Castello del Monsignore, a restored Renaissance villa located on the Florentine hills just outside of Florence, offers a luxury experience in the historical birthplace of Monsignor della Casa.
Published 19 July, 2024
I hold it to be true that Fortune is the arbiter of one-half of our actions,[*] but that she still leaves us to direct the other half, or perhaps a little less - Niccolo Machiavelli, The Prince
It’s a genuine privilege to experience the remarkable Castello del Monsignore, constructed in 1406 during the vibrant Renaissance. This period brought us masterpieces like Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and Michelangelo’s iconic statue of David. At the same time, Christopher Columbus embarked on his final voyage to the New World, exploring Central America. A visit to Castello del Monsignore offers an unforgettable journey into the past. This property, named after Giovanni della Casa, who was born here in 1503, carries a legacy of cultural significance. Della Casa, a distinguished Florentine writer, authored Galateo, a seminal guide on manners and behaviour in Western culture. This influential book, translated into many languages, served as a reference for the ladies-in-waiting to Queen Elizabeth I of England. As you walk through this stunning estate, you can feel the essence of the Renaissance and the enduring influence of its notable residents.
Written by My Private Villas
Castello del Monsignore
Castello del Monsignore stands as a quintessential example of Tuscan elegance and exclusivity. Enveloped within expansive grounds, it boasts a variety of amenities catering to both relaxation and recreation. Nestled amidst 20 acres of verdant parkland, the villa offers a serene escape where families can indulge in luxurious comfort. The estate is crowned by an eight-hectare park with ancient botanical species, an organic vegetable garden, an aromatic lemon house, and a consecrated, frescoed chapel dating from the 18th century.
Guests are invited to unwind in the villa’s sophisticated spaces, from the spacious junior suites adorned with original wood-beamed ceilings and wooden bathroom walls to the suites that showcase Renaissance frescoes and period-specific flooring. The dedicated TV room offers leisure and entertainment, complete with a PlayStation and a selection of board games. For fitness enthusiasts, there’s a fitness room equipped with Technogym machines, as well as a spa where they can unwind in the sauna and hammam.
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Outside, the estate unfolds with a host of recreational offerings tailored to all ages. A courtyard provides a picturesque setting for summer breakfasts, while a sprawling lawn area is equipped with table tennis and football nets for energetic play. A jogging path winds around the perimeter of the property, offering a scenic route for morning runs or leisurely strolls. The highlight of outdoor leisure is undoubtedly the heated pool with a whirlpool feature, inviting guests to swim, sunbathe, or simply unwind amidst the serene surroundings. For those with a taste for culinary exploration, the villa boasts an Italian kitchen garden bursting with fresh vegetables and herbs, complemented by the fragrant aromas of lemon trees housed in an orangery during winter. Meanwhile, truffle enthusiasts can anticipate autumn excursions to the estate’s truffle field, where both black and white truffles grow in abundance.
While the estate’s historical chapel is reserved for religious ceremonies for the owner’s family, guests are welcome to arrange symbolic celebrations within its sacred walls. The villa also accommodates pets, ensuring that every member of the family can enjoy this tranquil Tuscan retreat.
Under the Tuscan Sun
Castello del Monsignore lies in the heart of Mugello, Tuscany, just 27 kilometres from Florence. This historical castle sits on a sprawling 200-hectare estate, rich in the heritage of luminaries like the Medici family, celebrated for their role in advancing Renaissance learning and culture through institutions such as the Medici Bank and Library. Despite its serene countryside location, Castello del Monsignore enjoys close proximity to Borgo San Lorenzo, a vibrant town offering shops, restaurants, and all modern conveniences just three kilometres away. Nearby Scarperia, a mere five kilometres distant, enchants visitors with its mediaeval charm and the thrilling Mugello racing circuit, owned by Scuderia Ferrari. The MotoGP races held here are distinguished by a Ferrari red flair that adds excitement to the challenging curves and straights. In this picturesque setting, you’ll discover a delightful blend of breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality, authentic culinary delights, superb wines, and a robust artisanal tradition. From mediaeval Scarperia e San Piero’s exquisite craftsmanship in cutting tools to Firenzuola’s renowned pietra serena (grey sandstone) in Upper Mugello, the region showcases the essence of Tuscany’s cultural and natural allure.
