Weddings in “Chianti Classico”, the Chianti region between Florence and Siena!


Chianti, world famous for its vintage wines, is an absolutely magnificent region of gentle rolling hills that maintains its beauty all year round.

Delightfully rural and endowed with every Tuscan charm, historically contested by both Florence and Siena, the Chianti region is probably the most well-known wine producing area in Italy.

The Chianti Classico area in the heart of Chianti is bordered in the north by the villages around Florence, in the east by the Chianti hills, in the south by Siena and in the west by the Elsa and Pesa valleys.

The Chiantigiana, or S222 , the 70 km long scenic wine route from Florence to Siena winds through a landscape of vineyards, olive groves, woodlands and farmland dotted by splendid fortresses, picturesque villages, castles, churches, abbeys and monasteries and
well known wine producing estates and villages such as Radda in Chianti, Gaiole in Chianti, Castelnuovo Berardenga.


The vineyards, mount of olives, woods and fields create a breathtaking landscape.
An ideal location for a unique romantic wedding!

Weddings in Greve in Chianti, Province of Florence

Greve in Chianti, one of the centres of the wine and olive oil trade, is a townlet that lies to the south of Florence between the Elsa and Arno rivers half way to Siena, with about 3000 inhabitants, the capital of Chianti since the 13th century. An annual wine fair is held in the middle of September in Piazza Matteotti where the new Chianti wine is presented to the public. Greve has a particularly attractive arcaded triangular piazza with a monument to Giovanni da Verrazzano , the explorer of the North American coast, characteristic shops, café’s and restaurants.


The Town Hall in Greve in Chianti is situated in the asymmetrical Piazza Matteotti opposite the church with a rough and smooth stone façade. Weddings are only celebrated on Thursdays and Sundays in the Council Hall, the most ancient hall in the Town Hall. The intimate wedding hall , completely furnished in wood, only holds a limited number of guests.
Cost of the renting of the Hal: 300,00 Euro (updated in November 2009)

---

Wedding in Radda in Chianti, Province of Siena

Radda in Chianti is a an ancient town in the midst of the Chianti hillsides,. It has 1.748 inhabitants and is situated 535 meters above sea level, characterized by up to 300 meters altitude differences in its territory.

Inhabited since Etruscan times, during the Middle Ages Radda suffered intensely from the bitter battles between Siena and Florence.
In the year 1250 the Florence Republic divided the Chianti Region into the three Leagues of Radda, Gaiole and Castellina and Radda became the capital of the so-called Lega del Chianti.

Radda has conserved its basic medieval structure and several buildings, such as towers, sections of the perimeter walls and the Podesta Palace.
Today, Radda is enjoyed as a favorite tourist vocation thanks to the Tuscan Eno-gastronomic tradition and to the historical treasures in the surroundings. Visitors will find nice little shops and good restaurants.

Civil Weddings:

The town hall, constructed during the XV century, is situated in the pedestrian area in the centre of the nice little square Francesco Ferrucci, below the Main Church fo San Niccolo.
In 1700, the reconstructed building was enlarged with the addition of the second storey and the prison, which today hosts a picture gallery.
Coats of Arms of local families cover the outside facade of the building.
The wedding-hall on the first floor is decorated by a a recently restored fresco of the Florentine school.
In summer, civil wedding ceremonies may take place outdoors, under the nice loggia, covered with frescos dating back to the 14th century.
Cost of the civil ceremony in the Wedding Hall or under the loggia: 600,00 Euro
(updated inNovember 2009)

---

Weddings in Castellina in Chianti, Province of Siena

The town, situated on a hill, 578 metres above sea level, overlooks the magnificent geometric landscape of vineyards, olive groves and oak woods.
In the 13th century, Castellina together with Radda and Gaiole, was part of the Chianti Alliance whose flag bore the emblem of the black rooster, today the Chianti classico trademark.
The village still preserves its 15th century urban layout with a main square dominated by the mediaeval fortress, later fortified by the Florentines, now the town hall and the enchanting arched covered walkway “Via dele Volte”.



Civil weddings take place in the great hall the “Sala del Capitano” in the historical fortress, the Rocca”.
Recently restored, the fortress is an ideal location for an intimate ,made to measure wedding ceremony and a perfect setting for wedding photographs especially in the tower with its mediaeval well. The bride and groom can also enjoy the view from the terrace and take a leisurely stroll along the famous “Via delle Volte”.
.
Weddings take place every morning from Mondays to Fridays and in the afternoon on Tuesdays and Thursdays and only on request on Saturdays.
Cost of the civil ceremony in the great hall the “Sala del Capitano”: 1.000,00 Euro
(updated in November 2009)

Some examples and proposals for the wedding venue:

There are many splendid settings for weddings in the Chianti Classico region. Here below you will find only a little selection of a few (from north to south).
For further recommendations please contact us and we will send you a tailor-made list.

