Historical Relais with magnificent gardens in close to Siena

Where?

This enchanting Relais rises in the heart of the Senese countryside, only 15 km from Siena.

 

Villa History

The origins go back to the Middle Ages when it was one of the castles of two Tuscan counties ruled by the legendary Queen of Montemaggio. Later this county passed into the hands of the Longobards Andengheschi family, and in 1507 it had been gifted to Pope Julius II, who received it from the Republic of Siena for political reasons. This Renaissance Pope, is far better known as Raffaello and Michelangelo’s patron and for having commissioned the construction of S. Peter’s to the architect Bramante.

The gift was greatly appreciated by Julius II, so much that the renovation work and conversion of the ancient fortress to a villa were entrusted to Baldassarre Petruzzi, who blended its medieval severity with the sumptuous luxury of the Renaissance.

This enchanting Relais passed from the Pope Julius to the Chigi family from Siena and later it came into the current owners’ hands, the family of Marquis Ricci, who have turned it into a an extraordinary five star country hotel whose suites and room offer hospitality to the most demanding guests from all over the world.

 

Venue description

The grounds and settings of the enchanting hotel are spectacular.  The present owners have transformed this magnificent castle into a unique hotel that combines superb quality with the warmth of a private home.

The Relais includes three main buildings: The Papal Villa, the stables and the Farmhouse. Historic furnishings and art objects serve as reminders of the many famous people who have been associated with the villa and its owners, while modern conveniences guarantee a comfortable stay.

The villa is surrounded by  beautiful Italian gardens and a gentle and romantic Tuscan countryside.

Inside this venue you have the feeling of walking through ancient times.

Its reception rooms, the old church, the sophisticated restaurant and bar, the health spa provide the guests with an unforgettable experience of a harmonious bygone world.

 

Wedding ceremony

Civil wedding ceremony in Siena or in the nearby town hall. Catholic and Protestant marriages on the private chapel of the Villa.

 

Wedding banquets

This venue is recommended for small, intimate and luxurious wedding ceremonies and receptions. Wedding banquets are held on the “Sala del Papa”. The restaurant can host maximum 60 guests. Indoor wedding receptions. Outdoor parties are possible only if guess rent the whole venue.

 

Cuisine

The Chef offers typical Tuscan dishes and other Italian specialities made with genuine and high quality ingredients. There is also a large choice of Italian wines carefully selected.

 

Music entertainment

Soft music only.

 

Accommodation

32 marvellous rooms, between suites and bedrooms, with antiques and historical furnishing that belongs to the owners family, evidencing the passed epochs and famous characters. Each one is has an en-suite bathroom, telephone, mini-bar, Sat TV, heating and air-conditioning. Facilities: Swimming pool, tennis courtyard, horseback riding,  excursions, golf club nearby, wine tasting, spa centre.

 

Open

Late April until beginning of November.