Once the Convent of San Francesco, this amazing six bedroom residence is part of a 16th century compound designed by the famous Renaissance architect Antonio San Gallo, the Younger, for the noble Orsini family. It is now a glorious house to rent in the splendid countryside of Tuscany, yet only a 10 to 15 minutes walk to the Medieval old town of Pitigliano, arguably the most ancient and most beautiful borgo in Tuscany.
Situated on 26 glorious and dramatic acres, the once convent is perched over a wooded ravine with dramatic views of distant vineyards and grazing sheep in the meadows below. The ravine property, Parco Orsini, adjoining the park, Poggio Strozzoni, holds Etruscan carved throne seats and reclining sculptural remains of a 16th century garden, created also by the noble Orsini family. This is a must to visit.
The building itself has been beautifully renovated with all modern conveniences; yet it remains a simply magical place, infused with the spirit of its history. Formerly, while a convent, the property was also a working farm producing wine and olive oil. Today, one of the Sitting Rooms of vaulted stone, was once the room where the wine was made in giant chestnut barrels which are still there, and make a dramatic feature. In the level below, is a hand-carved, tufa underground cantina (wine cellar) where the wine was stored. Today, it is a second sitting room with a large wood-burning hearth, and with dining for 20, or on a another, smaller table for 6, as well as the auxiliary kitchen... in other words, a great room. In addition, the actual working kitchen is well equipped with a 6 burner, powerful gas stove, a dishwasher, a toaster oven, refrigerators, food processor, blender, etc.... in a word, everything for serious cooks.
There are 7 bedrooms (6 double and 1 single), 7 bathrooms, (1 with an 800 lb ceramic tub), beautiful linen sheets and down pillows. There is a library and another very comfortable sitting room upstairs. An upstairs terrace with views over the lavender parterre and the ancient fig garden is gorgeous at sunset There are countless other very private spots for reading, visiting and resting.
Along the north side is a 60’ flowering arbor with outdoor dining, perfect for a shaded lunch in the summer. Beyond is an 18 meter saltwater pool with a fragrant, jasmine-covered pergola, overlooking the untouched ravine beyond to Mt. Amiata. The compound is naturally air conditioned with 3 foot thick walls and the cantina maintains a constant temperature of 58 degrees F. The convent has constant cool breezes through the perfect north south axis of every window.
High-speed internet, laundry room, and maid service 12 hours per week are included. Extra fee for additional time and laundry are possible; excellent in-house masseuse and a chef are also available.
For Lovers & Weddings
This just may be one one of the most romantic places on earth!! And Weddings are welcome. Secret caves, countryside walks through the flower-dotted meadows of Tuscany, moss-covered paths leading to seats for two carved out of ancient stone... and you can discover it all on your property. In addition to the beautiful landscape and quiet tranquility, the architecture itself inspires romance. There are sunset lookout spots,discrete passageways for stolen kisses, cozy fireplaces, candlelit bubble baths, and living rooms so inviting that you can't help but lie down...on the silk velvet sofas. Whether you want to celebrate your love or rediscover it, this is the perfect place to do it. There are several locations to conduct a ceremony, most notably in the enclosed courtyard in front of the 16th century house; or in the ancient fig and lavender garden. Due to the structure's homey yet spacious nature, family and close friends can stay in the building's numerous bedrooms. We can lso arrange comfortable local accommodation for additional wedding guests.
Before and after the ceremony, there are lots of fun activities to keep everyone entertained: meander around the medieval town of Pitigliano with a gelato cone in one hand, soak in the healing hot springs of Saturnia, sample the local delicious pizza, pasta, and tiramisu, hike up the ancient Etruscan trails, sunbathe by the pool, get a massage at home, paint watercolors or practice yoga in the garden...
Film Shoots: The convent's historical architecture makes it perfect for historical film shoots or luxury commercial shoots. The natural beauty of the surrounding landscape is also ideal for film and fashion shoots.
Nearby activities include exploring Etruscan sites and museums, and the ancient Jewish Synagogue and Ghetto. Because of its once thriving Jewish population, Pitigliano has been called "Little Jerusalem."
Enjoy cycling, spectacular hikes along Etruscan walkways from town to town, horseback-riding, taking the hot waters in Saturnia or Sorano, world class golf course 20 min away and exploring the mystery and pleasures of Tuscany. The Mediterranean and Argentario are about an hour away.
Free Wifi
