Villa Mangiacane is a noble and majestic villa set on a cypress shaded hill, just seven miles directly south of Florence and near the town of San Casciano. The name originated from Latin, Magna Cane, which literally translates to 'great dog.'
The local dialect transformed the name into Italian and Mangiacane. The dogs in which the name refers are Neopolitan mastiffs, which were originally used to guard the villa. Today the imposing stone dog sculptures atop the gate's pillars pay homage to the history of the house.
Mangiacane dates back to the 15th century and was built for the Machiavelli family with whispers that Michelangelo himself participated in the design.
In fact, because of the significance of the owners and architects, the original buildings plan for improvements are housed at the Uffizi Gallery in Florence. These plans include a grander palace with a new wing, designed by Giorgio Vasari "Il Giovane" (nephew of the famous architect Giorgio Vasari).
Villa Mangiacane's fortune rose and fell over the course of two centuries. Sold by the Machiavelli family in 1645, the villa was turned over to the aristocratic family of Marchesi Mazzei who kept it until the mid 20th century.
Damaged in the last War and lying dormant for nearly fifty years, Mangiacane was revived in 2000 by a prominent businessman and entrepreneur. Upon visiting the Mangiacane estate, he was immediately convinced by its enchanting character, history and strong architectural lines. "Seeing the Duomo framed by the arches of the villa's loggia, in a building designed by Michelangelo, where Machiavelli wrote The Prince, was an awe inspiring moment," he says, "Adding to the fascination is the exceptional Tuscan landscape which combines human artistry with nature's beauty.
Under the guidance of the Florentine architect, Gianclaudio Papasogli Tacca, and international interior decorator, Ralf Krall, the new owner commissioned a multi-million dollar renovation restoring the villa to its former splendor.
Perhaps the most admirable details at the villa are found in the beautifully restored Renaissance frescos which were uncovered in the revival process. Frescoes were often created to commemorate weddings, birthdays or other important dates for the family. Although team cannot attribute a specific event for their creation, these paintings on the loggia are of a hunting scene, possibly of the Goddess Artemis.
Set among 600 acres of flourishing vineyards and olive groves, the private villa now produces four distinguished wines. The estate's 6,000 olive trees produce its own distinctive extra virgin olive oil and is liberally used by the kitchen to enhance the flavors of the local produce. The idea has been to produce fine modern tastes in a setting that could offer old-world hospitality to its guests.
The classic beauty of Villa Mangiacane combined with its art and idyllic Tuscan setting guarantees a brush with the historic past. At Mangiacane you will find modern day conveniences are seamlessly combined with the splendor of the Renaissance. Join writing the next chapter of Villa Mangiacane's illustrious history.
You may enjoy a fresh breakfast served on the outdoors in fine weather overlooking the Tuscan countryside or a refreshing light lunch around the pool, where you'll listen to the hum of the bees hard at work in the surrounding flowers and vineyards. For dinner, you may choose the elegant restaurant or dine al fresco amidst the herb gardens.
For a more intimate setting enjoy the cozy environment in the Vinoteque or private wine cellar. In winter you may enjoy the feeling of a home cooked meal around the fire in the main villa's Olive Oil Kitchen.
If the incurable romantic in you takes over, unassuming staff will set up intimate, candle-lit meals on request, anywhere on Mangiacane's property.
All of dining areas encompass the spirit of Villa Mangiacane in a historic setting incomparable to any other.
Meals can range from a simple three courses to a complex tasting menu of seven. Chef mixes the freshest local ingredients to present meals that will surely satisfy.
He capitalizes on Tuscan ingredients such as traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina, T-bone steaks from possibly the best butcher in Tuscany, to a more simple handcrafted spagetti with tomatoes and basil plucked from the garden.
If your inclination is for fish, he could prepare Sicilian king prawns in honey crust on lentils and ginger sauce, accompanied by a fennel carpaccio. And, if you are curious to learn more, join him in a private cooking class where he will lead you through the steps to create your own Tuscan feast.
From simple to sophisticated, Chef has the ability to deliver an extraordinary meal in a spectacular setting.
Villa Mangiacane's Head Chef started his career 28 years ago in a school for hotel and catering staff in Florence. His passion for cooking started when he was very young. His grandmother used to cook a lot every day therefore it was easy for him to learn how to make pasta and how to prepare many of the most famous Tuscan and Italian recipes.
Cooking in Italy is a tradition, in fact every Sunday morning families make pasta.
Later on he worked in two Michelin starred restaurants, “Enoteca Pinchiorri” with 3 Michelin stars in Florence and in San Domenico with 2 Michelin stars in Imola.
He has also been the personal Chef for Italian President for 3 years and Executive Chef in many of the best hotels in Florence. He has subsequently worked in Switzerland, England, Norway, USA, South Africa, and he has taught in many colleges, restaurants and hotels.
Finally, he has been working as Executive Chef for the prestigious "Villa Mangiacane for the last 4 years, during which he has had the privilege to prepare meals for very important people from Italy, international actors as George Clooney and Orlando Bloom or celebrities as Bocelli, Holyfield and the Royal Family of Monaco.
This fabulous addition to property, it is the infinity pool which was built when the Villa was renovated and restored between 2001 and 2007.
Enjoy 50 minutes of full body care, including lower and upper extremities. Neck and facial massage also available
Spa completes with a fully equipped gym and two exquisitely designed pools, offers tranquility and pampering for mind, body and spirit. A state of the art steam room and sauna serve to perfectly complement the range of services and amenities.
Depending on the weather and season, the Chef greets guests in the Olive Oil Kitchen or in the herb garden where you will begin by selecting fresh herbs that will be used during the lesson.
Reserve a nearby Golf Course with stunning views, some challenging holes that blend into the landscape, narrow fairways and tricky greens
The Experience of a Lifetime - a bird's eye view on Tuscany’s vineyards, olive groves and ancient townships. Take off and landing in the heart of the Chianti wine region
Walking guided tour through the vineyards in front of Villa Mangiacane with visit through the sculpture garden (African contemporary Art), visit in the historical aging cellar inside the Villa and guided wine tasting by Sommelier.
Ranging from board meetings for ten to receptions accommodating up to 300, Mangiacane's unassuming and professional staff will ensure that your event is well-organized and successful.
Located in the Spini Ferroni building this museum houses an extensive collection of shoes all designed by Salvatore Ferragamo between 1927 and 1960.
This quiet square dedicated to Michelangelo offers some of the best panoramic views of the city and Tuscan hills.
The Duomo stands as a symbol of Florence and its patronage by the Medici family as well as an architectural masterpiece.
The picturesque Tuscan countryside and unique private villa provides the perfect backdrop for capturing each special memory.
Tasting of Property Wines including guided tour through the vineyards of Mangiacane and the visit of the historical aging cellar inside the Villa.
VILLA MANGIACANE
Via Faltignano 4, 50026 San Casciano in Val di Pesa FIItaly