How to reach
From Florence, follow Viale de Amicis to the locality of Ponte a Mensola where you take Via di Vincigliata that leads directly under the castle.
History
The Vincigliata Castle is a historic fortress located on the hills of Fiesole, near Florence. Its history dates back to the medieval period, with the first documented records appearing in 1031. Initially belonging to the Visdomini family, the castle later passed to the Cattani da Diacceto family and then to the Alessandri family, one of the oldest and most influential families in Florence.
After changing ownership several times over the following centuries, the castle gradually fell into ruin until it was purchased in the 19th century by John Temple Leader, a wealthy Englishman with a passion for medieval architecture. Captivated by the history and beauty of Tuscany, Leader decided to restore the castle to its former glory. The restoration work, commissioned to the architect Giuseppe Fancelli, took place from 1855 to 1885 and was executed in a neo-Gothic style, with particular attention to historical and architectural details. Temple Leader transformed Vincigliata into a charming residence, surrounded by gardens and enriched with numerous works of art. The courtyard still features some heraldic shields from the era, and the interior is adorned with a cycle of 14th-century frescoes from a chapel in Via della Scala, Florence.
During World War II, the castle was used as a prison for high-ranking British officers captured by the Germans, including the notable prisoner General Archibald Wavell. Today, Vincigliata Castle is a site of historical and cultural interest, often used for events, weddings, and receptions. Its panoramic location offers breathtaking views of Florence and the surrounding countryside.