What good fortune Palazzo Torriani
One day I was walking through my town of Marradi I was struck by this lovely elegant lady. She seemed to know everyone in town. I was curious about this women and was compelled to find out who she was?
In my limited Italian I asked who is the women “Signora Elegante” (Mrs. Elegant). I had no idea of her name but when I asked the locals they all knew exactly who I was asking about. AnnaMaria Torriani she is one of the “famous” people of our town.
At some point about four years ago I was on the train from Florence to Marradi and who do I see AnnaMaria as luck would have it the seat next to her was open. She was so very kind to me and we chatted with my limerick Italian and her limited english. We worked on a conversation until we arrived in Marradi. When I left the train station that day I was overwhelmed at my encounter with “Signora Elegante” aka AnnaMaria. At the time I had no idea the fortune I would have by sitting in the empty seat nor did I understand what it would mean for my travel business as well.
After that day on the train from time to time I would meet AnnaMaria on the street and she would always acknowledge me plus everyone else in the street it is just how she is. Time goes by I have learned a bit more Italian and I feel comfortable speaking it gives me the courage to have a proper conversation with AnnaMaria. I learn about her life and her ties to Marradi the beautiful Palazzo Torriani where she and many of her ancestors have lived.
One day I ran into AnnaMaria on the street, she invited to her home! I was so excited but I tried to be calm, first of all she spoke to me in Italian and I understood! Second I was invited! Once you open the large wooden doors for the street you instantly realize you are someplace very special.
This is what I learned that day about Palazzo Torriani the Historic Home of Tuscany. This home of the Torriani family is over 500 years old. The family has welcomed European intellectuals and noblemen through out history. This home has been restored and renovated leaving out no detail. The family home has beautiful frescoed ceilings by 19th century Artist Galileo Chini. You can walk on historic floors while admiring Art-deco furniture along with numerous family antiques. This Palazzo has double rooms as well as fully furnished apartments.
What transpired from my encounter with AnnaMaria that day we became friends and collages. Clients of of mine have the opportunity to stay at Palazzo Torriani. AnnaMaria and her daughter Mariaemilia open their family Palazzo (stately home) for visitors and guests seeking the true “feel” of Italy. Offering a exclusive authentic Italian cooking class in there private kitchen can be arranged. AnnaMaria shares recipes and stories handed town through her family. After cooking an Italian meal we get a chance to enjoy the prepared meal (never disappointed). It is a wonderful experience that ends with plenty of authentic food, wine, laughs, and stories around the table.
So as you can guess I am thankful for the empty seat on the train allowing me to create my friendship with AnnaMaria “Signora Elegante” and all the wonderful doors that have opened for me personally and professionally.
Take a look below at the slide show of the fun we have at the exclusive one of a kind cooking class of Palazzo Torriani.
