Palazzo Passerini Residenza, Cortona

Palazzo Passerini was built between 1493 and 1495 by Silvio Passerini (b. 1469) as a home base. Not much is known about the ownership of the property since Passerini passed away in 1529, but it is assumed it remained in the family for several centuries. It survived two world wars largely unscathed, and bullet holes fired by the fleeing Nazis can be seen around the front door (kept as a reminder).

A contemporary interpretation of ‘medieval’ luxury”

• Luxury private home in the heart of Cortona, Tuscany
• Beautifully renovated by its architect owners in collaboration with local artisans
• Sleeps up to 6 people in 2 suites and a smaller twin room

The property fell into considerable disrepair in the latter part of the 20th century when it was virtually uninhabitable. Enter then the great restoration carried out by the former owner Maria Giaquinto and her husband who bought the property in 2000.

In 2020 two architects who have been visiting Umbria and Tuscany for 20 years purchased the property, after falling in love with it at first sight. They lovingly updated the Palazzo intending to emphasise the handsome architecture whilst adding contemporary comforts. They re-designed and renovated with only the best local materials, products and artisans. The result is a stunning luxury, COVID-safe retreat for the discerning traveller looking for privacy, luxury and independence with a bespoke service found at only the best boutique hotels in the world.

Palazzo Passerini is ideal for small groups of 6, friends and family, to enjoy an authentic medieval Palazzo in one of the most beautiful medieval hill towns in Tuscany.

​FEATURES

• 2-bedrooms with super-king beds
• Additional mansard room with twin beds (can be made up as double)
• Bed linens woven locally by the world-famous Busatti factory (1842)
• Bespoke bathrooms with bathtubs
• Air conditioning and open fire places in living room and La Loggia Suite
• Beautifully appointed sitting room with fireplace
• 6-seater stone dining table
• Fully equipped handmade wooden & marble kitchen with SMEG appliances, including a 7-hob range cooker with 2 electric ovens, and integrated fridge with ice maker
• Italian ceramic crockery
• Fully stocked bar with built-in drinks chiller, working on Honesty basis
• Fibre optic cable internet boasting speeds up to 100Mb & a satellite WiFi backup system
• Mobile signal booster
• SONOS sound system in all rooms
• Walking distance to many points of attraction including Piazza de la Republica

ABOUT THE AREA

Cortona is a hilltop town near Arezzo in Tuscany, Italy. The film “Under The Tuscan Sun” was shot here and in the magical hills around. ⁠The city, enclosed by stone walls dating back to Etruscan and Roman times, sits about 600 metres above sea level and has commanding views across the Val di Chiana.⁠ ⁠The Etruscan Academy Museum displays a vast collection of bronze, ceramic and funerary items reflecting the town’s Etruscan past. Shop at some of the most elegant boutiques in town where one will find hand made bags, shoes, ties, hats, jewelry and perfumes. Just outside of Cortona’s walls you’ll find the Franciscan hermitage Le Celle, the first monastery built by Saint Francis of Assisi in 1211, where a small community of friars still lives today.⁠ Day and Night, this little town buzzes with curious travellers.

Palazzo Passerini and stunning Cortona provide the perfect base for exploring the wider Tuscan and Umbrian countryside and some of the greatest cities of art and culture – Montepulciano, Montalcino, Siena, Arezzo, Perugia, and Pisa to name a few.

The property is within walking distance of all of the bars and restaurants in Cortona and has plenty of activities. Cortona is surrounded by vineyards, fields of sunflowers and olive groves; and truffle hunting, foraging and olive harvesting can be arranged. Why not enjoy a hot air ballooning trip above the Tuscan hills and valleys? Or visit Santa Margherita at the top of the town or peruse the many art galleries. Food-lovers will relish a morning at the market choosing fresh, local ingredients.

For outdoors enthusiasts, there are plenty of lovely local walks and hikes to enjoy and amazing views to soak up at sunrise and sunset. Play tennis at the conveniently located Cortona Tennis Club overlooking the Val di Chiana or walk along the avenue of trees in the Parterre to the swimming pool. Hiking and Cycling are also among some of the favorite activities. An all year round town, Cortona lends itself to much activities especially in the arts from April to October.