From ancient castles to opulent palazzos, seaside villas, and even a lighthouse, the government will put around 400 properties under the hammer in an attempt to clear €2.3 trillion in public debt.

Buildings to be auctioned off include the former convent of San Salvador in Venice, an apartment in the picturesque village of Anversa degli Abruzzi, a two-storey villa in the heart of Bologna, a Renaissance palazzo in Piacenza and a four-storey home in the historic centre of Bergamo.

Up to 93 properties can already be bought online, and Italy’s state property agency has a detailed list of those available on its website with photos, descriptions and even virtual tours.

While most of the properties are going for millions, a few are more reasonably priced.

The first auction is scheduled to take place on October 16 and 17, with the second to follow in November.

It’s hoped that some of the properties, many of which are derelict, can be returned to their former splendour and used as commercial or tourist facilities.

Here are some of the properties up for sale:

Former convent of San Salvador, Venice

The most expensive property available to purchase is a former convent in the centre of Venice, featuring a courtyard and frescoed halls. Starting price: €28 million

Villa Camerata, Florence

A former noble residence set in the hilly countryside north-east of Florence. Starting price: €7.4 million.

Palazzina Magnani, Bologna

A two-storey villa located in Marconi, in the heart of Bologna. Starting price: €1.9 million

Palazzo Costa Ferrari, Piacenza

A renaissance-style palazzo in the northern city of Piacenza, which features three internal counrtyards. Starting price: €3.1 million

Lighthouse, Calabria

Built in 1923, this lighthouse is the last on the Ionian coast of Calabria, about 100 metres from the sea. Starting price: €309,000

Fort Barbarigo, Venice

This very unique plot of land comes with its own ruined fort, dating back to 1800 and currently belonging to the Italian navy. It forms part of the UNESCO-listed area of central Venice and its lagoon. Starting price: €690,000