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Cafaggiolo Medici estate to become luxury tourism destination with €176M investment

architecture-design · 2026-05-05

The historic Medici estate of Cafaggiolo in Tuscany is set to undergo a transformation into a luxury tourism hub, thanks to a €176 million investment from the Lowenstein family via Lionstone. Regional president Enrico Rossi unveiled the project, which covers 385 hectares across Barberino di Mugello, Scarperia, and San Piero, and includes 14 farm units. Chief architect Emanuela Benedetti is leading the initiative, which will emphasize historical, cultural, sports, and wellness aspects. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2013, the estate will feature 356 suites, 14 restaurants, a cooking school, and a Medici Museum, alongside sports amenities like polo fields, equestrian centers, and a golf course. This investment is expected to yield €332 million in economic activity and create 2,780 jobs.

Key facts

  • €176 million investment by Lowenstein family via Lionstone
  • Project covers 385 hectares in Barberino di Mugello, Scarperia, and San Piero
  • Estate acquired 11 years ago, UNESCO World Heritage since 2013
  • Plan includes 356 suites, 14 restaurants, 12 bars, cooking school, Medici Museum
  • Competition for new contemporary art museum announced
  • Sports facilities: 3 polo fields, equestrian centers, soccer, tennis, golf
  • 30 km nature trails, adventure park, bio-pools, 3 spas, 2 therapeutic parks
  • Expected 2,780 new jobs; €332 million economic output in Tuscany

Entities

Institutions

  • Lionstone
  • Marzocco Investment & Development
  • Centro Studi Turistici
  • Irpet
  • UNESCO

Locations

  • Cafaggiolo
  • Mugello
  • Tuscany
  • Barberino di Mugello
  • Scarperia
  • San Piero
  • Florence
  • Italy

Sources