Welcome to Casa de la Torre, an extraordinary historical gem at 502 Pierce Street, Monterey. Built around 1851 by Francisco Pinto, the original holder of the land grant, this remarkable adobe residence graces a third-acre corner lot at Jefferson and Pierce Streets. As one of the few privately held historic adobe homes in the area, zoned for both residential and commercial use, it offers a rare opportunity to own a significant piece of Monterey's rich history. Casa de la Torre is celebrated within the Monterey Old Town National Historic Landmark district, and its storied past is documented in numerous renowned publications. Honored with the first Mills Act contract in Monterey County, it benefits from reduced property taxes, merging historical preservation with sound investment. The main house features a charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom layout with a loft, covering 1,735 square feet. A detached guest quarters adds an additional bedroom and bathroom, providing over 510 square feet, culminating in a total living space of 2,245 square feet. Monterey's iconic adobes, renowned for their unique sun-dried mud brick construction, offer natural insulation and a deep connection to the Spanish and Mexican periods. Casa de la Torre embodies this legacy, inviting you to make it your sanctuary. Inside, the residence is graced with magnificent wood beams that span the ceilings, capturing the eye and lending a sense of grandeur. The master fireplace anchors the great room, offering a warm embrace, while the refined light fixtures and artisanal door hardware echo a bygone era. Every detail, from the elegant shoe cleaner to the authentic doorbell at the entrance, speaks to the timeless sophistication and meticulous craftsmanship that define this historic adobe. In 1862, the adobe became home to Jose Remigio de la Torre, the youngest son of Spanish-born soldier Don Jose Joaquin de la Torre, a general under Governor Alvarado and Alcalde of Old Monterey. They raised their five children here, and it is reported that seven generations lived in the home over more than half a century, weaving their lives into its walls. In 1923, Katherine Osborne, Robert Louis Stevenson's daughter-in-law, recognized its historical value and purchased the adobe. From 1924 to 1954, it was the residence of local artist Myron Oliver, who was the president and a founding board member of the Carmel Art Association. Oliver raised his three children here and used the adobe as an art studio. He transformed the space by creating a grand arched window in the north wall, making the main room a well-lit artist's studio, and he tiled the main roof in the Mission Revival style. Oliver made substantial contributions to Monterey, including creating Friendly Plaza, founding the Monterey History and Art Association, and playing an instrumental role in the restoration of the Monterey Custom House, Colton Hall, and the Gutierrez Adobe. The 1960s brought renowned peninsula architect Will Shaw and his wife Mary Morse Shaw, who added architectural touches for entertaining. In 1986, Fremont Bank acquired the adobe to serve their elite clientele, and in 1999, James and Mary Bryant modernized the kitchen and bathroom, preserving the building's historical integrity. In 2015, Julie Kenner purchased Casa de la Torre, enhancing its charm with a greenhouse room, solar panels, and gardens featuring a chicken coop, bee box, fruit trees, and grapevines. The sunlight graces the gardens beautifully, bringing them to life with vibrant colors and the aroma of history in every breeze. Hanging pots surround the patios, adding to the home's picturesque setting. The solarium in the secondary unit adds functionality and allure, ensuring the property's historical essence remains intact. Casa de la Torre stands as a testament to Monterey's rich architectural and cultural heritage. Offering an enchanting glimpse into the past, this property is a must-see for those seeking to own a piece of history, where the timeless elegance and historical allure of historic adobe architecture converge.