Castello di Porciano
The tower of the castle, in addition to the owners' residence, houses a museum where objects from peasant life and archaeological finds related to the history of the Castle of Porciano are preserved. The museum is part of the Casentino Ecomuseum network.
Opening hours
The castle is open for visits between May 1st and October 31st, every Sunday from 10 am to 12:30 pm and from 4 pm to 7 pm, and during other months by appointment.
A brief history of Castello di Poriano
The Castello di Porciano is a medieval fortress located just above Stia. Its history dates back to the 11th century when it was originally constructed by the Guidi family, like the other nearby castles. Castello di Porciano served as one of their strategic strongholds, guarding the valley and controlling important trade routes.
Over the centuries, the castle underwent several renovations and expansions, reflecting the architectural styles prevalent during different periods. It was fortified further in the 13th and 14th centuries, adding defensive features such as towers and battlements.
In the 15th century, the castle came under the ownership of the Republic of Florence after the decline of the Guidi family. During this time, it served as a military outpost and was further reinforced to defend against external threats.
By the Renaissance period, Castello di Porciano lost its military significance and was transformed into a residential palace. Its interior was renovated in the elegant Renaissance style, featuring frescoes, tapestries, and other artistic embellishments.
The castle changed hands multiple times over the following centuries, with various noble families owning and occupying it. During the 19th century, it fell into a state of disrepair, but efforts were made in the 20th and 21st centuries to restore and preserve its historic significance.
The owners of Castello di Porciano
In 1963, Flaminia Goretti de Flamini and George A. Specht, the parents of the second last owner, Martha Specht Corsi, devoted themselves to the restoration of this Castle, completing the renovation work in the 1970s. After Flaminia Goretti de' Flamini passed the castle's care to her daughter Martha Specht, the property was lovingly maintained and taken care of.
But financially it became more and more challenging to maintain the castle. The pandemic made matters worse by making it impossible for visitors to stay at the holiday houses and forcing the museum, which had been open for more than 40 years, to close.
Consequently, Martha had to make the difficult choice to sell the castle. The castle has recently been sold to a young American couple with strong ties to the area, after their wedding in Poppi and honeymoon in Porciano, so even though this choice was difficult, she is optimistic. And Molly Conti and Will Volker are excited to keep protecting the site's historical legacy.
