In the year 1840, an adventurous young Englishman embarked on a journey across the rolling hills of Fiesole. It was during this journey that he encountered an ancient, abandoned castle that was in a state of ruin. Captivated by its lost grandeur, he decided to purchase the castle, intending to restore it back to its former glory of 800 years ago. This man, known as John, was driven by a heartfelt desire to rekindle the romantic spirit of the Middle Ages, nestled in the verdant hills above Florence. Thus, unfolds a tale woven with threads of love, hope, dreams, marriages, and legends. It’s a tale of love for the arts, the thrill of challenges, the pursuit of beauty, and, most importantly, the intimate bond between two lovers. Welcome to the captivating world of the Castle of Vincigliata!
Nestled in this medieval corner, with nearly a millennium of history under its belt, the Castle of Vincigliata stands as a silent observer to the Renaissance of Florence, which it majestically overlooks. The foundations of this castle were laid in the year 1031 by the influential Visdomini family. Over the centuries, the castle was home to many families, each contributing to its rich tapestry of history. Yet, the most enduring legend within its stone walls is that of Bianca di Usibaldi, a woman who dared to love a member of a rival family. Her love story, though beautiful, ended in tragedy. It is believed that her spirit has continued to linger, protecting the love stories of Vincigliata ever since.
The resurrection of the castle was no small feat. It demanded more than a decade of passion, relentless effort, and the unique, artful skills of Florentine artisans to breathe new life into the castle. The result was a magnificent testament to the timeless beauty of ancient architecture, and the castle bloomed anew. Following its restoration, the Castle of Vincigliata became a coveted destination for pilgrims and famous personalities alike, who made it a point to stop and marvel at its grandeur during their grand tour.
Images by Guido Andreoni “Event made as a second camera for Stefano Santucci Studio”
