The castle of Sammezzano is an architectural marvel located near Leccio, in the municipality of Reggello (Florence). The splendid building, which stands imposingly on a hill and fascinates with its beauty and originality, is part of the Places of the FAI Heart to be saved.
The castle took on its current appearance thanks to Ferdinando Panciatichi Ximenes of Aragon, a rich Tuscan nobleman of Spanish descent, born in Florence on 10 March 1813 and died in Sammezzano on 18 October 1897, who transformed and enlarged it between 1843 and 1889. It is said that he fell in love with the colors and decorations of the oriental world, so much so that he decided to transform the castle into a true jewel of Moorish style. It was Ferdinand himself who had the entrance hall built in 1853, the corridor of stalactites in 1862, the ballroom in 1867, and the central tower in 1889.
A riot of colors
The interior of Sammazzano castle is a veritable riot of bright colors, a work of art full of arabesque motifs and mosaics that enchant visitors. The building is composed of 365 rooms, one for each day of the year, each decorated in a unique way. The walls are covered with oriental frescoes and the rooms are furnished with richly decorated furniture and fabrics.
The park, an invaluable botanical heritage
Sammezzano Castle enjoys a surrounding historical park, a true wonder to explore. The park, an invaluable botanical heritage, extends over a vast area and is home to rare species of trees and plants from all over the world. Walking along the paths of the park you can admire the splendid flower beds, the lakes and the fountains which make the atmosphere magical and evocative. Visiting Sammezzano castle and its park is a unique and unforgettable experience.
Private property
In the 70s the Sammezzano castle was transformed into a hotel and restaurant and remained there until the end of the 80s. At the end of the 90s ownership passed to an Italian-English company. The “FPXA Committee”, established on the occasion of the bicentenary of the birth of Marquis Ferdinando Panciatichi Ximenes of Aragon, seeks to promote the study and knowledge of the castle and park.
Today the castle is normally closed, but can be visited at certain times of the year thanks to the availability of the property and local voluntary associations that organize guided tours.
(Photo: Sammezzano Castle, Facebook Page)
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