove of medieval and religious artifacts has been listed for sale in San Francisco's Portola Drive, sparking interest in its unique interiors and equally fascinating late owner. The property, which has been a personal museum of the Cuban-born Roman Catholic priest and avid collector, the Rev. Guillermo Rodriguez, entered the market with an asking price of $1,195,000, according to a listing on Redfin.
This three-bedroom Spanish-Mediterranean house, filled with everything from stained glass to ornate bathroom fixtures and suits of armor, comes from a man whose story is as intriguing as his collection. Described as a Renaissance man who could speak six languages and was a master artist and painter, Rodriguez didn't only amass artifacts but also created them, often bringing back pieces from Europe to add to his collection. According to ABC7 News, Rodriguez was remembered not only for his extensive service in the Archdiocese of San Francisco but also for his remarkable personal motto: "The greatest sin of all is wasting time."
Charles Mader, the real estate agent handling the sale, was quoted in the San Francisco Chronicle, describing the property as "probably the most interesting house I have ever sold." The home's decor, reflective of Rodriguez's humor and zest for life, is reported to have left visitors in awe. From a suit of armor holding a roll of toilet paper to a golden, velvety couch reminiscent of the 1970s, the house is less a living space and more a walk through centuries past.