This 15th century castle set in the Tuscan countryside has an enduring place in the history of Florence, Italy.
The Cavalcanti Castle was constructed around 1427 by a descendant of Guido Cavalcanti, a renowned poet and friend of writer-philosopher Dante Alighieri. When the castle was built there were no notable figures within the still-prominent family, but they remained active in Florentine political and religious life. The Cavalcantis would regain their influence when marriage united them with the powerful Medici family.
In the intervening centuries, the castle has undergone numerous expansions and restorations while retaining its architecture and distinctive features. Parapets line the roof of the solid stone structure (once a watchtower), which sits atop a hill covered in mature trees.
“In past years, it has been utilized by prominent political figures and for celebrating various weddings,” says listing agent Francesco Di Pinto of Building Heritage. “Currently, the property is used for events, ceremonies and conferences.”
The extensive grounds and Italian-style garden were designed around 1860 by then-owner Baron Adolfo Levi, who subsequently commissioned the restoration of the castle itself. Night lighting and the swimming pool in the inner garden are more recent improvements.
The more than 26,000 square feet (2,450 square meters) of interior space, spanning three floors plus a basement, includes such architectural details as decorative groin-vaulted ceilings, archways and frescoed halls.
A soaring beamed ceiling tops the massive dining room, which features a baronial fireplace and central chandelier. There are 17 bedrooms and 14 bathrooms.
The asking price for the property, about 30 kilometers or nearly 19 miles from Florence, is €6 million or about US $6.35 million.
“The estate could certainly be purchased by either a foreign or Italian investor, although current inquiries have predominantly come from abroad,” Di Pinto says. “The property presents an ideal investment opportunity for the creation of a boutique hotel or luxury residence just outside the city of Florence.”