Originally a medieval castle with fortified tower, Convertoie sits on a hilltop, near Greve in Chianti in the heart of Chianti region. The location, dating back to Etruscan times, is very interesting historically, as traces of the original Etruscan cobbled road which led from the Lucumonia of Volterra to that of Fiesole, have been uncovered at the base of the structure. The property was also later used as a base for a Roman garrison, and later still was damaged by the Sienese army during its war with Florence in 1530. Its defensive role ended in 1550 when part of the tower was transformed into a church. It now sits peacefully, dominating the surrounding countryside and with wonderful views. What was probably once the original internal courtyard is now a car parking space.
Access to the villa is from the car park (courtyard) through an external archway and into the garden. The gardens are on two levels with the swimming pool (10 x 5m) on the lower level, surrounded by a beautiful lawn with gazebo and abundant poolside furniture. In front of the villa, is a paved terrace which leads up to the main entrance. There is a further covered terrace outside the kitchen, furnished for dining outdoors while enjoying the beautiful views. All the terraces have railings but because of the different levels, young children would have to be watched carefully.
The layout of the villa interiors date back to the 1700s, but were restored in 1992. All the second floor rooms feature the original wood beamed ceilings while the lower floors have the old coffered ceilings. Pietrasanta borders offset the terracotta floor tiles, and the bathrooms have hand crafted Vietri tiles. The rooms are beautifully furnished with many antiques. Amenities include satellite television, DVD, stereo CD player, billiard table, telephone, barbecue and a baby cot. Central heating is charged extra.
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Ground Floor
Entrance hall. Formal dining room with fireplace. Spacious kitchen with gas/electric hob, electric oven, dishwasher, fridge/freezer and door to terrace. Huge room with vaulted ceiling, fireplace and billiard table.
First Floor
Double bedroom with canopy bed and en-suite bathroom (bath). Spacious living room with open fireplace, and opening to a rear furnished terrace. Study with TV. Twin bedroom with en-suite bathroom (bath).
Second Floor
Double bedroom with en-suite bathroom (bath). Second spacious living room with fireplace. Double bedroom with en-suite bathroom (bath). |
