This $5.99M Spanish villa in Glendale was the city’s first historic home — and Mario Lopez lived here

The first home ever added to Glendale’s historic registry — a gorgeous 1929 Spanish Revival estate once owned by TV personality Mario Lopez — is back on the market for $5,995,000.

Known as Lorelei, the hillside property was designed by Peter Damm, the inventor of the armored car. Perched high above the city with sweeping 380-degree views, the home blends Old Hollywood pedigree with a decade of careful updates Lopez completed during his ownership.

Lopez bought the eight-bedroom estate in 2010 for $1.94 million, transformed its interiors and outdoor spaces into a resort-style retreat, and sold it in 2023 for $4.55 million, our sources tell us.

Now, the storied property is listed by Craig Strong and Nancy Gerber of Compass and ready for its next chapter.

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A gated compound with a Spanish-style main home, guest, and pool house

Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass

Set on more than half an acre, the gated compound includes the main house, a guest house, pool house, and cabana. Every corner of Lorelei reflects its cinematic Spanish Revival character, updated for modern living.

Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass

8 Bedrooms, 11 baths, and 7,700+ square feet of historic living

Offering a generous 7,711 square feet of living space — with just as much Spanish charm as its exteriors — the 1929-built home sits on a 0.69-acre lot and offers 8 bedrooms and 11 baths.

Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass

The home has a grand entry with tray ceilings, Venetian plaster, and marble floors

The foyer sets the tone with a tray ceiling trimmed in crown molding, Venetian plaster walls, and trellis-patterned black-and-white marble floors. Arched doorways lead into the home’s formal living spaces.

Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass

380-Degree city, mountain, and ocean views from its hilltop perch

Views of downtown L.A., the San Gabriel Mountains, and Burbank all stretch out below — and on clear days, even the Pacific Ocean appears on the horizon. Nearly every major room takes full advantage of the views.

Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass

Living spaces filled with light and original details

The formal living room is framed by tall arched windows and a dramatic chandelier, while the adjacent family room centers on a hand-carved stone fireplace, preserving the home’s 1920s warmth.

Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass

Chef’s kitchen with a breakfast nook and handcrafted accents

The kitchen blends modern appliances with vintage details, including custom tilework and a cozy breakfast nook positioned to catch the morning sun.

Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass

The dining room is framed by wrought-iron gates and arched openings

Perfect for intimate dinners or large gatherings, the formal dining room combines Spanish artistry with Hollywood-era grandeur.

Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass

Primary suite with balcony, walk-in closet, and spa bath

This private retreat includes a balcony with commanding views, a walk-in closet, and an opulent bath with a soaking tub, oversized rain shower, and adjacent office or nursery.

Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass

Spiral staircase leads to private gym and dance studio

A secluded wellness area tucked away from the main living spaces adds a personal touch, perfect for workouts or creative pursuits.

Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass

Wine cellar and vintage card room with roaring ’20s charm

The stone-walled cellar and adjacent game room recall the glamorous parties of a century ago — spaces designed for intimate gatherings that feel frozen in time.

Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass

Guest house, pool house, and staff quarters for added privacy

The one-bedroom guest house includes a full kitchen and living room, while the pool house doubles as a staff suite or office.

Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass

Resort-style pool, terraces, and cabana with full chef’s kitchen

The outdoor spaces function like a private resort, featuring a pool and spa, dining terraces, and a cabana outfitted with a chef’s kitchen, built-in heaters, TVs, and even a beer tap.

Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass

The house’s historic designation brings Mills Act property tax benefits

As Glendale’s first historic registry property, Lorelei qualifies for the Mills Act, which can deliver significant tax savings while protecting its architectural heritage.

Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass
Photo credit: Wayne Ford / Compass

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The post This $5.99M Spanish villa in Glendale was the city’s first historic home — and Mario Lopez lived here appeared first on Fancy Pants Homes.

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