Hidden within a vast wooded estate lies the Sammezzano Castle, a stunning example of Moorish Revival architecture that remains largely unknown to the public. Only a few fortunate individuals get to explore its beauty each year.
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The castle occupies the same site as a royal palazzo established in 1605 by a Spanish nobleman, Ximenes of Aragon. In 1853, Marquis Ferdinando Ximenes Panciatichi deemed the original structure unfit and began a complete rebuild. Over 40 years, he and his team of artisans crafted the Sammezzano Castle, bringing his vision of a perfect retreat to life.
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Fleeing Florence’s increasingly hostile political climate, Marquis Panciatichi dedicated himself to creating a sanctuary where visitors could feel entirely removed from their realities. The motto “Non plus ultra,” meaning “nothing farther beyond,” is embedded in the walls, highlighting the castle’s uniqueness and originality. Each room is a masterpiece, with highlights including the Room of the Lilies, the Room of the Lovers, the Room of the Stalactites, the Room of the Mirrors, and the Room of the Peacocks.
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Following the marquis’ death, the castle was converted into a luxury hotel, thriving in the post-World War II era. However, as revenues declined, the hotel was abandoned in the 1990s. In 2012, the FPXA committee (Ferdinand Panciatichi Ximenes d’Aragon) acquired the property and has been working to restore it. They have opened the castle for tours, allowing visitors to appreciate its current, unrestored beauty.
Know Before You Go
- Advance booking is essential for tours of Sammezzano Castle.
- The castle is located in a secluded area within a large wooded estate.
- Each room offers a unique architectural experience, showcasing intricate designs and Moorish influences.
