Whether it be the peace and quiet of the Tuscan countryside or the vibrant buzz of Florence, this unique property offers both. Situated in the most prestigious suburb of Florence literally creating the border between town and countryside, this 16th century converted watchtower is one of the most unique properties currently on the local market.
The Villa
The property which possesses characteristics of a villa, farmhouse and castle is assumed to date back to around the 14th century when it was most likely used as a military watchtower. Converted into a residential villa around the 16th century and used as such since then. The range of different types of architecture tells a story of a rich and complicated history. The villa today is for the most part encircled by a beautiful sloping "curtain wall" which gives testimony to its earlier military use, as does the internal courtyard and the crenelations running atop the surrounding walls. The main villa offers approx. 500 m2 of floorspace spread over three floors. The ground floor comprises three very spacious environments; a lounge with antique stone fireplace and high vaulted ceilings, a formal dining room with a chestnut beamed ceiling and a lovely bright veranda which leads out onto the rear courtyard. Also on the ground floor, we find a library/study, a kitchen, laundry area, and one bedroom with en-suite facilities.
The First floor is composed of five bedrooms, two of which may be described as master bedrooms with private en-suite bathrooms. One of the masters has a lovely private terrace offering fantastic views. There is a further bedroom in the tower or Belvedere.
Secondary Accommodation
Situated on the other side of the driveway we find a self contained studio apartment composed of a kitchen, two bedrooms, and a detached lounge/sitting room. This apartment offers approx. 90 m2 of floorspace and is currently used by the custodian/housekeeper. Situated behind the housekeepers apartment we find a greenhouse, kitchen garden and storage.
Gardens & Grounds
The grounds really make this property something special and especially fitting for a large family or group. One will never have difficulty finding a quiet place to sit and enjoy the surroundings. There is the impressive main front courtyard with shaded seating area, the rear loggia leading out onto a terrace, as well as another terrace leading down onto the gardens. The gardens have been beautifully landscaped and a walkway between manicured hedges and flowerbeds takes you down to the pool area.
Location
From the photos one may believe this property to be high in the Tuscan hills due to the greenery and views, however central Florence can be reached in less than 5 minutes. The property is located off a quiet country lane which leads directly down to one of the city centre's main entrance roads. The area is renowned and considered by many to be the most prestigious suburb of Florence.