From Calzaiolo to Pergolato
At the foot of the hill, via di Bibbione meets via Cassia which, on the right, leads to Il Calzaiolo. Here via di San Vito di Sopra crosses the river Pesa at the Mulino dei Tiratoi and reaches Montecalvi. To the left via Cassia leads to Bargino, from where a right turning goes up to Pergolato.

Castello di Pergolato

castello-pergolato“Castrum Pergolato” is first mentioned in a document dated 1185 and is believed to have been built over the ruins of a Roman settlement by the Buondelmonti. Pergolato gave this powerful family, Lords of Bibbione and Fabbrica, control over the two banks of the river Pesa and over the Roman road. The castle’s Medieval structure, rising on a cliff and defended by a tall tower, is also from the 12th century. In 1520, as inscribed over one of the reception room doors, Alessandro di Lorenzo Buondelmonti transformed the Medieval fortress into a pleasant stately home. A harmonious Renaissance loggia overlooking the valley was added to the oldest part of the castle and its interior was decorated with pietra serena doors, lavabos and corbels, all bearing the Buondelmonti shield depicting a cross over three mountains. It was here, in Pergolato, that Saint John Gualbert’s brother, Ugone, was violently killed. It was during the hunt for his brother’s murderer that the Saint discovered his vocation which led him to found the Vallombrosian monastic order. Just above the castle lies the small Church of San Pietro, which dates back to the Romanesque period, but underwent a 19th century Restoration. The doorway bears the shield of the Buondelmonti, the church’s patrons. The lovely belfry, topped by four pyramid shaped pinnacles, probably dates to the 17th century.

Castello di Pergolato has welcomed illustrious guests in the past. Today it continues the tradition by welcoming those who love history, nature and fine cuisine. It has a range of apartments which make up a total of 13 rooms with individual bathrooms, all furnished with antiques. Guests can enjoy the use of the large reception rooms, the beautiful loggia, the garden and the pool. The entire complex can be rented, preferably for week-long stays. Guests can enjoy full hotel service, including those of a Tuscan chef and an excellent organization of special events, which will make this an unforgettable holiday.
Address: Via di Pergolato San Casciano Val di Pesa Phone: +39 055 8249174 e-mail: castellopergolato@virgilio.it

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