Dardano Country House · Cor432

A Historic Medieval Watchtower Estate Near Cortona Set within the enchanting countryside surrounding the ancient art city of Cortona, Dardano Country house is far more than a luxury Tuscan residence. It is a rare architectural treasure, a former medieval watchtower transformed into an elegant stone estate where centuries of history meet refined contemporary living. With its imposing stone structure, noble Renaissance details and extraordinary private grounds, this property offers a truly distinctive opportunity for international buyers seeking authenticity, privacy and heritage in one of Tuscany’s most desirable locations. A Noble Renaissance Legacy The soul of Dardano Country house lies in its remarkable historical details. Inside the residence, a majestic stone fireplace bears the original coat of arms of Pope Leo X, Giovanni de’ Medici. Historical research links the property to the noble Passerini family of Cortona and to Cardinal Silvio Passerini, a close confidant of the Medici Pope. Above the main entrance, a small period coat of arms carved in fine pietra serena welcomes guests, offering a powerful reminder of the estate’s distinguished past. Historic Architecture Across Three Levels The property extends over approximately 430 sqm of commercial space and is arranged across three levels, preserving the atmosphere and proportions of an important historic Tuscan residence. The ground floor and historic cellars feature a restored ancient oven and generous vaulted spaces full of character. These areas offer exceptional potential for the creation of a private club room, wine-tasting area, wellness space or exclusive SPA. The first floor is accessed through a charming covered loggia, wrapped in lush Virginia creeper. This level opens into a spacious and highly functional modern kitchen, connected to the main reception room with the impressive Medici fireplace. The Ancient Tower Wing Adjacent to the fortified structure, the ancient tower wing reveals some of the property’s most fascinating architectural features. Here, a charming room with a second stone fireplace and uniquely shaped windows recalls the character of buildings dating back to before the 1500s. On the upper floors, the sleeping area includes four elegant bedrooms and three bathrooms. The second-floor windows are enriched by historic internal stone seats, a refined feature typical of important period residences. The top level is crowned by a beautiful Gothic window finished in traditional terracotta brick. Private Park, Historic Vines and Swimming Pool Outside, Dardano Country house is surrounded by approximately 40,000 sqm of private land, creating an atmosphere of absolute peace, privacy and natural beauty. The outdoor living areas are designed for relaxation and contemplation, with a beautiful shaded area beneath three magnificent historic vines, the most important of which is over two centuries old. The private swimming pool is immersed in greenery and complemented by charming stone annexes, including an ancient granary near the pool. This building offers excellent potential to be converted into a pool house or an independent guest dependence. A striking stone buttress remains visible on the façade, preserving the memory of the estate’s original role as a fortified tower. Comfort, Privacy and Exceptional Potential Dardano Country house combines the prestige of a historic architectural landmark with the comfort of a residence ready to be enjoyed. The property includes air conditioning, independent heating, a private swimming pool, historic cellars, a single garage, covered parking and extensive private grounds. Its layout, annexes and historical character make it ideal as a prestigious private residence, a refined countryside retreat or a high-end hospitality investment for the international market. A Rare Piece of Tuscan History With four bedrooms, three bathrooms, reception rooms, historic cellars, private parkland, swimming pool and remarkable Renaissance details, Casale Dardano stands apart from the classic Tuscan farmhouse. It offers the privilege of owning a genuine piece of Italian history — a noble stone estate linked to the Renaissance, immersed in privacy and located just minutes from the cultural heart of Cortona.