1. 1. The Castle near to Radda in Chianti, a small 13th century medieval hilltop town , offers a spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding vineyards. It has two churches one of which was deconsecrated in 1932 today used for gala events. The narrow windy streets have kept their medieval plan radiating from the central piazza where there is an octagonal fountain and a delightful trattoria. Almost all the inhabitants have always worked in the wine trade and the so-called “vinodotto”, a network of underground tunnels connecting the buildings, are still used to store the grape must, for bottling and storing the wine and pressing the olive oil.
Modern technology in wine making combines with a medieval setting.

In the central part there are holiday apartments and a villa. Another two villas are available in the countryside offering views of the surrounding vineyards. All three villas with a garden and swimming pool accommodate up to forty guests and a few kilometres away there is a hotel for further accommodations.

Ideal for wedding ceremonies, the deconsecrated church holds up to 100 people whereas the surrounding gardens and swimming pool in the castle grounds holds up to 200 guests. The arrangements for the wedding reception will be done by our catering.

A magnificent setting for a fairy tale wedding!

back to top of page

---

2. Hamlet in the northern Chianti
This hamlet with its ancient villa and farmhouses is situated in a peaceful countryside of the northern Chianti.

It offers authentic Tuscan hospitality with rooms and flats for more than 70 guests, hosted in the 1700 manor house or in the stone cottages around the little square.

Smaller groups may rent the villa and enjoy an exclusive use of the great garden for their wedding-party.
The large spaces around the property permits to move around in plenty freedom and enjoy the beautiful landscape.

The restaurant is located where the farm used to press and produce olive oil since 1966. Today one of the old press in stone has been moved in the centre of the little square.


The complex of arches and wooden beams, typical of the Tuscan architecture, creates a warm ambiance, enriched by the courtesy of the service.


In the historical medieval cellars wine tastings are organized and it is a particular setting for a rustic welcome-party or the aperitif.
The medieval hamlet offers an unique atmosphere and is an ideal setting for a wedding in Tuscany to make your event truly unforgettable.

back to top of page

---

3. The small medieval village near Castellina, owned by a well known wine producer, is situated amidst vineyards and olive groves . The village, first manned in 1007, located half way between Siena and Florence, has been carefully restored and still preserves many of the original architectural features such as the terra cotta tiled floors, vaulted and wooden beamed ceilings, large open fireplaces and medieval troughs.
The six buildings have been converted into very comfortable, well-appointed apartments for a total number of fifty guests. The complex is surrounded by landscaped gardens, extensive lawns, a chapel, two swimming pools, a bar and an excellent restaurant with a terrace. Here you can relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of the beautiful Chianti countryside.
The restaurant serves excellent Tuscan cuisine traditionally prepared with fresh natural ingredients, home grown herbs, wine and olive oil of their own production.

An ideal location to savour fine food prepared by a professional staff enjoying
a cool breeze and the fireflies illuminating the warm Summer night!

Other five apartments are available on a hilltop 3 km away



back to top of page

---

4. Venue close to Castellina in Chianti
his charming hamlet lies in its own private estate covering 200 acres of prime Tuscan countryside, midway between Florence and Siena in the heart of the Chianti Classico grape-growing region.
It originated as a medieval nobleman's house, and developed as a wine farm from the 14th century onwards.
With all the major cultural and artistic centres on its doorstep, it is the ideal base for exploring the Chianti hills and Tuscany's famous attractions. The closest village is Castellina in Chianti, with a good choice of shops and restaurants, reachable in a 5 minutes drive by car or a half-hour walk.

All the apartments, accommodating two or four persons each have lovely views over the vines. They have maintained their rustic character and the furniture combines comfort and elegance, many items being made by local craftsmen. Each apartment has its own sitting-out area, with a table and garden chairs.
Most have either an open fireplace or stove, and the flat’s kitchen come fully equipped.
The nice little restaurant serves a good and rich buffet-breakfast upon a little supplement and traditional home-made Tuscan dinners twice a week. Cooking classes and wine tastings can be booked.

he wedding reception may take place in various places: starting with the aperitif in the courtyard, the dinner in front of the covered loggia and the open bar at the sun terraces around the swimming pool or vice versa. In any case you will enjoy a stunning view on the beautiful Chianti vineyards!
This oasis is an ideal setting for an informal, enjoyable wedding in a quiet and private atmosphere, looking over the breathtaking landscape of the surrounding countryside.

back to top of page

---

5. The 4-star hotel, situated close to Lecchi in Chianti, has been carefully restored by using natural materials. The villa offers 12 charming, comfortable, well-appointed rooms which are elegantly furnished in a harmonious blend of modern and rustic design.

Three well-equipped apartments, fifty metres from the villa, provide further accommodation for 12 guests. The entire complex, ideal for couples and families, accommodates up to 40 guests. There are further accommodation possibilities in the vicinity

The elegant villa stands as a contrast to the surrounding country farmhouses and yet harmoniously blends with the warm colours of the autumn vineyards.

