The Locanda
In the 1930's, the village of Piazze became a mecca for many artists and musicians seeking a place of retreat and rejuvenation.
Arturo Toscanini (1867-1957) - one of the most celebrated and influential symphonic and operatic conductors in history - would travel from New York City as often as possible to be treated by a local doctor, Dr. Rinaldi, famous for his cures of arthritic pain.
The Salvadori/Tirabocchi family ran the only inn in the village of Piazze, and became very close with the Maestro.
In a letter sent by Arturo Toscanini on June 1, 1934 to Gelsa Salvadori, the youngest and most beautiful of the inn keeper's daughters, the Maestro wrote the following.
“Just think, dear Gelsina, that more or less all those who want life to be tolerable must make a little effort to pick themselves up and distance themselves from the banality and mediocrity of human society…We’ll talk about all this again in Piazze in a few days.Affectionately, AT"
(from Harvey Sach's book "Letters of Toscanini")
Piazze is still a place to get away from it all and step back in time.
Over years Rome-based Italian architect Michele and his journalist wife Courtney have restored this historic turn-of-the-century building and its adjoining olive mill into an inn with a lovely suite and comfortable rooms furnished with antiques and original frescoes.
Thanks to the efforts of many, including Fabio the electrician, Daniele and Andrea the fresco painters, Angelo (and crew) who did the structural work, Signor Guigliacci the plumber, Gabriele the engineer, Jimmy the floor layer, Signor Mario the carpenter (pictured below) 
and Signor Marcucci, who did the doors and special sound-proof windows – all under the guidance of Architect Michele – we are now open to the public. 
The English-speaking staff and Michele and Courtney can also help you organize your itinerary and reserve hiking and biking tours, visits to wineries and olive oil mills, cooking classes, garden tours, car tours (even Ferraris!) and visits to art galleries of local artists.
You will be able to relax in the natural hot springs in the middle of the countryside (in the picture) to admire the unique and most stunning landscape and of course we’d be delighted to arrange a visit to the wonderful healing thermal baths in San Casciano , where our guests have a discount.
