real estate Florence

Why Florence Real Estate Is The Ultimate Cultural Investment: Living Steps Away From Priceless Renaissance Art

By Columbus International,12 June 2025

The Loggia dei Lanzi proves that in Florence, you don’t just buy property—you invest in proximity to irreplaceable cultural treasures worth billions, accessible 24/7 at no cost.

In the high-stakes world of luxury real estate, location has always been paramount. But what if that location offered something money truly can’t buy elsewhere: immediate access to priceless Renaissance masterpieces, displayed in the open air, available around the clock without admission fees or museum hours?

Welcome to Florence’s Piazza della Signoria, where the Loggia dei Lanzi serves as both an extraordinary open-air museum and a compelling case study for why investing in Tuscan real estate—particularly in Florence’s historic center—represents one of Europe’s most unique value propositions.

The $50 Million Museum That Never Closes

The Loggia dei Lanzi houses what conservative estimates value at over $50 million in irreplaceable sculptures, including Benvenuto Cellini’s bronze masterpiece “Perseus with the Head of Medusa” (1554) and Giambologna’s “Rape of the Sabine Women” (1583). Unlike traditional museums, this 14th-century loggia operates as a 24/7 cultural experience, with round-the-clock security ensuring these treasures remain accessible to residents and visitors alike.

For luxury real estate investors, this translates to a unique selling proposition: properties within walking distance of the Loggia offer buyers something no other global destination can match—immediate access to Renaissance art that typically requires museum visits, advance bookings, and entrance fees.

Market Fundamentals: Why Florence Delivers Returns

Recent data from Immobiliare.it Insights, in collaboration with LuxuryEstate.com, confirms that Tuscany’s luxury residential market remains among Italy’s most dynamic, with Florence and the Versilia coast commanding premium positions. The luxury segment continues attracting both Italian and international investment, characterized by:

Shorter sales cycles compared to standard residential properties
Increasing demand for quality, functionality, and strategic location
Sustained interest from international buyers seeking cultural proximity
Premium pricing stability in historic center locations

The Cultural Premium: Quantifying Intangible Value

Properties near cultural landmarks like the Loggia dei Lanzi command significant premiums for tangible reasons. The loggia’s strategic position—adjacent to the Uffizi Gallery, steps from Palazzo Vecchio, and overlooking the city’s most important civic square—creates an ecosystem of cultural accessibility that sophisticated buyers increasingly prioritize.

Consider the investment mathematics: While a luxury apartment in Florence’s historic center may command €8,000-12,000 per square meter, the cultural amenities effectively provide residents with unlimited access to experiences that would cost thousands annually elsewhere. The Uffizi alone charges €25 per visit during peak season, and advance reservations are often required weeks ahead.

Historical Resilience: A 650-Year Track Record

The Loggia dei Lanzi’s history offers instructive lessons for long-term real estate investors. Constructed between 1376-1382 for public assemblies, it survived the transition from republic to Medici rule, adapting its function while maintaining its architectural and cultural significance. This adaptability—transforming from civic center to outdoor museum while preserving its essential value—mirrors Florence’s broader real estate market resilience.

Even the tragic 1993 mafia bombing in nearby Via dei Georgofili, which targeted Italy’s cultural heart, ultimately reinforced the area’s significance. The attack’s failure to diminish tourism or cultural appreciation demonstrated the enduring power of Florence’s artistic legacy—a factor that continues supporting property values.

Investment Strategy: Proximity Equals Premium

Smart real estate investors understand that in Florence, distance from cultural assets directly correlates with investment returns. Properties offering views of or easy access to the Loggia dei Lanzi and Piazza della Signoria consistently outperform the broader market because they provide:

Rental Income Optimization: Short-term rental properties near major cultural sites command premium rates year-round
Capital Appreciation: Historic center properties maintain value during market downturns
International Appeal: Global buyers specifically seek cultural proximity
Lifestyle Value: Residents enjoy daily access to world-class art and architecture

The Tuscan Advantage: Beyond Florence

While Florence anchors Tuscany’s luxury market, the region’s broader appeal extends throughout areas like Chianti, Siena, and coastal destinations. However, Florence’s unique combination of Renaissance heritage, modern amenities, and international connectivity creates investment opportunities unmatched elsewhere in Tuscany.

