The cultural heritage of a region is often preserved in places that tell fascinating stories of people and passions. One of these places is Villa Chigi Saracini in Castelnuovo Berardenga, in the heart of Sienese Chianti. This residence is the focal point of a valorization project promoted by the Center for Chianti Studies “Clante,” through the publication of a book on the occasion of the centenary of the Foundation of the Chigiana Academy of Siena, with the valuable support of Savio Interiors.

The Story Behind the Book

The book, “Villa Chigi Saracini in Castelnuovo Berardenga: Count Guido Chigi Saracini’s Chigian Retreat – Le Roi de Sienne,” stems from the merger of two research projects promoted by the Center for Chianti Studies “Clante.” One focused on the figure of Count Guido Chigi Saracini, an extraordinary patron who was called “le roi de Sienne” (the king of Siena) due to his extraordinary commitment to culture and art. The other research project was dedicated to the villa in Castelnuovo Berardenga, owned by Count Chigi, which served as his retreat in the heart of Chianti. The villa and its park are the result of a series of interventions and enhancements over time. This book, based on archival sources, provides a detailed reconstruction of the various phases of their development. However, its goal is twofold. On one hand, it aims to commemorate the extraordinary figure of Count Guido Chigi Saracini and his contribution to the enrichment of Siena’s cultural heritage. On the other hand, it seeks to raise awareness of the need to restore and enhance this complex, which is currently largely neglected.

Savio Interiors’ Contribution

Savio Interiors is a staunch supporter of Sienese and Chianti culture and territory. The company actively participated in the creation of this book, which represents a form of patronage in support of local cultural associations, particularly the Center for Chianti Studies “Clante.” This center is dedicated to promoting the study of the Sienese and Chianti territory, with Professor Renato Stopani being the recognized historical authority on the subject. Stopani, connected by ancient friendship with the Savio family, emphasized the importance of supporting the study of a valuable asset that, despite its historical significance, has not yet been fully explored by academic research. Savio Interiors enthusiastically embraced this initiative, recognizing the importance of preserving and studying the territory and its heritage.

Villa Chigi Saracini in Castelnuovo Berardenga is a cultural treasure that deserves to be restored to its ancient glory. Thanks to the support of Savio Interiors and the passionate work of the Center for Chianti Studies “Clante”, this extraordinary place can be better known and brought to the attention of future generations, thus contributing to the enrichment of the region’s cultural heritage.

You can find the book in the menu or download it in PDF.