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le calvane history

The History

Le Calvane Luxury Estate is gracefully perched atop the hills of Montagnana Val di Pesa, in the heart of Tuscany, just 20 kilometers from Florence and neighboring the storied Castle of Montegufoni.

The estate’s origins trace back to 1135, when Florentine forces destroyed the Montegufoni castle and claimed the surrounding lands, including what is now Le Calvane.

A timeless retreat rooted in beauty, history, and the art of Tuscan living.

In 2011, Le Calvane was acquired by a group of international entrepreneurs united by a deep passion for fine wine, Italian heritage, and all things beautiful. Their vision was clear: to breathe new life into a historic estate while preserving its soul and centuries-old connection to the land.

Following an extensive restoration, Le Calvane was reborn—carefully renovated to maintain its authentic character, architectural elegance, and rich historical legacy. Today, it stands as a refined haven in the heart of Tuscany, where tradition meets contemporary luxury.

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1305

1305

In 1305, Leo Acciaioli, a prominent figure of the time, commissioned the construction of the Church of Santa Maria Nuova in Montegufoni and the Oratory of Our Lady of the Snows—built on the very site where the Villa now stands. While remnants of these historic structures were visible until the 18th century, they have since been lost to time.

1815

1815

In 1815 Le Calvane was bought by Matteo de Frescobaldi, who resumed the traditional wine and oil production for which the estate has become renowned over the years. The fertile soil and favorable position have combined since ancient times to favor the production of fine aromatic olive oil and other exquisite agricultural products.

1942

1942

In 1942, several hundred paintings from the Uffizi, the Pitti and other galleries, including Botticelli’s Primavera and works by Michelangelo, were hidden here to save them from the perils of war. None of the paintings were damaged, except for a large, circular painting by Ghirlandaio which the German troops used as a dining table as they passed through on their way from Montegufoni. The paintings were returned safely to their respective galleries in 1945.

1980

1980

In 1980 Le Calvane was bought by a Swiss family who convinced famous winemaker Vittorio Fiore to return to Italy, where he remained at Le Calvane until 2005, establishing the reputation of the wine production.

Following the departure of the oenologist the family let most of the vineyards to their neighbors, the Frescobaldi family, who used the grapes to produce wines sold under their own label.

2011

2011

In 2011 Le Calvane was sold again, this time to a small group of international entrepreneurs and local aficionados of the history of Le Calvane, who were aware of the specific features of the location and vinification methods, and recognized their potential.

Once the purchase was complete, the new owners invited Vittorio Fiore to return, and he commenced a strategic replanting process over several hectares, using mainly Merlot and Cabernet grapes.