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Villa Aurora is perched above Florence,
commanding the most magical views of the city and an
ambiance of days gone by.
The
breathtaking views enjoyed from the terraces of Hotel
Villa Aurora extend over Florence and the Arno Valley
and have inspired painters, poets and musicians for
centuries.
Hotel Villa Aurora offers its guests
that same welcoming refined atmosphere for which it
became famous during the 18 and 1900’s whilst
at the same time offering all modern comforts and convenience.
It’s past guests include an
impressive list of European royalty, there is a room
dedicated to Queen Margret of Savoy and another to The
Queen Mother Emma of Holland, both who stayed at the
hotel.
HISTORY: The hotel
started life as a theatre entertaining the British nobility,
built by Sir W. B. Spence. After the performances, the
wealthy English lord would entertain his guests and
the members of the ‘Walking Men’s Club’.
This
consisted of the many British citizens who would arrive
on foot from their nearby villas - inviting them to
refreshments at the ‘Hosteria’ (old Tavern).
This old tavern was
already a landmark on the city maps of the period, but
it was around that time that it became known as ‘Aurora’,
taking the name from the great fresco “L’Aurora”
by Guido Reni which adorns the façade of the
theatre.
At the end of the 1800s, the theatre
was transformed into a splendid villa much loved and
patronised by some of the most important figures of
European nobility. Guests to have sojourned here include
Queen Victoria of Britain, Empress of India, the Queens
Emma and Williamina of Holland, Queen Margherita di
Savoia of the Kingdom of Italy and the King of Belgium,
amongst others.
ACCOMODATION: The
rooms, carefully maintained in all their details, are
stylishly furnished and offer every comfort, including
air conditioning, direct telephone line, satellite TV
and mini bar. A Non-smoking floor is available.
With
in the hotel is also a Spa and Sauna (please ask in
advance) and a delightful solarium where you can bask
in the warm sun. Every morning the breakfast buffet
is available to guests, on the terrace in the summer
months.
THE RESTERAUNT: Along
with exquisite dishes from both regional and national
cuisines with a modern touch, guests can taste superb
wines from a wine list, boasting over 300 labels. The
restaurant offers elegant dining, with breathtaking
views of Florence. With its wealth of history and memories,
set in an enchanting natural environment, the most romantic
of atmospheres is created and enjoyed. Food preparation
is personally seen to by the family, the guardians of
their Florentine cooking tradition.
Sumptuous Flanders tablecloths, fine
white porcelain, refined silver table mats, delicate
crystal ware, and marvellous flower and fruit arrangements
adorn the tables. The owners are proud of their experience,
professionalism and courtesy.
THE KITCHEN: The
kitchens are furnished with modern equipment to guarantee
the quality and freshness of the food prepared, though
feature a traditional wood-fired oven to cook dishes
with the techniques and flavours of “times past”.
LOCATION:
Villa Aurora is in Fiesole, near to Florence
and with in easy reach of most important Tuscan places
of interest. The nearest airport is Florence airport
(under half an hour). Pisa airport is about one hour
and 15 minutes and Rome airports about three hours by
car.
OTHER FACILITIES AVAILABLE
NEAR BY: Tennis, golf, horse riding, bike riding,
hiking, wine tasting, fabulous dining, thermal spas,
Renaissance and medieval art and architecture.
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