Jaklin Riegelmann & Casambiente - Property Consultants & Estate AgentsReal estate for sale - Country houses
16th century estate near Florence with panoramic views, Italian garden and historic outbuildings
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Florentine countryside, a short distance from the historic city of Florence, this magnificent 16th century estate embodies timeless elegance. Surrounded by panoramic views, the property comprises an Italian garden, historic outbuildings, an olive grove and centuries of aristocratic heritage.
Approached via a picturesque tree-lined driveway through an oak wood, this extraordinary estate covers approximately 2,000 m². At its heart is the main villa, built in the late 1500s and owned for generations by a noble Florentine family. This centrepiece is complemented by a collection of residential and agricultural buildings which together form a charming hamlet.
The main villa has a traditional rectangular floor plan and features a harmonious blend of historic architecture and functionality.
The ground floor offers generous living spaces that flow seamlessly from one to the next, including grand living rooms, a formal dining room overlooking the gardens, a kitchen, laundry room and additional service areas. The first floor offers a second kitchen, utility rooms, another living room, two large bedrooms and two bathrooms. The second floor houses the main accommodation with five spacious bedrooms, two bathrooms and a stunning panoramic loggia offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Florentine countryside. The villa's original cellars remain intact, providing storage and a window into the history of the property.
The property includes several outbuildings of character and charm, such as a 17th century private chapel, perfect for moments of quiet reflection or for hosting intimate ceremonies, a caretaker's house, conveniently located adjacent to the main villa, two farmhouses, one adapted for residential use and the other for agricultural purposes, as well as a barn and other outbuildings.
The property is set on three levels of terraces with a beautiful Italian garden. Features include a central circular basin framed by lush hanging gardens and intricate box hedges, an original orchard, niches decorated with Renaissance statues and 16th century landscaping features, an historic spring which continues to supply water to the gardens and contains an original stone frigidarium with benches, and a charming 'burraia', the estate's former butter making and storage building.
The estate covers 24 hectares of land with olive groves producing high quality olive oil, as well as pastures and woodland providing privacy and a tranquil natural environment.
Although the estate retains its architectural splendour, it is in need of renovation to restore its full glory. A restoration in the 1930s faithfully preserved the villa's original design, including terracotta floors, beamed ceilings and exquisite frescoes. Highlights include a Renaissance-style fireplace in the ground floor living room.
The property offers endless possibilities. It is ideal for those seeking a luxurious private residence steeped in history or a venue for grand events, weddings or retreats. The property could also serve as a high end boutique rental property or a prestigious addition to the luxury hospitality market.
Situated between Pontassieve and Fiesole, the property enjoys a privileged location surrounded by olive groves, meadows and woods. Essential services are just a 5-minute drive (3.7 km) away, while the cultural treasures of Florence can be reached in 20 minutes (18 km). Florence airport is only 45 minutes away (20 km) and Pisa airport is 1 hour and 30 minutes away (110 km).
