Fortezza di
Montecarlo

Ramparts, towers, loopholes, walkways, massive wooden doors and machicolations... Between the thirteenth and the sixteenth centuries the Rocca del Cerruglio - the fortress’ ancient name - witnessed many battles and enjoyed the presence of many well known historical figures such as John and his son Charles IV of Bohemia and Castruccio Castracani. A military building it may well have been at its origins, but the high walls of the fortress also serve to protect a beautiful Italian garden with a plethora of orange and lemon trees, ancient roses and acanthus. Now a manor house - converted from the original military stronghold during the eighteenth century - the Fortezza is a lovingly restored and passionately maintained centrepiece of Tuscan heritage.