Tuscany, Pisa, Volterra, Italy

Magnificent home, full of history, in a beautiful portion of an historic building, set in a medieval village, just a stone's throw from Volterra. Spacious and all on ground level, with a great connection between the inside and the external courtyard, just perfect for socialising and for 'alfresco' dining. As well as the main home there is a separate 'dependence' or guest unit, large garage, laundry room and store room. Private parking. Easy to 'lock up and leave'.

The property consists of a large living room with a wonderful fireplace and original brick vaulted ceiling which dates back to the 1300s with the coat of arms of the lily, an authentic historical preciousness perfectly preserved; from the living room you enter the large well-equipped kitchen/diner with quality finishes in solid wood with a travertine top and also a pantry; further there is a master bedroom with private bathroom, another bedroom, plus a large family bathroom. There is a spectacular terrace, which enjoys privacy with a 55 sqm 'loggia' for outdoor dining with a wood-burning oven for bread and BBQ and with a breathtaking view of the hills and valleys.

The main entrance is located under a beautiful arch, a brick and stone gallery, and opposite is the entrance to the 'dependance', the guest unit. This comprises a large studio apartment, also with vaulted ceilings, which is equipped with a splendid kitchen with travertine top; a bathroom with shower and there is potential and plenty of space to add a double bed here. Ideal for guests.

There is a private parking space and below the main house is a well-finished garage with stone floors, another double garage/ store room which houses the central vacuum system and laundry room. This communicates with an ancient wine cellar and from here there is a wooden spiral staircase up to the main house. Central heating with gas. There are no condominium fees.

The medieval village is made up of private homes, mainly inhabited by local professionals as well as some local and foreign artists. It is well-know as part of a trekking route to discover the nature, art and history of the region and is just 2 km from Volterra on a good, paved road. Volterra is particularly renowned for its unique urban layout that reminds us of its Etruscan origins: people can still visit part of the majestic protective walls built during the 5th to 4th centuries BC - including the well-preserved Porta dell'Arco and Porta Diana, two gates for entering the city - as well as the Acropolis that houses several buildings and the foundations of two ancient temples. There are many Roman remains to visit as well, like the Roman Theatre, dating back to the end of the first century AC, built in a natural amphitheatre. Stroll down the historical centre, step back in time and enjoy the timeless atmosphere that surrounds the town: taste the local produce and visit the handicraft workshops, where you'll find beautiful hand-crafted objects made from the natural alabaster, which is special to the area.

Volterra passed under Roman control and changed its name into Volaterrae (where the modern name comes from); later, it fell under Florentine supremacy until the town passed under the Grand Duchy of Tuscany before finally becoming part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1860.The town's narrow medieval streets and its central piazza will make you fall in love. You'll appreciate the beauty of the 13th century Palazzo dei Priori which sits tall over the piazza, as well as the Palazzo Pretorio across the square. The August 'Volterra AD 1398' festival, held on the middle weekends in August, is a highlight. During these weekends, Volterra is as it was in the late 14th century, recreated with shows, events, markets, workshops, music and juggling.

The town is located in the Valdera region of Central Tuscany between Pisa and Florence where this colourful landscape of rolling hills dotted with medieval villages, castles and lanes flanked with tall dark green cypress trees, epitomises the Tuscan landscape. Meandering through the countryside of Valdera you feel the vestiges of the mysterious Etruscan civilization. In Lajatico the famous tenor, Andrea Boccelli, has created the 'Teatro di Silenzio' where natural landscape creates a breathtaking setting for an open air music and opera festival attracting top musicians from all over the world for special performances. Casciana Terme has thermal waters and spa facilities and is a pretty town with piazzas and cafès serving the local wine. The città d’arte (cities of art) nearby include San Gimignano, Palaia and Florence all of which offer wonderful history, art and architecture.

Distances: Volterra 2 km, Lajatico 20 km, San Gimignano 30 km, Casciana Terme 30 km, Pontedera (trains, supermarkets) 40 km, Cecina (beaches) 40 km, Siena 60 km, Pisa (airport) 70 km, Florence 80 km.