Castello Il Palagio

Castello Il Palagio ─ Tuscany’s Timeless Castle for International Weddings

Location:
Castello Il Palagio is located in the heart of Chianti, in the countryside of San Casciano Val di Pesa, about 17 km from Florence, surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and ancient churches. Its address is Via Campoli 96-98, 50026 San Casciano Val di Pesa, FI.

Historical & Architectural Heritage

• Originally a medieval fortress (13th century), mentioned since 1252, with strong defensive importance between Florence and Siena.

• Restored in neomedieval style starting from 1910 under architect Giuseppe Castellucci for the Marquis Ugo Goretti Miniati. The restoration preserved and enhanced features like the tower with Guelph merlons, the crenelated façade, and the central courtyard with a covered loggia.

• Owned by the Lapi family in recent times, who have continued careful restoration and maintenance.

Venue & Facilities for Weddings & Events

• Capacity & Spaces:

  • Central courtyard + loggia: up to approximately 180-200 guests seated for receptions.

  • Hall of Arms (interior) holds ~70 guests seated; to be combined with other spaces for larger setups.

  • Other internal halls (Guard of the Courtyard, Red Hall, Yellow Hall) for smaller portions of the event (preparations, welcome drinks, wedding party).

• Ceremony Types:

  • Private chapel within the castle for very intimate and spiritual ceremonies.

  • Civil ceremonies also possible on the property.

• Outdoor Settings:

  • Gardens (Italian style), parco surrounding the castle, fountain garden, ancient olive trees, the driveway entrance.

  • Loggia and courtyard for cocktail hours, welcome receptions, dancing under the stars.

• Adaptability:

  • Setup can include tents, removable covers, decoration themes.

  • Internal rooms for bride/groom preparation, photography (first-floor rooms offer scenic views).

Wedding Experience & Hospitality

• Luxury and Personalization:

  • The castle offers personalized wedding décor, lighting, themes as per couple preferences.

  • The feeling of marrying “like royalty” in a classic Tuscan castle, surrounded by the hills, vineyards, architectural heritage.

• Guest Experience:

  • Guests can enjoy the drive through Chianti, local wine tastings, olive oil tours, exploring nearby historic churches, villages and cultural landmarks.

  • Local flavors: Tuscany cuisine, wine from Chianti vineyards, artisan produce. These contribute to welcome dinners, aperitifs, tasting experiences.

• Scenic Photo Opportunities:

  • Historic architecture: tower, loggia, ancient walls, interior halls.

  • Landscapes: vineyards, olive groves, Tuscan rolling hills, nearby Romanesque churches (Santo Stefano a Campoli, Santa Cecilia a Decimo, San Pancrazio, etc.)

The Chianti Territorial Context: Valuing the Land & Culture

• Immersion in Tuscan countryside: panoramic views, the scent of vineyards & olive trees, gentle hills. This connection to nature forms part of the wedding’s ambience.

• Access to cultural richness: Near Florence & Siena; ancient churches; Chianti wine culture; proximity to towns like Greve, Radda, Castellina.

• Local artisans and foods: weddings here often include local wine, olive oil, seasonal produce, Florence desserts, etc., giving guests an authentic taste of Tuscany.

Practical Details & Logistics

• Proximity to Major Hubs: Only ~17 km from Florence, making airport transfers easy for international guests.

• Contact Information: Via Campoli 96/98, 50026 San Casciano Val di Pesa, FI; email: info@castelloilpalagio.eu

• Accessibility: Parking available; structure has multiple indoor and outdoor spaces to adapt for weather; some internal halls for backup.

Ideal Wedding Scenarios at Castello Il Palagio

Here are sample wedding formats that maximize what this venue offers:

1. Elegant Micro Wedding (≈ 50-70 guests): Ceremony in the private chapel, cocktail hour in courtyard, dinner in Hall of Arms, dancing in courtyard or loggia.

2. Grand Reception (≈ 150-200 guests): Full courtyard + garden dinner setup, large marquee or tents if needed, live band under tower, fireworks (if permitted).

3. Wedding Weekend Immersion:

   • Day before: rehearsal dinner with local Tuscan menu + wine tasting in vineyard.

   • Day of wedding: full reception as above.

   • Day after: brunch and guided tours to local Chianti towns, olive groves, wine estates.