Castelfalfi: Italy’s Best Kept Secret

I’ve long been interested in the restoration and preservation of the Castello di Castelfalfi. This charming Italian chateau forms part of a long series of operations to which the village of the same name has been subjected over the centuries, without ever undermining the fascination of this estate sitting between the provinces of Pisa and Florence.

Built around 700 A.D. by Faolfi from Lombardy, hence the origins of its name, the village changed hands several times over the years until finally becoming the property of Giovanni di Francesco Gaetani, husband of Costanza de’ Medici, who restructured it in 1475 and transformed it from a defensive medieval fortress into a stately residence for entertaining and official functions. If you love Italy’s old chateaus, and picturesque landspaces, you will not be disappointed during your visit to Castelfani. And even though the vicissitudes of history changed the village and its destination, the surrounding countryside maintained its natural features.

The village of Castelfalfi, set on an estate of just on 1,100 hectares, spreads over a hilly area with woodlands forming part of the Torrente Carfalo Natural Reserve.

The Castle overlooks a panorama with unmistakable Tuscan features that can be enjoyed in all its calming beauty from both the viewpoint terrace – soon to house the outdoor tables of the restaurant – and the rooftop terrace on the southern side.