Situated in the heart of Cortona, the hotel San Michele is a slice of history that stretches back to the 11th century. The structure was originally part of the old fortifications, and, during the 12th century, it was turned into the town house of the Marquis of Monte St. Maria. In the early 13th century the use of the building changed, it became the Palace of Justice presided over by the Podestà, and at some stage during this century it then became the residence of the Priors of St. Vincent.
The original appearance of the building during the 12th and 13th centuries was a rectangular structure with perimeter towers. During the 15th century the house was gifted to the Baldelli family by the Florentine Republic, and the current appearance of the building dates from their ownership. During the 16th century the Baldelli family undertook the final major structural modifications that the building saw - the remnants of the demolished towers can still be seen in two of the stairwells. Despite considerable changes undertaken during the 17th century the building is still essentially a 16th century structure, as the facade clearly shows.
Such a beautiful and stylish hotel is the ideal place to base yourself to explore the wonderful hill town of Cortona. To find out more about the town itself click on the Cortona link below (please use your browser back button to return to this page).
Don't hesitate to find more booking details on this hotel in Cortona, Italy.
