Villa Franceschi

“A ‘disastrous opera’?” someone once wrote about Villa Franceschi. Yet here we stand, before its imposing facade, ready to judge for ourselves. Villa Franceschi, once known as Palagio de’ Martelli, whispers a tale centuries old. Its history winds back to at least 1360. Back then, it was described as a simple “palagio” or “meleto” – a manor house amidst apple orchards. It belonged to the heirs of Francesco Forzelli, a partner in the failed bank of the Peruzzi family. Over time, the property changed hands, passing through the Giraldi family in the 15th century and later to the Martelli family. By the late 19th century, it had found its way to the Franceschi family, who already held estates in Mosciano. It was Dr. Franceschi who envisioned a grand transformation, draping the villa in the attire of neo-Gothic style. Today, we see the legacy of that vision – the crenellated tower, a touch of the Guelph style, standing as a proud testament. Within the villa’s embrace, an elegant courtyard welcomes us with its graceful porticoes and family crests. The rooms whisper secrets of the past, adorned with restored frescoes and echoing the tastes of the late 19th century. Look closely, and you’ll discover remnants of a bygone era – 15th-century doors and magnificent stone fireplaces. Nestled within the Villa Franceschi is a charming chapel, a testament to faith and family, dedicated to Christ himself. Though the neo-Gothic overhaul drew criticism for its theatrical air, today, Villa Franceschi stands as a testament to time’s passage. It’s a tapestry woven from different eras, each leaving its own indelible mark. Now divided into apartments, it offers a glimpse into the lives and aspirations of those who called it home.