Castello di Cabbiavoli, Castelfiorentino, Firenze, Chianti

Every building in the Tuscan landscape is redolent of the many cultures that inhabited it throughout the centuries. About 30 Km from Florence, Cabbiavoli castle, built on the ancient Via Francigena connecting France to Rome, is a shining example, evoking a multitude of ancient influences. The castle's history dates back to 1210, when the Counts Alberti di Certaldo, chief of the ruling Longobard family that dominated the nearby Elsa valley, built Caput Aulae, as the centre of Val d'Elsa's court. The Alberti family owned and lived in this fabulous castle, later transforming it into an elegant country mansion, until the 17th century. Traces of the original 13th century fortified castle are still discernible in the square brick tower and the defensive walls alongside the villa. Cabbiavoli then fell into the possession of the Brandini family, one of the leading families of Castelfiorentino, owners of various farms and a bank. In 1900 Alice Brandini married the entrepreneur Cesare Puccioni, grandfather of the present owner. Cesare and Cecilia Puccioni have personally overseen the restoration of the Castle, maintaining all the charm and uniqueness of a historical home. Here, the warmth and hospitality that has always been a feature of Cabbiavoli is still very much in evidence today. The Castle of Cabbiavoli, perched atop a hill, has been completely restored whilst maintianing the spirit and atmosphere of a noble mansion. It can easily accomodate 12 people in luxurious comfort. In front of the Villa a big garden with a breathtaking view on the Tuscan countryside: dramatic views of the undulating, fertile countryside below, as far as the towered town of San Gimignano which is just visible on the horizon to the south. A staircase leads down to the swimming pool of 10 x 5 meters surrounded by a lawn and a n arcaded loggia. Behind is a shower and a fridge. CIN: IT048010B4D57CAYZP