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Italy
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Last Updated: Jan 21st, 2009 - 22:25:00 |
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| Villa Mangiacane © Villa Mangiacane 2009 |
Nestled in the tranquil hills of Tuscany, lies the beautiful Villa Mangiacane, a luxurious five-star hotel steeped in history. The name Mangiacane, or “great dog” references the Neopolitan Mastiffs which were used to guard the home, now represented in stone sculptures that greet guests from atop the front gate's pillars. Offering premium service and accommodations for discerning travelers, it offers much more for the traveler who is enamored by historical events.
Built was in the 15th century by the Machiavelli family thanks to generous commissions given by their relative, His Holiness Pope Urban VIII. Michelangelo had a hand in the design of this impressive Italian villa. The plans documenting his involvement with the design and construction of the villa are now carefully housed in the Uffizi Gallery in nearby Florence (Firenze), Italy.
26 individually designed rooms and suites are filled with original artwork and furniture collected from around the globe, and offer stunning views of the countryside, gardens, and vineyards. The feeling here is more like a private home than a hotel. Rooms have views of the hills and vineyards and feature private gardens and plunge pools on request. Their rooms have comfortable Queen beds, but if you are attached to the idea of a King-sized bed you will have to upgrade to a suite.
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| Villa Mangiacane Royal Suite © Villa Mangiacane 2009 |
All of the suites from the Junior Suite to the Mangiacane Royal Suite have wonderfully roomy King-sized beds. The Terrace Suite has a private terrace, living room, and dining room, a king bed, and an incredible view overlooking Firenze. The Royal Suite is an amazing 1600 sq ft of elegant relaxation. Featuring high ceilings with expansive views from seven windows, there is a fireplace, and private dining area, a steam room and two private terraces.
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| Shona sculpture © Villa Mangiacane 2009 |
After relaxing in your room, you will probably take a walk through the villa, where you will find yourself surrounded by period paintings and original Renaissance frescoes. You could easily find yourself transported to another era in this timeless villa. Perhaps the spirit of Niccolò Michiavelli permeates the essence of the place, rubbing off on those who are open to the creative flow of the area. It was here that Michiavelli wrote his infamous political treatise, The Prince.
Just like the Machiavelli family of the 15th century, the Villa's owners are avid sponsors of the Arts. The vine covered garden is filled with artwork from around the world. Walking through the garden there is a variety of styles, including the Zimbabwean Shona, the most important African art movement of the 20th Century.
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| Private Dining at the Villa © Villa Mangiacane 2009 |
But if you think only art enthusiasts will find something of interest at Villa Mangiacane you would be terribly wrong. The Villa is also known for it's amazing cuisine, created daily by their private chef, Chef Massimo Bocus. A myriad of dining options await those staying at the Villa. Breakfast on the patio overlooking the countryside may be just what you are looking for, or perhaps a quiet meal by the pool is more your taste. In the winter, you may want to share a warm, toasty meal with friends in the chef's kitchen, or perhaps you'd like an elegant dinner in the wine cellar surrounded by their own Chianti, Chianti Classico, and Shamiso Rose Wine as well as many other classic vintages. Each of these scenarios is possible with the help of the ever-helpful staff, as a matter of fact, they will help you set up a special meal anywhere on the property if you are looking for something a little more secluded and romantic.
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| Cooking Classes with Chef Massimo Bocus © Villa Mangiacane 2009 |
We think one of the best ways to spend an afternoon, however, would be learning to cook one of Chef Massimo's Tuscan meals. If you love cooking, you'll adore taking a private cooking class with the Chef. The estate produces its own distinctive Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Olio D’Oliva made from hand-picked Frantoio, Moraiolo, Leccino, and Pendolino olives. Picking fresh herbs from the garden and fresh local ingredients like the olive oil that can't be found elsewhere, Chef Massimo will spend roughly three hours teaching you how to cook the Tuscan way, with the biggest lesson that of enjoying the food and its preparation.
The Villa Mangiacane is a magical oasis of tranquility in a hurried world, a place to step out of the rush and indulge your senses, and rejuvenate your body and spirit with excellent food, relaxing spa treatments, and beautiful surroundings. Then, if you ever decide to leave the grounds of the Villa, a short trip will find you in Firenze (Florence) the artistic heart of Italy.
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Keywords: Villa Mangiacane, Machiavelli family, Machiavelli family, Italian villa, Florence, Firenze, Italy, Uffizi Gallery, Mangiacane Royal Suite, Niccolò Michiavelli, 15th century art, Zimbabwean Shona, Chef Massimo Bocus, Italian cooking classes, ClassBrain, Italy, Italian,
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