A 500-Year-Old Italian Fortress Overlooking the Sea Hits the Market in Tuscany

For buyers looking for scenic surroundings, privacy and robust home security, this newly listed 16th-century fortress in Italy might be appealing.

The imposing stone compound, built on a cliff 100 meters above sea level and towering over its neighbors, is on Capraia, an unspoiled island in the Tuscan Archipelago, a chain of islands off the western coast of Tuscany.

(This Italian fortress is on the market. LIONARD)

Only 3% of the island is inhabited, while the remaining 97% is a national park and the sea surrounding it is a marine sanctuary, according to Lionard Luxury Real Estate, which announced the listing last week. Its price is available on application.

(It has light-filled living spaces. LIONARD)

Known as Forte San Giorgio, the property was built in 1540 and was “designed to house the entire population in case of need,” according to the brokerage. In the centuries since, it has served as a watchtower, a fortified village, a military citadel, a prison, a private residence, a youth camp and even a nightclub before being abandoned for some 40 years.

(The dining rooms has a beamed ceiling. LIONARD)

Starting in December 2006, the property underwent a long and careful restoration and today has almost 16,800 square feet of living space across its five buildings, the firm said.

(The kitchen was designed in collaboration with a Michelin-star chef. LIONARD)

Inside, the fortress combines “ancient and modern, in a mix that is decidedly successful,” according to the listing.

(There is exposed stonework. LIONARD)

There are large bright living spaces, and details including beamed ceilings and exposed stonework can be found alongside including a kitchen designed in collaboration with Michelin-star chef Riccardo De Pra, a 30-seat dining room, a yoga and fitness room, a game room, a home theater, a reading room, 16 bedrooms and impressive sea views.

(There are two pool, one of which is an infinity pool at the highest point of the property. LIONARD)

Mansion Global couldn’t determine the owners, or when or for how much the home last changed hands.

(There are plenty of outdoor entertaining spaces. LIONARD)

Ref: A 500-Year-Old Italian Fortress Overlooking the Sea Hits the Market in Tuscany (mansionglobal)

Photo Credit: Lionard