General Description
San Francesco is a rare treat for history aficionados seeking a slice of undiscovered Italy while staying within fast striking distance of Umbria’s most relished attractions. Originally built as a nobleman’s palace during the High Renaissance, San Francesco has carefully maintained its architectural integrity both inside and out. The furnishings, mostly quality heirlooms dating to the 1500s, are coupled with original art to create an impressive illusion of stepping back in time. For a more convincing effect, guests should bring their own armor and period costumes.
Abundantly large for two couples, the townhouse features a formal reception hall, a comfortable living room, a dining room for eight and an eat in kitchen for six with a large working fireplace. One of the kitchen’s retaining walls, once part of a Roman fortress is well over 2000 years old! While being unabashedly authentic, San Francesco is not without conveniences. Guests may surf the Internet on the house PC, enjoy English language movie channels on a plasma television and tool around town on the two bicycles provided. Larger groups desirous of this location should consider renting Terziere and Palio just across the way.
A small space just off the kitchen is furnished as a breakfast nook for four.
Children under the age of 12 are not allowed, and smoking is strictly forbidden. Meals and cleaning service may be arranged when booking.
Trevi, a sleepy town known for its exquisite olive oil, awakens each morning at 7 am with the pealing of a 13th century church bell. The pleasant chimes are heard faintly and are a bit more noticeable in the bedroom with two single beds.
A few parking spaces, shared with the olive oil museum, are behind the building, and when full, other lots are in 100 yards. All parking in town is free. Within 200 yards are four restaurants, a small grocery and a museum of modern art. Friday is market day. During the month of October, Trevi comes to life with three distinct celebrations. A medieval tournament takes place on the first Sunday and is followed by the Sausage & Black Celery Festival on the third Sunday. The festivities culminate with a fair featuring food from the Middle Ages on the fourth Sunday.
By car, Montefalco's wines are 15 minutes away; Spello or Spoleto: 20; Assisi: 25; Todi: 35; Perugia: 40; Orvieto: 60; Rome, Florence or Siena are all within two hour drives.
Technical Description
First Floor: Formal reception hall with ornamental fireplace. Living room with ornamental fireplace, TV, CD player and laptop. Dining room. Kitchen with stove top, oven, fridge, fireplace and door to small patio. One bedroom with a queen size bed, loft with gym equipment and en suite bathroom with tub and hand shower. One bedroom with two single, joinable beds, loft with a single bed and en suite bathroom with shower.