This extraordinary property is a rare remnant of a former monastic complex, with origins dating back to approximately the year 1000. The principal buildings date primarily from the 15th and 16th centuries.
For more than 30 years, the property has been lovingly owned, restored and inhabited by a painter and sculptor. Their artistic vision, appreciation for history and attention to detail are evident throughout the estate.
The restoration has respected the property’s historical character while creating a unique and atmospheric home. This is not a conventional Tuscan country house, but a historic residence, artistic retreat and private sanctuary surrounded by nature.
The estate includes:
• Main residence: approximately 160 sqm/ 1,722 sq ft
• Former church: approximately 75 sqm/ 807 sq ft
• Total existing internal space: approximately 235 sqm/ 2,529 sq ft
• Ruins of a former priest’s residence
• Land: approximately 2 hectares/ 4.94 acres
• Approximately 1 hectare/ 2.47 acres of fenced land
• Swimming pool of approximately 7 x 4 metres / 23 x 13 ft
• Fruit trees and approximately 12-15 olive trees
• Private natural water source and water well
• Solar panels
• Septic tank system
• Exceptional privacy and panoramic views
A significant part of the furniture and furnishings is included in the sale, together with the lawn mower and various gardening tools. Personal belongings and the owners’ own artworks, including paintings and certain sculptures, are excluded.
Privacy, Nature and Location
The property is located in the countryside of the municipality of Castel Focognano, in the green and unspoiled Casentino area of Tuscany, at approximately 600 metres / 1,970 ft above sea level.
Surrounded by forests, hills and open countryside, the estate offers complete privacy, tranquillity and beautiful views. It is particularly suitable as a permanent residence, second home, artist’s or writer’s retreat, or for anyone looking for a unique historic property immersed in nature.
The final approximately 800-900 metres/ 0.5–0.6 miles of the access road are unpaved, and a 4×4 vehicle is strongly recommended, particularly for permanent living.
The property is offered at an asking price of:
€388,000 (approximately $452,000 USD).
A significant part of the furniture and furnishings is included in the sale, together with the lawn mower and various gardening tools. Personal belongings and the owners’ own artworks including paintings and certain sculptures are excluded.
The Main Residence – Approx. 160 sqm/ 1,722 sq ft
The main residence has been completely renovated with great attention to its historical character and original details. The house is immediately habitable and much of the existing furniture is included in the sale.
The property is arranged over several levels.
Semi-Ground Floor, Accessible through two separate external entrances and internally connected to the kitchen above, this level includes:
•Entrance room or hall
•Spacious bathroom with external access
•Storage room with its own separate entrance
Main Floor
The main living level includes:
•Spacious kitchen with direct access to the outdoor terrace
•Living room with the main entrance and an open fireplace
•One bedroom
•Staircase to the upper floor
The upper floor consists of:
•Second living room
•Two spacious bedrooms
There is also the possibility of creating an additional bathroom, subject to the necessary technical assessment and permissions.
The Former Church – Approx. 75 sqm/ 807 sq ft:
One of the most remarkable features of the estate is the former church building.
The building no longer has a religious designation or function and may be used for private purposes. Its external walls and roof structure have been fully restored in keeping with the original architectural style, using high-quality traditional and reclaimed materials.
Inside, there are still remnants of original frescoes estimated to be approximately 400 years old, adding exceptional historical character to the space.
The interior is currently largely open and offers considerable flexibility for private use. Subject to the necessary permissions and technical requirements, it could potentially be adapted as a guest house, artist’s studio, gallery, entertainment space or additional living accommodation. Due to the considerable ceiling height, it may also be possible to create an intermediate floor.
Ruins and Hidden Underground Spaces:
The remaining walls of the former priest’s residence form an atmospheric and historically important part of the estate. Subject to the necessary permissions and regulations, there may be potential for redevelopment or restoration.
Adding further mystery to the property are underground spaces beneath and around the former church. Their entrances were sealed many centuries ago, and their exact size, height and original layout are unknown. Any future investigation or access would naturally be subject to the necessary permissions, safety requirements and technical assessment.
Swimming Pool and Outdoor Living:
The property features a swimming pool of approximately 7 x 4 metres / 23 x 13 ft, surrounded by a terrace with beautiful views across the countryside.
The pool is continuously supplied with fresh water from the property’s natural water source and is treated with chlorine if necessary.
Utilities and Heating:
The property includes a private natural water source, water well, septic tank system and solar panels with approximately 1.5 kW capacity.
Gas bottles are used for the kitchen, while domestic hot water is provided by electric boilers.
The current owners heat the property primarily with wood-burning stoves, using wood from their own woodland. There is currently no additional central heating system.
Land – Approx. 2 Hectares / 4.94 Acres:
The estate includes approximately 2 hectares / 4.94 acres of private land.
Approximately 1 hectare / 2.47 acres is fenced and includes the garden and park-like area surrounding the buildings, with numerous fruit trees and approximately 12–15 olive trees.
The remaining land consists primarily of woodland, shrubs and natural vegetation, contributing significantly to the privacy and secluded atmosphere of the estate.
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Please note, this may not be the properties exact location due to security reasons.
Despite its secluded setting, everyday amenities remain within driving distance.
•Rassina: 9 km/ 5.6 miles – approximately 15–20 minutes
•Bibbiena: 15 km/ 9.3 miles – approximately 25 minutes
•Subbiano: 16 km/ 9.9 miles
•Poppi: 25 km/ 15.5 miles
•Arezzo: 30 km/ 18.6 miles – approximately 45 minutes
•Florence: 83 km/ 51.6 miles
Florence Airport: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
Pisa International Airport: approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes
A Property for Someone Looking for Something Truly Different
This is more than simply a house with land in Tuscany. It is a historic estate with centuries of history, artistic character, a former church with surviving frescoes, ancient ruins, hidden underground spaces and nearly 5 acres of private land.
For a buyer who appreciates history, architecture, art, privacy and untouched nature, this is a rare opportunity to acquire a truly unique piece of Tuscany.
Please note that the property is located in a remote and elevated mountain setting. Its secluded location is one of its greatest attractions, offering exceptional privacy, tranquillity and a close connection with nature. Buyers should, however, take into account the rural mountain location and the approximately 800–900 metres (0.5–0.6 miles) of unpaved access road leading to the property.
Castel Focognano – Authentic Tuscany in the Casentino Valley
Castel Focognano offers a more authentic and peaceful side of Tuscany. Set in the green Casentino Valley, between the Pratomagno mountains and the Arno Valley, the area combines beautiful countryside, historic villages, ancient heritage and a genuine Italian lifestyle.
Unlike Tuscany’s more crowded and highly touristic areas, this location offers space, tranquillity and a strong connection with nature, while nearby Rassina provides everyday amenities and services.