Lazio, Viterbo, Viterbo, Italy

A 17th-century palace with a 14th-century hermitage and chapel; plans have been approved for a 25-room boutique hotel, set amongst 3,000 olive trees and offering views of Civita di Bagnoregio, in the Tuscia region of Lazio REF. VIT333 In the most authentic heart of Tuscia in Lazio, just 90 km north of Rome, on a promontory overlooking one of Italy’s most extraordinary and frequently photographed panoramas — the Valle dei Calanchi, with Civita di Bagnoregio standing solitary on its tuff rock — stands the Castello dei Calanchi: a historic complex of rare uniqueness, where centuries of history intertwine within a landscape that has remained untouched by time. Access to the estate is via a picturesque avenue lined with cypress trees, which draws visitors into a sense of timelessness before opening out onto the estate, set amidst a park of pine and holm oak trees. The historic centre comprises three distinct and complementary elements: the 17th-century palace, which forms the main body of the residence; the 14th-century hermitage, an extraordinary rarity on private property; and the contemporary chapel, also dating from the 14th century, which lends the whole complex an unrivalled historical and spiritual depth. In addition to these are further outbuildings constructed in recent times, bringing the total built-up area to approximately 1,900 square metres. The 20 hectares of land comprise olive groves with around 3,000 trees, woodland of great value and an independent water source that ensures the estate’s complete self-sufficiency in water — a factor of considerable practical and environmental value in this context. The property has an already approved plan for the construction of an exclusive retreat and boutique hotel with around 25 rooms, dedicated to boutique hospitality, events and weddings. All preparatory work for the renovation has already been carried out, significantly reducing the time and uncertainty associated with a project of this scale. Upon request, it is also possible to take over a long-term lease agreement with an established German hotel operator, thereby offering the prospect of an immediate return from day one. Castello dei Calanchi is one of the rarest opportunities currently available in Central Italy: a historic property of the highest architectural and scenic value, set in a setting of international renown, with the planning permission process already completed and a revenue-generating potential that can be put into practice straight away. A timeless residence, for those who wish to create something extraordinary in the most authentic part of Italy.