The Podere Grande Colle Ramole, as Dimora Ghirlandaio was once known, is one of the most fascinating spots on the Florentine hills. The beauty of its nature, the gentle climate, and the view of Florence set in the surrounding hills make this tiny Tuscan hamlet a truly unique spot. Between the Fifteenth and Sixteenth centuries, the Ghirlandaio family chose this as their favorite location to seek refuge from the stress of the city and produce some of the works that have made the fame of the family’s painters.
Today, Dimora Ghirlandaio preserves the radiant beauty of its Renaissance past, enhanced by centuries of historical and artistic heritage and the quality of the modern renovation work. In the house that once belonged to the Ghirlandaio family, you will be able to spend your Tuscan holiday amidst buildings, halls, and gardens that once belonged to great artists. Villa Ghirlandaio, La Fattoria, La Bottega, Il Frantoio, Lo Studio and La Limonaia have been finely restored respecting their traditional structures. You will be able to relax in the reflections of the magnificent swimming pool, let yourselves be lulled by the song of nature, and sample the excellent specialties of this territory.
Cappella Ghirlandaio and its Precious Frescos
Inside the Dimora you will also be able to admire the Cappella Ghirlandaio, a chapel devoted to the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin. Built for the family’s private use, the chapel is decorated with magnificent frescos by Ridolfo, the most famous among Domenico’s children. To pay homage to the members of his family, Ridolfo portrayed them in the frescos painted in 1518 circa, beginning with the large central fresco depicting a Madonna and Child. His father Domenico and his uncle Benedetto, but also his wife Contessina and two of his children appear in the recently restored chapel’s frescos, a further testimony of the precious art of the Ghirlandaios and of the prestige they had acquired in the Medici’s Florence.
Art and History
Within the name of Dimora Ghirlandaio is the history of the family of famed Renaissance painters: Domenico Ghirlandaio, his brothers David and Benedetto, and his son Ridolfo. Here the family came to relax and meet other famous guests and artists, from Raffaello Sanzio to Michelangelo Buonarroti. Acquired by the marquises Pannocchieschi d’Elci at the end of the Seventeenth century, in the Nineteenth the Dimora was purchased by the Agostini family. The careful restoration work carried out by today’s owners, who acquired the estate in 2010, makes it possible to rediscover its value and the creative atmosphere of intellectual ferment that animated the Florentine Renaissance.
Area and Local Products
A stay at Dimora Ghirlandaio is also an occasion to enjoy local pleasures. The natural paradise of the Park offers the ideal setting to relax and meditate. The excellent local products, among which the Italian extra virgin olive oil produced in Dimora Ghirlandaio, are the complement of an unforgettable Tuscan experience. A magical experience to live with your family, with your friends, or during a high-level business trip.
