The recently restored old villa had, thanks to its commanding position, an optimal control over the commercial routes that ran from Pisa to Volterra and Siena. According to the first papers dated back to 855 A.D., the parish church, at that time owning to the diocese of Lucca, played initially a leading role because of its considerable estate and its control over fourteen suffragan churches.
During the 14th century frequent wars made slowly weaken the power of the parish church as felt as too dangerous, so that population was forced to prefer fortified castles in the neighbourhood. As a matter of fact the Church, in ancient time known as Parish Church of Santa Maria a Suvigliana, gave up celebrating ceremonies in 1466.
In 1575 the bishop of Lucca commissioned the restoration and renamed the parish church into "San Marco a Suvigliana".
In 1622, any benefit were paid furthermore to the Cathedral of San Miniato and as a result of this abolition, the parish church was converted into an oratory.
In about 18th century the left aisle collapsed, whose original foundations have been dug out further to a recent restoration.
In 1819 the bishop Pietro Fazzi ordered the oratory's desecration and its conversion to his private residence.
The villa, owned by bishop's revenue of San Miniato until beginning 20th century, was purchased by Prof. Rachah who, soon after the second world war, converted the residence in an agricultural school for young Jewish bound to be moved to Israeli Kibbutz.
In 1992 the estate has been purchased by San Marco Company and still today owned by this company.
Villa San Marco preserved its admirable magnificence till today, thanks to the ownership who longed for an expert architectural restoration and who is keeping today the villa available for anybody to stay on, tasting our land's most genuine and pleasant flavour.
Villa San Marco is a historical dwelling of high artistic-cultural interest, whose origin is dating back to nearly 1200 years ago.
Enjoy and live on the fascinating past in Villa San Marco. Our suites are exclusive and suggestive accommodation, all of them unique and fit out in refined style with antique furniture and precious fabric. The ideal atmosphere to spend unforgettable moments while surrounded by countryside's typical colours and fragrances. And in the morning ... after a tasty breakfast, also served at room, you might keep up your relaxation just in the heart of Tuscany.
The wonderful park surrounded by the breathtaking Tuscan countryside is the ideal frame for this impressive estate. The ancient guest quarters and stables will be soon converted in a further hall of 900 square meters suitable for any sort of event.
This latest restoration among flowerbeds and Italian garden will enlarge the prestigious Restaurant.
Details make the difference : each table has an elegant setting, made up with precious and personalised fabric. Professional waiters wearing uniform and white gloves will welcome you and take care about you.
The exclusive menu based on an expert search among local and international tastes, presents refined plates served with mastery and fantasy.
Special role is dedicated to wine as Villa San Marco is boasting a precious cellar with more than 400 excellent wine sorts.