10 bedrooms castle, 1220 m²

Mercatello sul Metauro, Pesaro and Urbino (province)

Among the sweet hills of the Marche region stands an enchanting castle, part of a small medieval village known for being the setting of one of the decisive events in Dante Alighieri's life: exile. This castle, of great historical importance, is now a refined luxury organic farmhouse, located a short distance from Urbino and currently for sale. The property covers an area of 1,000 square meters spread over six buildings, arranged on different levels, and includes a private garden of 3,000 square meters, enhanced by a hidden pool, immersed in the tranquility of nature. The fortified village, perfectly restored, preserves its historical and architectural features intact.

The heart of the village is defined by a picturesque medieval tower, flanked by dark stone houses lined up and the graceful seventeenth-century church dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, with its modest bell tower. This charming village was one of the defensive structures that made up the ancient protection system of the surrounding area. In 1250, 41 locations were part of this province, often in conflict with each other. The castle has witnessed numerous historical events, including Uguccione della Faggiola's victory over Branca Brancaleoni in 1353, the subsequent return of the Brancaleoni, and the rule of Cardinal Albornoz. But the most famous episode related to the castle concerns the meeting, on October 4, 1301, during which Charles of Valois and Corso Donati, according to the tradition reported by the Chronicle of Dino Compagni, decided the exile of the Florentine poet Dante Alighieri. A plaque, placed on the castle tower, still commemorates this historic event today.

The property, now transformed into a luxury farmhouse, is ideal for those seeking a refuge away from the city frenzy, immersed in a landscape of rare beauty. A fascinating cobbled stone road crosses the village, passing between the houses up to an arch that closes the village, connecting two buildings. The houses, enriched by wrought iron grilles and doors decorated with intricate wood carvings, retain all the rustic charm of the time.

The castle, the focal point of the medieval village and witness of Dante's exile decisions, is composed of stone buildings, an ancient tower, and a still consecrated little church. The farmhouse houses a restaurant inspired by the Supreme Poet and has nine guest rooms, all with private bathrooms, each furnished with great care and attention to detail. There is also an independent 170 square meter apartment. The property's interiors are enriched with antique fireplaces, stone floors, and wooden ceilings with exposed beams, which preserve the structure's historical charm. The furnishings consist of collections of antique furniture, valuable paintings, and prints. The room windows offer enchanting views of the surrounding woods. The pool, reserved and secluded, overlooks the imposing rocks that frame the castle, creating an atmosphere of absolute relaxation, immersed in the scent of aromatic herbs and surrounding fruit trees.

This valley of the Marche region, covered by lush forests, is strategically located between the Adriatic Sea and the Apennines, bordering Romagna, Tuscany, and Umbria. It is an ideal place to explore central Italy, rich in historical villages, castles, and beaches. Urbino, a Renaissance city of extraordinary beauty, is nearby, as well as Montefeltro, with its ancient fortresses and manor houses.

In 2004, this village was awarded the Orange Flag, a prestigious recognition for tourism and environmental quality, thanks to the perfect preservation of its architectural and landscape heritage.