Villa I Collazzi

Villa I Collazzi is a Mannerist villa in Scandicci built on a rectangular terrace atop a hill with a U-shaped layout and a raised courtyard facing Florence. The structure features triple-sided double loggias that frame the views toward the city, and spacious interior rooms with barrel vaults that create a sense of grandeur.

The villa was built gradually for the Florentine Dini family, directed by architect Santi di Tito, a student of Michelangelo who brought new design ideas to the project. The construction unfolded during a period when Florence's wealthy families were creating grand country residences.

The main hall on the noble floor rises high and is covered by a barrel vault decorated with period artworks, showing how wealthy Florentine families displayed their status through art and design. The rooms reflect the way residents used these spaces for both daily life and entertaining guests.

Access to the property is through a cypress-lined avenue created in 1853, which provides an elegant approach to the residence. Visits require advance contact with the management to arrange timing and confirm what areas are accessible.

In 1938 landscape architect Pietro Porcinai added a rectangular pool with yellow and grey quartzite surfaces and pietra serena edges, integrating it seamlessly into the lawn. The pool was positioned to maintain clear views toward Florence rather than dominating the vista.