Villa Mangiacane

Florence

Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is one of the Italy’s principal cities by the wealth of its cultural heritage. A prime example is the Santa del Fiore cathedral, better known as the Duomo, a Gothic structure whose construction began in the 12^th century and was completed in 1436, thanks to the work of the celebrated artist, Brunelleschi. It’s ranked among Europe’s greatest churches, and is one of the symbols of the city. Museums are of primary importance in Florence as well, notably the Uffizi Gallery and the Pitti Palace, which before falling into the hands of the Medicis, had been built for rich family of local bankers. It became the official residence of the city’s leaders and contains an important collection of 16^th, 17^th and 18^th century paintings, making it one of the world’s richest museums. Finally, there are Florence’s loggias with restaurants, exhibition sites and museums.

A touch of Michelangelo

Discovering the Villa Mangiacane is a true delight. It is said that Michelangelo participated in its construction... This superb 16^th century building was built for the Machiavelli family. In the year 2000, it was totally renovated thanks to a wealthy South African contractor, Glynn Cohen, who rebuilt it from its remaining ruins. He and his Florentine architect, Giancarlo Papasogli and interior decorator, Ralf Krall was a collective and successful effort. The villa is now a five-star hotel with a luxurious and refined spa.

The pinkish orange color of the exterior reminds us that we are only a few kilometers from Florence. The surrounding nature is typical of the region with olive trees and vineyards as far as the eye can see. Commissioned by the owner, the incredible task of renovating the walls and the plaster was undertaken in for the centuries old frescoes to reappear. The hotel’s 28 rooms are warm in atmosphere with a décor combining the classical and the modern. Thus, the four-poster beds, gilded chandeliers and wood and marble tables blend perfectly with certain modern decorations like the paintings. The Royal Suite, worthy of its name, possesses a truly palace décor.

Meals can be taken on the loggia or in the hotel’s restaurant. The villa produces its own wine and olive oil which of course can be enjoyed onsite.

The hotel’s name comes from the Latin “magna la cane”, meaning “big dog.” In time, it became “mangiacane” after the huge dogs that used to guard the villa. These dogs are still present but as stone statues, placed on the pillars of the door to the residence.