Isn’t it enchanting, this little structure nestled amidst the Tuscan countryside? This, my friends, is the Fonte della Fata Morgana, the Fountain of the Morgan Le Fay. It’s a place steeped in history, magic, and a touch of Florentine whimsy. Built between 1573 and 1574, the Fonte della Fata Morgana was more than just a source of water. It was a garden sanctuary, a “Casina delle Fate” or “Little Fairy House”, nestled within the sprawling estate of Villa il Riposo. This villa belonged to Bernardo Vecchietti, a man of influence, advisor to Francesco I de’ Medici, and a connoisseur of art and alchemy. Imagine the gatherings that must have taken place here, amidst the gentle sound of water and the whispers of the wind through the trees. Vecchietti, a man of his time, chose to dedicate this fountain to Morgan Le Fay, the sorceress of Arthurian legends. Was it simply a whimsical choice, or was there a deeper meaning tied to the alchemical interests of the era? We can only speculate. What we do know is that the Fonte della Fata Morgana, with its rustic charm and enigmatic history, continues to enchant visitors just as Morgan Le Fay enchanted those who crossed her path in ancient tales.
Santa Lucia alla Castellina
“A sanctuary of art and faith””. You might say that about many places, but here at Santa Lucia alla Castellina,