Experiences: From Hot Air Balloon to Driving Ferrari
“And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.” - F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby
If you’re seeking a place for rejuvenation and new experiences, this estate is the perfect choice. Nearby, you’ll find a wealth of activities to suit every taste—from invigorating options like hiking, Vespa tours, and water sports to serene pursuits such as yoga to golf at the prestigious Poggio dei Medici Golf Club. For those craving adventure, you can go fishing in the reservation of the Sieve river or enjoy a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over Florence. Thrill-seekers can also indulge in the exhilarating experience of Ferrari driving. Past guests have also raved about horse riding, exploring Tuscan art cities in classic or sports cars, and indulging in wine tastings. On the estate itself, you can engage in the ancient tradition of truffle hunting in its natural truffle grounds.
Don’t miss the opportunity to take a cooking class at Castello del Monsignore in Italy—it’s an unforgettable experience. Spend three hours learning authentic Tuscan cuisine alongside our chef, who will reveal her culinary secrets and teach you to discern perfectly ripe vegetables. After selecting your ingredients, you’ll discover how to make ravioli, tagliatelle, and tortelli—the finest fresh Tuscan pasta.
Lastly, for those with a dream of flight, just a short 5-minute drive from Castello del Monsignore lies an airfield where you can learn the art of flying.
We spoke with Andrea Marzi, owner of Castello del Monsignore, to learn more about his high-end estate.
Interview: Andrea Marzi, Owner of Castello del Monsignore
What is one unique aspect of Castello del Monsignore?
Castello del Monsignore is a premier destination in Tuscany near Florence, renowned for its rich history and luxury. It is the birthplace of Monsignor Giovanni della Casa, born in 1503, who authored the famous book of etiquette, Il Galateo. Built in 1460, the property is bound to the commission of fine arts, surrounded by a four-meter-high wall, and immersed in a monumental park.
How do you assemble and manage a team of staff to maintain such a high standard of luxury and service?
With our extensive 200-hectare property that includes a 4-star country resort, we efficiently manage a large staff. The castle manager, a highly trained professional, works alongside the butler and other staff members to handle every situation and respond to all customer requests.
What’s an unexpected benefit of the villa’s location?
One unexpected delight is a small river on the property where guests can take a refreshing bath.
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Is there a signature feature in the villa that you love?
A signature feature we particularly love is the “Suite of Monsignore”, where Giovanni della Casa once stayed. Its size and style are exceptional.
What is Castello del Monsignore’s trademark?
Our trademark is the unique historical atmosphere that envelops guests, as we are the birthplace of Giovanni della Casa, a descendant of the Medici family. The castle exudes a sense of history at every turn.
What have you learned from working at Castello del Monsignore?
Working here offers the privilege of participating in exclusive events and catering to high-end clients.
How do you handle additional service requests from guests?
During the day we are available with our staff and concierge to handle additional service requests.
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Can you share memorable feedback from a guest?
One memorable guest feedback described us as “a corner of paradise where kindness and helpfulness prevail, everything is meticulously cared for, and nothing is left to chance.”
Is there an interesting anecdote from the property’s history that you’d like to share?
A fascinating historical anecdote: In 1490, a grand party was held for Lisetta Tornabuoni’s birthday, and her cousin, Lorenzo il Magnifico, surprised everyone by arriving with two lions and an elephant. The Medici family loved lions and used the “Marzocco” lion atop the tower of Palazzo Vecchio as a symbol of Florence.
Are there any nearby events for which Castello del Monsignore is a great accommodation option?
We are a preferred accommodation for guests attending events at the Mugello circuit or for private family reunions and exclusive private events.
What dish do you crave the most at Castello del Monsignore?
Our signature dish, Tagliata del Monsignore, is a culinary delight.
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What activity do you enjoy most as part of your daily routine at the property?
Daily activities we enjoy include basking in the tranquillity of our monumental park and relaxing in the heated saltwater pool with jets and water games. Guests can engage in tasting sessions, bike tours, cooking classes, truffle hunting, and more, falling in love with our land every day.
From your perspective, what would a perfect day look like for a guest at Castello del Monsignore?
A perfect day for our guests begins with a complimentary yoga class and a tasty, healthy breakfast. They can then enjoy a massage, cool off in the pool, take a walk in the park followed by a picnic, and end the day with an aperitif by the pool and an outdoor dinner.
How do you infuse local culture and traditions into the guest experience at your villa?
Upon arrival, we share the history of Castello and insights about the local area, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the charm of Tuscany and its rich traditions.
If you could offer guests one piece of advice for making the most of their stay, what would it be?
To make the most of their stay, we advise guests to book all our exclusive services and stay as long as possible to truly discover and enjoy this beautiful place.
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