The garden and grounds include an inviting swimming pool and a fully equipped well-being centre.
The exclusive restaurant offering several dining rooms serves the finest Tuscan cuisine prepared with local products.
The spacious terrace looking over the breathtaking landscape of the surrounding countryside is an ideal setting for an informal, highly enjoyable wedding reception and banquet.

back to top of page

---

6. An inviting avenue lined with cypress and juniper trees leads to a fairy tale castle and a Romanesque church that majestically dominates the magnificent Chianti landscape of open fields and vineyards . A haven of historical heritage and natural beauty, this is an ideal setting to totally unwind from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and savour fine vintage wines, freshly pressed olive oil and a thousand essences from the meadows and fields.
This stronghold, situated in the vicinity of Gaiole, first documented in 1269, still preserves its 15th century fortifications, round tower and courtly grace.
An enchanting place where many of the Italian nobility have celebrated their weddings may become the venue also for your wedding-party!


The castle halls decorated with frescoes, the splendid garden and terrace with a magnificent panoramic view of the gentle rolling Chianti hills are ideal for tailor- made wedding ceremonies.

Drinks in the garden, wedding reception in the castle or in the courtyard, dancing in the converted stables or vice-a – versa- drinks in the castle, wedding reception and dancing in the converted stables and a refreshing stroll in the garden….

This extraordinary location is absolutely enchanting - simply wander through the castle’s halls and admire the paintings and step into the 18th century theatre where a surprise concert can be arranged for you…



For religious or symbolic weddings the private chapel situated in the castle grounds is ideal for small weddings. For larger weddings there is a Romanesque parish church situated in the middle of the countryside just 2 km from the castle. Religious ceremonies can also be held in the park or in the castle halls.

Our specialized catering service offers homemade food for a large reception and for small weddings the food can be prepared in the castle kitchen

Accommodation for about 60-80 guests is provided in the rooms on the first floor of the parsonage adjacent to the castle and in the holiday apartments in the castle ground.

A prenuptial party, lit by torches and candlelight with medieval music and singing can be organised in the castle the evening before to add extra charm to your wedding celebration.

back to top of page

---

7. An absolutely charming 4-star hotel, situated in the Chianti Classico district about 4 km from Gaiole in Chianti, offers 14 well-appointed elegantly and comfortably furnished rooms. The spacious garden also includes a magnificent swimming pool on two levels with a refreshing waterfall and a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside, a whirlpool sculptured in stone by the owner himself, a sauna, Turkish bath and tropical shower.


The cosy restaurant with vaulted ceilings and furnished with elegant antiques
offers excellent Tuscan cuisine exclusively prepared with fresh local ingredients
and accompanied by a bottle of vintage wine.

Donato and Francesca are always highly appreciated for their
wedding banquets, prepared with great professional aptitude and love.

back to top of page

---

8. This castle near Gaiole dates from the 10th century and has recently been fully restored.
The guestrooms and suites are situated in the castle and castle tower; in the adjacent farmhouse there are spacious apartments at your disposal. A total of 50 guests can be accommodated at this location, and of course there are other lodging possibilities in the vicinity.




The uniquely beautiful and spacious bridal suite with whirlpool is situated in the top of the tower, from which you can enjoy a 360° panorama. The roof terrace can be enjoyed by all the guests. The accommodating staff of the castle add an informal touch to the elegant atmosphere. With an exclusive rent of the castle (with a minimum stay of 2 nights), you can celebrate to your hearts content.



There is a small restaurant, and the in-house catering professionally and skillfully takes care of all your wedding requirements.



back to top of page

---

9. A small romantic “Relais” hotel, situated in a 13th century tower, once the seat of the local Tuscan Governor , is idyllically located in the south of the Chianti region, not far from Siena.
This 4-star hotel offers just 4 suites, friendly hospitality and a cosy lounge where breakfast and excellently prepared evening meals are served.


The ancient tower hides a forgotten world. Although the kitchen is equipped with all the modern amenities, the style is definitely medieval, profusely infused with the intense aroma of old wine vats.

Modern luxury harmoniously blends with antique furnishings, a memory of its historical heritage.
Each suite, furnished with antiques, is dedicated to an historical personality and one of the beds actually belonged to the Medici family in Florence.


Wine is a permanent feature here at the “Relais” and not only for drinking but also as a therapeutic treatment! Here you can benefit from a relaxing, soothing bath imbued with wine essences scientifically proven to appease both the body and mind. A restoring, relaxing experience not to be missed!

This is undoubtedly an ideal location for memorable small weddings!
back to top of page

---

9. The carefully restored farmhouse, with a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape of vineyards and olive groves, is situated just 7 km from Siena in the vicinity of the thermal springs in Rapolano.

The farmhouse, that offers 10 well-appointed double rooms and 3 apartments furnished in traditional Tuscan style, is an ideal setting for weddings and an inviting location to prolong your stay.

The “Ristorante del Borgo” that seats up to 60 guests on the roofed terrace offers an exclusive menu specializing in Tuscan cuisine. The surrounding garden provides a more spacious area for larger wedding receptions shaded from the sun.




back to top of page