While much of this Tuscan castle's history
has been buried in the past, it is believed it was once the family home of the
not-so-angelic Pope Alexander VII. Famous for his lavish lifestyle and
expensive taste, his legacy lives on at Castel Monastero, where guests can
indulge in three of the miscreant pontiff's greatest passions; art, wine and
food. For art, a short drive through the
Tuscan countryside will bring you face-to-face with paintings and frescos by the
Italian masters, while lovers of fine wine and good food will be lured by
devilish epicurean Gordon Ramsey to dine at one or both of the two restaurants
he oversees at Castel Monastero.
Luxury Loves
The chance to watch the electrifying Palio di Siena bareback horse race from the comfort of your own private window overlooking the Piazza del Campo.