History

  • The main challenge was to maintain the original character and history of the structure while attempting to change a deep and dark, rambling building into a series of light filled, flowing spaces suitable for a contemporary retreat.

    Following a thorough survey it became evident that an axis could be created to integrate the main features while orientating the future access to the seven suites. This axis followed the ridge of the mountain and was influential in the positioning of the pool and outbuildings.

    The public areas were placed in the centre of the tower acting as a pivot, with the suite access leading off either side. Natural light was brought into the heart of the building through top lit passages. As there were more vertical penetrations through the building the majority of the suites were designed as internal towers on two levels. This facilitated sunken baths on the lower floors and bedrooms on the first floor to maximise the surrounding views.

  • Rumour exists of a primitive Umbri worship site in the 8thC. The oldest part of the tower was built in the 9th century possibly as a farm building, its stone vaulted archway is now part of the North South axis leading to the pool.

    In the 12th century a tower was added to form a series of watchtowers protecting the route from Perugia to Gubbio.

    In the fifteenth Century with the defeat of the Baglioni family of Perugia who refused to pay the salt tax to the Papal states, the area came under the papal rule, a priest was installed in the tower with embellishments to the building such as the sign IHC in the stone lintel bridging the sitting rooms. At the time of purchase one quarter of the property still belonged to the church.

    In the 19th Century other adjoining structures were added, and some were converted into tobacco drying towers.

    In 1946 with the beginning of industrialisation in the Tiber Valley, and due to poverty and starvatio the inhabitants of Moravola moved down into the valleys, leaving the 'borgo' and surrounding areas. Fortunately some of the few remaining family members still visit the area to reflect on the past.