Il Salviatino, a palatial villa dating back to the 15th century, is set to open in June 2009 as a luxury hotel just outside of Florence.


In 2007, directional hotelier Marcello Pigozzo together with his son unearthed a derelict villa, and in February 2008 initiated a 15 million euro ($20 million) architectural project set to restore the property to its former glory. Following a 40-year career in luxury travel, Pigozzo has realized a dream -- to create a hotel, encapsulating Italian culture and luxury living. With a team of local artisans, and award-winning architect Luciano Columbo, this 21st century restoration hopes to re-ignite Il Salviatino's aristocratic Florentine past.

Set within 11.5 acres of Tuscan gardens, Il Salviatino will offer 58 rooms, a gourmet al fresco restaurant and holistic spa. All interiors are individually designed to incorporate the preservation of original features, including 19th century frescoes, huge marble fireplaces and ancient mosaics.

A selection of suites will offer mezzanine floors, optimizing the high ceilings of the main house, and tucked away in to the terraced gardens, hillside suites will provide private conservatories, sunken baths and Tuscan views. The villa’s penthouse suite will offer multi-level living space with external plunge pool and private rooftop terrace with 360-degree views of Fiesole and the city of Florence.

A first-class day spa by Devarana will offer a menu of ancient eastern practices by Thai therapists. The spa will include a year-round heated and partially covered pool, a fitness center and a restaurant which together will operate as a hotel facility and private member's club for locals. A second pool will be situated by the villa for guest use only.

Rates at Il Salviatino will start at 575 euros ($760) for a deluxe room per night, for double occupancy, not including 10 percent government tax. This rate includes the Service Ambassador, who is the personal concierge responsible for every aspect of the stay, from pre-booking to post-visit. For more information, visit www.salviatino.com.

More information: Il Salviatino