PALAZZO GATTAI APARTMENT
Central Florence
Sleeps 4 in 2 bedrooms/2 bathrooms, elevator building — STAFF FAVORITE!
What guests say about this villa....“An extraordinary experience! Palazzo Gattai was absolutely lovely. The owners were so hospitable and warm, and they gave us something to take away from our trip that was invaluable. ” — C.S., Des Plaines, IL ...More comments
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This incredible and beautiful palazzo is located on a green square in central Florence, where you will find a playground with walks and park benches under a canopy of trees, surrounded by residential palaces. The Duomo is an easy five-minute walk, while Florence's historic synagogue is just around the corner. A wonderful variety of shops, coffee bars, restaurants and bakeries can be found in the neighborhood, and there is a wonderful open-air market nearby Piazza S. Ambrogio.

Enter from the street into a marble-floored reception hall that leads to a private walled garden. Take the stairs or the elevator to the second-floor apartment, originally the noble family quarters.

As soon as you cross the threshold, you feel as if you have stepped into the past. Furnishings are family antiques, and the walls are decorated with original paintings by artists represented in the Uffizi. Although the apartment is neither modern nor luxurious, it is very special and represents a rare and unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic Florentine aristocratic style.

The living/dining room is notable for its elaborate décor and elegant detail. Walls are covered in silk and the high ceilings are frescoed. There is a fireplace at one end of the room and a dining table at the other. Large windows overlook the garden. The kitchen is old-fashioned, with a high frescoed ceiling and a stone sink, balanced with modern conveniences including a dishwasher, microwave and clothes washer.

There are two bedrooms (one with joinable twin beds and one with queen) and two bathrooms (one with tub and one with shower). The bedrooms are large and furnished with dressing tables, ample closet space and large windows. They are exceptionally quiet since they overlook the garden at the rear of the palazzo. You are more likely to hear birds singing in the garden than you are to hear any traffic noise.

On request, two additional guests can be accommodated on a sofabed in the living room. On the same floor as the apartment, there are two elegant formal salons; they can be rented for receptions. There is also a spectacular covered terrace on the top floor, which could be rented by guests for catered dinners or receptions.

The charming architect owners speak some English and are eager to make their guests feel welcome. Francesca has lived in the palazzo all her life and now resides on the top floor in a spectacular apartment designed by her husband. She teaches history of architecture at the University of Florence and is a willing resource for anyone fascinated by Florentine architecture.

Palazzo Gattai is equipped with ADSL high speed Internet access for your convenience.

2010 Prices

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