Villa Le Macine - Free Audio Guide

Villa Le Macine, located on via Casamorata in Florence, Italy, has a rich history that predates the year 1100. It was once owned by the marchesa Willa, noted for her connection to Ugone di Brandeburgo, a baron of Tuscany referenced by Dante Alighieri in the "Divine Comedy." In the late 13th century, the villa became the property of the Boni family and later the Boni-Tosinghi family, after a marriage between the two clans. Named "Le Macine" due to a mill that once existed on the property, the villa became embroiled in political tensions during the Medici rule. In 1530, following the exile of the Boni and Tosinghi families for their suspected affiliations with the republican opposition, the villa was confiscated by Cosimo I de' Medici. Throughout its history, Villa Le Macine transitioned through various owners, including the Conti family and later the Medici. It also housed notable figures such as Cardinal Leopoldo de' Medici and Livia Vernazza, a courtesan linked to Giovanni de' Medici. In 1815, the villa changed hands to the Feroni family and subsequently to the Biondi family. By 1824, the Casamorata family acquired it, undertaking significant renovations and constructing a small church, the Oratorio di San Raffaello. The villa faced decline in the late 19th century but was restored by actor Ernesto Rossi, who purchased it in 1881. Many archaeological artifacts from the villa were transferred to the National Archaeological Museum of Florence. The Rossi family retained ownership until 1928. Today, Villa Le Macine stands as a testament to Florence's rich historical tapestry, making it a noteworthy point of interest for visitors intrigued by the city's cultural heritage.