LISTING OF THE DAY
Location: Pescia, Italy
Price: €19 million (US$21,240,917)
Visitors to Collodi's villa Garzoni Pinocchio, which occupies a dominating and panoramic position in this ancient medieval hamlet, may feel they have stepped back in time. Also known as the "Villa of Hundred Windows," the home just 60 kilometers (37 miles) northwest of Florence, was designed in the 18th century by an architect from nearby Lucca, Ottaviano Diodati. It replaced a large 16th century country mansion that was built on the ruins of a Middle-Age fortress.
But its biggest claim to fame is a bit more modern. "The property is unique, as it is set in the heart of Collodi, where the writer of the ‘The Adventures of Pinocchio,’ Carlo Collodi, was born and lived part of his life," said Anna Brunellini of Agenzia Romolini Immobiliare S.R.L., Christie's International Real Estate about this property. "The park around the villa was designed by Collodi's father, Domenico Lorenzini. There is also a great opportunity to convert the complex into a fascinating Relais & Chateaux," she said, referring to the upscale hotel chain.
The magnificent property is composed of many buildings. The noble villa is stretched across five staggered levels; access is from a monumental staircase. The structure has a southern exposure and is composed of frescoed rooms. The villa has been recently partially restored and the structure has been secured.
More:An Expansive Apartment Inside a Palace in the Heart of Rome
The palazzo, which faces the northern side of the villa has a terrace, balustrades and mosaics. The farm has access from the garden and it covers three levels, which include an internal courtyard as well as a small private garden. The complex also has a recently restored restaurant on two floors and a thermal bath with frescoed walls.
The Stats
The 59,105-square-foot property has 38 bedrooms and 30 full bathrooms. The complex includes the main villa (32,636 square feet), the palazzo (6,717 square feet), a thermal bath (936 square feet), a restaurant (2,669 square feet), and a farm with about 30 acres of land with woodlands and an olive grove with 70 trees.
Talking Points
"Over the centuries, the villa has hosted people like Ferdinando d'Austria, Anna de' Medici and Napoleone Bonaparte," said Ms. Brunellini.
Part of the complex also includes the recently restored Butterfly House, a crystal structure that reproduces a typical habitat of butterflies.
There's waterfront and then there's WATERFRONT.
A historic Swiss chateau hits the auction block next month https://t.co/BB9FjPQGYg pic.twitter.com/iodyzUIHb1 — Mansion Global (@MansionGlobal) May 12, 2017
Neighborhood Notes
Pescia is a lively town with old-world charm and modern conveniences. There’s no shortage of pleasant piazzas and good restaurants serving typical Tuscan fare to enjoy. Sightseeing highlights include Palazzo Vicario, the town hall, the Gothic church of San Francesco and the Duomo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. The town is located between the popular cities of Lucca and Florence.
Agent: Riccardo Romolini, Agenzia Romolini Immobiliare, S.R.L., Christie’s International Real Estate
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