In the heart of Tuscany, the Antica Canonica is on a country estate surrounded on all sides by beautiful unspoilt countryside.
The historical residence, which origins can be traced back to the eleventh Century, has been recently fully restored and has a rich and interesting history.
Originally a watch tower built in 1048, the building became the property of the church who transformed it into a Bishops residence and a medieval farming hamlet, later still the house and its grounds was used as a country retreat for many noble Counts and Dukes of the region.
The tiny hamlet was eventually abandoned, but now it has been lovingly restored, preserving its ancient heritage.
The Antica Canonica, full of charm, can give hospitality to 6/8 people.
The three halls are cosy and refined: the Bishop's, the coat of arms' and the big dining-room are furnished smartly with antique pieces, Persian carpets and valuable fabrics in perfect harmony with the millenarian atmosphere.
The magic of the three fire-places, the frescoes and the historical decorations together with the objects designed by clever craftmen complete the frame.


The Antica Canonica is on the first floor of the main building and was once the Bishops palatial rooms.
Great care has been taken in the renovation and the furnishings are luxurious and refined.
The original characteristics of the building have all been retained, beautiful high vaulted ceilings, archways, terracotta floors are all featured and the old beautiful fire-places keep the old glamour and suggest the idea that the time has stopped.
The three reception rooms are very welcoming.
All have traditional woodburning fireplaces, and are elegantly furnished with antiques, persian rugs and beautiful light fittings handmade by specialist craftsmen.
The Bishops lounge is the perfect place for relaxing with its large sofas, warm red fabrics, drapes and satellite television, and there is a second lounge with fireplace in the hallway leading to the fully equipped kitchenette and beautiful dining room.
This characteristic room has crystal topped banqueting table, upholstered chairs, fireplace and a beautiful reproduction of the famous Guido Riccio da Fogliano fresco, the original of which is in the Palazzo Pubblico in the famous Piazza del Campo in Siena.
Crystal glasses and fine china complete the refinery, creating the perfect atmosphere for a leisurely candlelit dinner

At the entrance to the villa is a small terrace with table and chairs which overlooks the estate towards the beautiful swimming pool and grounds.
The swimming pool (16m x 8m), surrounded by lawns and landscaped gardens framed by the rolling wooded hills beyond, is a lovely spot to relax and have a cooling dip.
Antica Canonica has its own private area at the pool furnished with sunloungers, table, chairs and barbecue.
Partly shaded and filled with flowers it is the perfect surrounding for an alfresco meal or just enjoying the peace and tranquility of the Tuscan countryside.
A stay at the Antica Canonica is also made of pleasant moments spent in the open: a swim in the swimming-pool, sunbathing in the magnificent frame of the wide park which surrounds the village, hikes and mountainbike rides accross the gentle hills of the area

The three bedrooms are extremely comfortable, each being exquisitely furnished in different colours, with soft fabrics, semicanopy beds and en suite shower rooms decorated with handpainted tiles.
A fourth bathroom near the bishops lounge boasts a large hydromassage bath tub two places.


When you can tear yourself away from this idyllic retreat, Antica Canonica is excellently located for exploring the area and discovering the delights of Tuscany.
San Gimignano, Monteriggioni and Volterra are all close by and the famous towns of Florence and Siena with their countless art treasures and historic monuments are easily accessible via the main road links at nearby Colle di Val d'Elsa, an interesting town in itself, being famous for its crystal production and medieval quarter.
In fact the owners of Antica Canonica have a lovely restaurant in the ancient hill town, featuring excellent refined cuisine, and with a large panoramic terrace for dining al fresco.
Guests at Antica Canonica receive a complimentary voucher offering 10% discount at the restaurant.
There is a further selection of local trattorias within easy driving distance of the residence, and it is also possible to hire a chef for the evening on request.