The data supports this premium positioning: Florence luxury properties show stronger price stability and faster transaction times compared to rural Tuscan estates, largely due to the city’s concentrated cultural assets and year-round international visitor flow.

Forward-Looking Value Creation

As global wealth increasingly seeks experiences over mere luxury, Florence real estate represents a convergence of tangible and intangible value. Properties near the Loggia dei Lanzi don’t just offer accommodation—they provide lifestyle access to humanity’s greatest artistic achievements.

For sophisticated investors, the question isn’t whether Florence real estate justifies its premium pricing, but whether any other global destination offers comparable cultural return on investment. In a world where experiences increasingly define luxury, owning property steps away from Cellini and Giambologna masterpieces—accessible any hour of any day—represents an investment category unto itself.

The bottom line: In Florence, you’re not just buying real estate. You’re investing in permanent access to cultural treasures that define Western civilization, surrounded by a market ecosystem that has proven its resilience across centuries. For investors seeking both financial returns and lifestyle enhancement, few opportunities rival Tuscan luxury real estate anchored by Florence’s incomparable artistic heritage.

Source: Immobiliare.it

Tuscany: The Crown Jewel of Italian Luxury Real Estate Shines for Global Investors

By Columbus International,5 May 20255 May 2025

Columbus International, a real estate boutique with offices in New York, Miami, Milan, and Florence, serves as the ideal bridge between foreign investors and Tuscany’s prestigious real estate market.

The following statistics exclusively from Columbus International: Between April 5 and May 4, 2025, 7,000 potential buyers from New York contacted the agency for Tuscan properties, particularly interested in the prestigious Villa Covoni and a historic home in Settignano.

In the global luxury real estate landscape, Tuscany emerges as an unparalleled destination, commanding an impressive 20% of international searches according to LuxuryEstate.com. This leadership transcends mere statistics—it reflects a region that continues to captivate investors with its unique fusion of history, culture, and natural splendor that few locations worldwide can match.

The Tuscan supremacy is far from accidental. “Tuscany represents the quintessence of Italian excellence,” explains Paolo Giabardo, CEO of LuxuryEstate.com. “Florence offers an invaluable cultural heritage with its Renaissance masterpieces and architectural treasures, while the Versilia coastline combines sophisticated elegance with breathtaking landscapes, creating an investment opportunity that transcends monetary value and touches the soul.”

This phenomenon extends beyond the traditional allure of Tuscan vineyards and cypress-lined hills. The region has successfully evolved into a sophisticated investment ecosystem where historic palazzos stand alongside modern luxury villas, offering investors an extraordinary range of options. From restored medieval castles to contemporary waterfront properties, Tuscany provides a diverse portfolio that caters to the most discerning international clientele.

The competition for investor attention is fierce. Behind Tuscany, Lombardy and Lazio capture 17% and 11.5% of international preferences respectively. Milan and Rome, the economic powerhouses of these regions, attract investors who view luxury real estate not merely as a residence but as a strategic asset in an increasingly complex global portfolio. The appeal of these cities lies not only in their commercial significance but also in their ability to offer both lifestyle and financial returns.

Sardinia, securing 8.5% of preferences, completes the quartet of most coveted destinations. Its pristine beaches and exclusive developments have transformed the island into a luxury haven that rivals the French Riviera or the Caribbean. Meanwhile, Liguria and Sicilia maintain their strong appeal for second-home buyers (7.1% and 6.5% respectively), offering coastal properties that blend Mediterranean charm with modern amenities.

