Once home to the noble Rucellai and Salviati families, art critic Ugo Ojetti, and even the headquarters of Stanford University in the Eighties, the 15th-century Il Salviatino has resurfaced from a two-year makeover that has brought the striking edifice up to contemporary five-star standards without losing any of its inherent charm.
The historic library lined with old books is said to be where Salvador Dalì and Gabriele D’Annunzio held their cultural salons, while the frescoed ballroom boasts a vermilion and gold canopy, plus an outdoors-indoors theme that is a hallmark of the Tearose Group, helmed by art director Alessandra Rovati Vitali.
Former owner Ojetti had the original Italian gardens replanted in the 19th century and they still beguile today. Breakfast and dinner at the Giacomo al Salviatino restaurant are served on the pebbly terrace above the symmetrical rose beds, terracotta jars and pietra serena fountains. At night, renowned Milanese restaurateur Giacomo Milano serves flawless cuisine focused on the freshest fish in a joyful addition to Florence’s food scene.
