Anagni, Frosinone, Lazio, Italy

Villa Tartaruga is a striking and elegantly designed villa, in an ideal position: only 40 minutes from Rome, and minutes from the historic centre of Anagni, the setting is nonetheless quiet and private, without being isolated. The large living areas of the villa open seamlessly to covered and open outdoor spaces, which in turn give way to the extensive grounds. The large 'cantinas' (above ground cellars) are ideal for those who would like to follow one of the previous owners in making their own wine, honey, preserves, flour, hams etc. The carefully chosen mix of modern and natural materials allows the villa to blend seamlessly with its setting, and the extensive roof terraces allow a sweeping view of the valley below Anagni. There is also a separate guest suite/caretaker's apartment.

The drive sweeps down to a large courtyard, with the tortoise pool from which the villa takes its name. To one side is the entrance to the large garage, and to a further large courtyard for visitor parking if you are entertaining. Further paths lead to a smaller side courtyard, and round the house to the first garden and the terraces. A staircase leads up to the roof terraces.

The main entrance, with its unusual stained glass canopy and elegant carved wood door leads into a hallway, where you will immediately see the combination of modern materials and beautiful woodwork that is such a feature of the villa. The dining room, living room and a further entrance area from a side door are all semi-open plan to each other. The large sitting area has a cosy brick fireplace for winter, and both it and the dining area have open onto the covered terrace for summer. The study, with more warm wood, also has large windows onto the garden. The kitchen is ideally located to serve both the dining area and the terrace. A further family sitting area, with a charming iron stove, opens directly into the garden. There is a also a guest w.c.

The master bedroom is approached along a corridor lined with solid wood wardrobes. The room itself has its own dressing area, as well as an ensuite bathroom. Originally there were three guest bedrooms, however the wall separating two of them has been removed (although it could be reinstated), so at present their are two guest bedrooms on this level, one large, one very large, as well as another bathroom. All the bedrooms have wooden furniture that has been made specifically for them. There is also a laundry room.

The lower floor has a very large entertainment room, with fireplace, bar and billiards table. This room has doors directly into the garden. There is a further bathroom, a large garage, and a number of 'cantina' rooms.

A door to one side of the main front door leads into the fully equipped guest or caretaker's apartment.

The roof terraces are made all the more striking by the lovely copper roofing used throughout. The large covered terrace mediates between the interior of the house and first garden: a few steps lead down to a further area, originally with an arbor, which might be suitable for a swimming pool. Paths lead on to the vegetable garden and to the fields.