By Lauren Jade Hill
Combining rich heritage and architectural majesty with idyllic settings in the Italian countryside, each of these castles provides a lifestyle many dream of having. Whether embarking on a venture into wine-making, or searching for a secluded second home, these historic properties provide an extraordinary home to move straight into.
Province of Como
With a history going all the way back to 1149, this castle in the Como province is a reflection of Italy’s medieval past. And having been restored in 1345 by the Lord of Milan, and again in 1987, it stands in its full magnificence to this day. Within the vast expanse of land, the property encompasses a hotel and spa, along with a restaurant, wine cellar and banquet hall, with distinct features including observation towers and a drawbridge. In its prestigious location, the castle is just 15 km from Lake Como, and 22 km from Milan.
$16,005,450, prestigeproperty.co.uk
Chianti, Tuscany
Situated outside a small village of Chianti, a 45-minute journey from Florence, this castle’s setting is especially idyllic, with views over the Tuscan hills and vineyards. Originally built in the 14th century, then transformed into its current state in the 19th century, the property exhibits its heritage through features such as its turrets, courtyards, original frescoes and terracotta floors. Along with the kitchen, living and dining space, the castle has 12 en-suite bedrooms. And the castle’s grounds are no less impressive, with Italian gardens, a swimming pool, pool house and tennis court, as well as a pocket of woodland with olive trees.
$6,935,695, prestigeproperty.co.uk
Chianti, Tuscany
This majestic 19-bedroom castle in Chianti is located on a hilltop between Florence and Siena. The vast grounds include vineyards, olive groves and woodland, with a central courtyard and swimming pool. The fully-restored castle features grand state rooms, 19 en-suite bedrooms, and extensive wine cellars, which open up the possibility of using the castle as a wine estate. In fact, between 70,000 and 90,000 bottles of wine are already produced by a local winery each year, from the property’s vines.
$26,675,750, prestigeproperty.co.uk
Perugia, Umbria
Tucked within the central Italian region of Umbria, this early 19th-century castle overlooks the nearby city of Perugia, as well as Mount Subasio and Assisi, with far reaching views from the octagonal terrace of the tower, which is complete with battlements. Throughout each room, across four floors, original features can be found, from frescoes and stucco to the castle’s tapestry room, and a living room featuring a coffered ceiling and bow windows. Parkland surrounds the villa, with stables within the grounds, too.
$7,896,022, prestigeproperty.co.uk