The geography of investors reveals fascinating patterns that speak to Italy’s enduring global appeal. Germany dominates the market in eight of the ten principal regions, reaching remarkable peaks in Trentino-Alto Adige (exceeding 50%) while maintaining a substantial presence in Tuscany (23%). This German preference reflects a long-standing cultural affinity and appreciation for Italian artistry and lifestyle.

Interestingly, France assumes a predominant role only in Lazio and Piedmont (14% each), suggesting a more focused investment strategy from French buyers. Poland emerges as an unexpected third player in searches for Sardinia and Sicily, indicating the growing wealth and international investment appetite of Eastern European high-net-worth individuals.

The metropolitan dynamics reveal unique characteristics: In Florence, Germany commands with 24.4%, nearly doubling France’s 12.4%. This disparity reflects Florence’s particular resonance with German culture and its historical connections. In Rome and Milan, however, Franco-German interest demonstrates more equilibrium, with slight margins favoring France (14.7% vs 14.2% in Rome, 11.2% vs 10.2% in Milan).

What makes Tuscany particularly compelling in today’s investment climate is its resilience and growth potential. Unlike many luxury markets that face saturation, Tuscany continues to offer opportunities for value appreciation while maintaining its exclusive character. The region’s strict preservation laws ensure that its historic and natural beauty remains protected, creating a scarcity value that discerning investors recognize.

The current market dynamics suggest that Tuscany’s position at the apex of Italian luxury real estate will only strengthen in the coming years. As global wealth continues to seek stable, tangible assets combined with lifestyle enhancement, Tuscany’s unique proposition—where centuries of art, culture, and natural beauty converge with modern luxury—positions it as an investment sanctuary that few regions can rival.

The message is clear: Tuscany is not merely a real estate destination; it represents an investment in la dolce vita itself, where history and modernity dance in perfect harmony, creating value that transcends traditional metrics and speaks to the aspirations of the world’s most sophisticated investors.

Source: Forbes Italy

The Hoxton to Open Second Italian Hotel in Florence

By Columbus International,1 April 2025

According to Monitor Immobiliare, the property on Via delle Mantellate in Florence, part of the Ricasoli fund managed by Kryalos Sgr, will soon house The Hoxton’s second Italian location. This development follows the successful launch of The Hoxton Rome in 2021, continuing the expansion of the English “open-house” hotel brand across Italy. Following extensive renovation work, the complex has been transformed into a boutique hotel featuring 161 rooms.

Paolo Bottelli, founder and CEO of Kryalos, stated: “The hotel industry continues to be a strategic asset class, especially in high-profile destinations like Florence, where international tourism drives constant demand for quality accommodations. We are excited to renew our collaboration with The Hoxton, after Rome, to breathe new life into this building, transforming it into a boutique hotel that combines contemporary hospitality with respect for the location’s history. The enhancement of iconic properties, preserving their identity and connection to the urban context, represents a fundamental principle in our investment approach.”

The arrival of The Hoxton in Florence underscores the continued appeal of Tuscany’s capital for international hospitality brands seeking to establish a presence in one of Italy’s most culturally significant and tourist-friendly cities. Located in a historic building on Via delle Mantellate, the hotel is poised to become a landmark destination for travelers seeking authentic yet contemporary accommodations in the heart of the Renaissance city.

Columbus International: Your Gateway to Premium Italian Real Estate

For investors seeking residential and commercial opportunities between the United States and Florence, the real estate agents at Columbus International represent an invaluable resource. Their deep knowledge of both markets positions them as the quintessential asset for international investors looking to navigate the complexities of cross-Atlantic real estate transactions.

Columbus International’s team of experienced professionals offers unparalleled expertise in the Florentine property market, providing investors with access to premium opportunities like The Hoxton project and other high-value developments in this historic city. Their comprehensive understanding of local regulations, market trends, and investment potential ensures that clients receive expert guidance throughout the entire acquisition process.

