When it comes to buying in 2009, people are increasingly looking for quality properties, established locations and the ‘added value’ that makes for a prudent long-term investment. Independent real estate and restoration agency, Italian Property, is putting a stunning church conversion in Tuscany on the market that excels on all three counts.
Close to the medieval town of Castelnuovo Berardenga, and a short drive from culture-crammed Siena, the 13th century Franciscan church has been sensitively restored to offer modern comfort and contemporary styling while conserving the ancient character of the building.
The main façade preserves the original shrine of the Madonna of Provenzano, after whom the church is named, and the original arches, exposed beams and vaulted ceilings act as a skeleton within which a luxury three-bedroom residence has been created. The architect-designed interior, complete with all mod cons, adds another chapter to the rich history of this fascinating building.
Italian Property has two other houses in this sought-after area of Tuscany ready for viewing. Casa Bossi is a wonderful example of Tuscan restoration with a modern twist: the three bedroom stone farmhouse retains original features such as terracotta flooring and chestnut wooden beams, which are complemented by the understated, minimalist interior.
Villa Sonia, once used for hay storage, is now a classic Tuscan family home. Restored conserving original materials where possible, the four-bedroom property offers large living spaces, a swimming pool, and two terraces for al fresco dining.
All three properties overlook the rolling hills of rural Tuscany, rich in olive groves, cypress trees and vineyards. Shops, cafes and traditional trattoria can be found in nearby Castelnuovo Berardenga, which hosts a colourful grape festival each September, and UNESCO-listed Siena, just 15 miles away, makes an ideal day excursion.
Siena is home to many great examples of Italian Romanesque architecture, including the Duomo, its magnificent black and white cathedral, and Santa Maria della Scala, the city’s main hospital for over 800 years and home to some of the region’s most impressive medieval frescoes.
Siena was the first in Europe to banish cars from its centre, and its central piazza, often called Europe's greatest medieval square, is the backdrop to the Palio, a biannual bareback horse race dating back to the 13th century and fiercely contested by riders representing the city’s different wards. Classical music concerts and the Siena jazz festival complete the cultural lineup.
Jason Jones, managing director of Italian Property, says: “This part of Tuscany remains an attractive proposition for buyers looking for a lifestyle purchase or a reliable rental investment – prices are remaining resilient despite the global crunch. With beautiful countryside, magnificent art and architecture, and some of Italy’s best wine, you can see why property is in such high demand with both native Italians and buyers from overseas."
Chiesa Provenzano is on the market at €1.6m. More details can be found at http://www.italianproperty.eu.com/property/2494/
Casa Bossi is on the market at € 670,000. More details can be found at http://www.italianproperty.eu.com/property/2195/
Villa Sonia is on the market at € 1.25m. More details can be found at http://www.italianproperty.eu.com/property/1434/
- Ends -
For further information please contact
Greg Bourne
Italian Property
T. +44 845 603 6651 / +39 0575 605191
E.
US press contact
Demian Dunkley
E.
Notes for editors
Italian Property was established in 1985 by British businessman, Anthony Dunkley. Based near Cortona in Tuscany, it provides a bespoke sales and renovation service in Tuscany, Umbria and Le Marche, with a network of affiliate agencies covering many of the country’s other popular regions.
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