Modern etiquette could be traced back to the Castello San Lorenzo. During the Italian Renaissance the definitive rulebook on personal conduct, Galateo, was compiled by Giovanni della Casa, and disseminated across the Courts of Europe. Born at the Castello in 1503, della Casa was well-placed to observe the codes and practices of Florentine high society, as son of Lisabetta Tornabuoni, cousin of the great Lorenzo the Magnificent.
Just 16 miles from Florence, the 200-hectare Castello San Lorenzo estate is set in the heart of the Mugello, a scenic region of Tuscany celebrated as the birthplace of Renaissance luminaries Giotto and Beato Angelico, as well as the seat of the all-powerful Medici family. Today the region features many pretty hamlets and villages, several within just a few miles of the estate, world-class golf courses, and the Mugello racing circuit where Italian sports car driving experiences can be booked.
The Castello has a small Spa and gym, a swimming pool (salt water), chapel, billiards room, lovely private grounds, and spacious bedroom suites. Daily housekeeping is included, and a chef can be booked for private dining experiences if required.
Within walking distance of the Castello, the family also owns a small hotel with restaurant and tennis court, available to guests staying at the Castello.
