Historic Bed & Breakfast
Questionnaire
Year erected: 1500
What is the history of the property?
The original construction dates back to 1500 but the actual aspect of the villa today dates back more to the 1800 s when the Nottolini family purchased the villa and built the Annunziata chapel for the public seating 110 people.At the time of construction the Vorno village road ran in front of the chapel but in 1910 the Commune Di Capannori privatised this access.
What was the era and/or the architectural style in which the property was built?
Original construction in 1500 but
The neo classical style of today was effected by Lorenzo Nottolini, architect of the Lucca aquaduct and court architect to the city of Lucca during the time his family owned Villa Nottolini now Villa Michaela.
Is the property surrounded by other historic buildings?
Yes.
There are many other famous villages in Vorno mainly neo classical
There is a celebrated "passegiata" round the village to view
"Le Ville Di Vorno"
Has restoration work taken place?
Yes.
When purchased by the Rhode family in 1984 there were no bathrooms, central heating or air conditioning.
There are now 17 bathrooms and the villa and other houses are fully centrally heated and air conditioned.
Are there any elements of particular historical importance at the building?
Considerable works were undertaken by the present owners between 1984 and 1989 restoring beautiful frescoes which had been painted over during the war.
Are there any important guests or previous owners worth mentioning?
Lorenzo Nottolini court architect to Lucca lived at the villa owned by his family in the 1800 s.
Under the present ownership of the villa the owners have received an ex First Lady of America for several consecutive years as well as many film stars and writers.
Ken Follett,Kevin Bacon etc
Are there any significant events that took place at the property in the past?
Villa Michaela Gia Nottolini has hosted many weddings of family of prominent English politicians , authors, actors etc.
There have also been some memorable opera recitals in our Nottolini chapel which seats 100 and has a superlative grand piano and acoustics.
Has the property received any certifications for its historical status?
Yes.
It is recognised by the Commune Di Capannori as a listed building and also by Dimore d'Epoca and ADSI - Associazione Dimore Storiche Italiane.
Would you describe your property as (or has it ever been in the past) a: Is there anything that you would like to highlight, add or clarify?
Greenest tennis court set in the olive grove with superlative views.
Situated directly in the via Francigena the centuries old Pilgrim route from Canterbury to Rome.
