Prestigious historic residence set in a magnificent park
prestigious historic residence immersed in a magnificent centuries-old park, just a short distance from the historic center of florence. an authentic period property that combines the charm of history with the elegance of architecture in a unique setting of prestige and privacy.
the villa is nestled among the hills and tells a fascinating story of history, art, and power, bearing witness to centuries of florentine glory. once a fortified tower and stronghold of the noble canigiani family, the building has passed through our history, including the battle of montaperti in 1260, which led to the family′s exile by the ghibellines. the political downfall of the canigiani house marked the begin ning of a much more enduring legacy with the 1306 union between diletta canigiani and the notary petracco, who fathered francesco petrarca - poet, writer, and humanist - considered one of the fathers of the italian language and a central figure of early humanism, celebrated alongside dante and boccaccio.
over the centuries, the property became home to important florentine families, such as the dell′antella, treasurers to the medici, who transformed it into an elegant country residence. later architectural interventions left visible traces: today, the villa is a perfect balance between 14th-century simplicity and 16th-century richness, with unique features such as a barrel-vaulted loggia, a panoramic terrace, and a chapel frescoed in the style of poccetti.
after a careful restoration in the 1970s, this historic home has returned to its most authentic form, preserving the original charm intact. surrounded by about 7 hectares of private parkland with manicured gardens, tree-lined avenues, and a vast forest, it offers a setting of complete privacy and prestige just minutes from florence.
the main villa, ideal for those seeking a residence rich in history and tuscan charm, is laid out over several levels and stands out for its architectural grandeur, with 33 rooms, including: a grand entrance hall, three living rooms with coffered ceilings and fireplaces, a large dining room with fireplace and large windows overlooking the park, a sitting room, a second entrance with library, three en suite double bedrooms with walk-in closets, a main kitchen with service entrances, and a guest bathroom.
the lower level features a large library fitted with technical shelving and a charming billiard room with direct garden access. a double bedroom with en suite bathroom is found on the mezzanine level. the first floor houses staff quarters and utility rooms.
within the villa′s courtyard and loggia is the family chapel, dedicated to saint francis and decorated in the 1600s in the style of poccetti, symbolizing the elegance typical of historic homes of the time. also located here is diletta canigiani′s historic bridal chamber, adorned with splendid period frescoes. on the loggia level are two residential units, ideal for guests or as a private study.
the surrounding park features a stunning swimming pool with dining and barbecue area, a tennis court set in greenery, a guest house, and ample space that allows for the addition of a helipad for fast and exclusive connections.
completing the property are seven additional residences of various sizes and numerous service buildings: a garage adjacent to the villa, lemon house, storage facilities, technical rooms, cellars, pantries, laundry and ironing rooms, and several driveways ensuring privacy and independence between the different units.
a timeless residence offering the privilege of living a chapter of tuscan history, characterized by elegance, privacy, and the exclusive greenery of the florentine hills.
