Somewhere among Tuscanyās rolling hills, speckled with vineyards stretching beyond the horizon, nestles a piece of history. A prominent pink structure, said to be designed by the great Michelangelo himself, Villa Machiavelli was once home to the diplomatic (you guessed it) Machiavelli family in the late 15th-century. And now, the unique 10-bedroom estate welcomes vacationers.
āIn a country blessed with some of the worldās most fascinating historical significance and cultural heritage,ā says the director of villas at Red Savannah, Nick Westwood, āVilla Machiavelli stands out as a masterpiece of the Renaissance.ā Boasting a first-class historical pedigree, the villa is a relic of Florenceās Golden Age. In fact, itās where political philosopher and statesman NiccolĆ² Machiavalli wrote his political treatise, The Prince (Il Principe), an instruction guide for new royals, in 1513. Even the homeās design plans are considered somewhat sacred; they are secured in Florenceās Uffizi Gallery.
While its interiors are classically furnished, the villa features all of the amenities that modern travelers have come to expect. Think: WiFi, air conditioning, a jacuzzi, a steam room, and more. But itās also full of hidden treasures. In the cellar, thereās an incredible barrique wine tasting room and dining area; in other areas, thereās an indoor pool as well as spa treatment rooms. Perhaps the most remarkable discovery was made by the present owner who, beneath under layers upon layers of paint in the main villa, found massive, original frescoes. After three years of restoration, fifteen works, primarily of hunting scenes, were revealed.
And while thereās little reason to leave the propertyāwith its concierge and full staff of butlers, waiters, and housekeepingāitās located a tempting 20-minute drive from Florence, where even more Renaissance-related discoveries await. And between, in the heart of Italyās Chianti region, olive groves, vineyards, and ancient ruins are ripe for exploring.
Stays cost approximately $80,000 per week, depending on the season.