By bridging the gap between American investment capital and Florence’s prestigious real estate market, Columbus International continues to facilitate meaningful connections that benefit both investors and the local economy.

Key Highlights of Investing in Tuscany

Tuscany represents one of Italy’s most attractive regions for real estate investment, offering a unique combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and economic stability. Here are some key highlights for potential investors:

Strong Tourism Market

Tuscany attracts millions of visitors annually, making it an ideal location for hospitality investments. Cities like Florence, Siena, and Pisa maintain consistent tourism numbers throughout the year, ensuring steady income potential for hotel properties and short-term rentals.

Cultural Heritage Properties

The region offers unique opportunities to invest in historically significant buildings, many with protected status. These properties, like the one chosen by The Hoxton, often combine architectural importance with prime locations, making them excellent candidates for boutique hotels or luxury residential conversions.

Agricultural Estates and Vineyards

Tuscany’s renowned wine regions, including Chianti, Montalcino, and Montepulciano, present lucrative opportunities for agricultural investment. Vineyard estates combine income-generating potential with the prestige of owning iconic Tuscan landscapes.

Stable Property Values

Unlike more volatile markets, Tuscan real estate has demonstrated remarkable stability over time, with properties in prime locations consistently maintaining or increasing their value, even during economic downturns.

Renovation Opportunities

The region offers numerous historical properties ripe for restoration, allowing investors to create unique hospitality or residential spaces while preserving cultural heritage—often with available tax incentives for appropriate restoration work.

Expanding Infrastructure

Recent improvements in transportation networks, including high-speed rail connections and enhanced regional airports, have made Tuscany more accessible than ever, increasing property values in previously under-connected areas.

Columbus International’s agents specialize in identifying these premium investment opportunities throughout Tuscany, leveraging their extensive network and market knowledge to connect American investors with properties that align with their financial goals and personal preferences. Whether clients seek commercial ventures like The Hoxton’s expansion or residential properties in Florence’s historic center, Columbus International provides the expertise necessary to navigate Italy’s complex real estate landscape successfully.

Photo via The Hoxton / Instagram

Agenzia investimenti immobiliari | Firenze

Florence, former Majestic hotel reborn: new life for Piazza dell’Unità

By Columbus International,12 March 2025

After more than a decade of abandonment and decay, the former Majestic Hotel in Piazza dell’Unità in Florence will shine again by the end of April, transformed into a prestigious luxury hotel. The redevelopment project will not only return an iconic renovated building to the city but will also catalyze the regeneration of the entire square, which today is little more than a parking lot.

From symbol of decay to prestigious hotel

The structure, which extends over 12,500 square meters distributed across nine floors (three of which are underground), will be managed by the American hotel chain Marriott International under the “W Hotel” brand. The building’s history dates back to 1926, when another hotel of the same name stood in its place. The current construction, designed by architect Lando Bartoli and commissioned by Banca Popolare di Novara, was built in 1972 and inaugurated the following year. The bank occupied only the first floor and basement levels, while the rest of the property was used for hotel activities.

After closing in 2009, the building went through a long period of decline: from the failure of sale negotiations in 2014, to an auction in 2015, until it became a site of illegal occupations despite the installation of fences in 2011. The turning point came with the final acquisition and the start of redevelopment work in March 2022.

The new project: contemporary luxury open to the city

“Between the end of April and early May, we will inaugurate 60% of the rooms, while in June we will open the entire hotel, which will have a decidedly contemporary character,” explains Roberto Puccini, sole administrator of Progetto Majestic. The facility will house 119 luxury rooms, areas dedicated to wellness, and spaces for fine dining.

One of the most innovative aspects of the project is the creation of an internal courtyard that will be directly connected to Piazza dell’Unità through fully glazed entrances, creating a harmonious integration between the hotel and the surrounding urban fabric. “It has been a long journey: we purchased the property in 2015 and obtained permits in 2021, but finally in June we will cut the ribbon. We thank all the public offices of the Municipality of Florence and hope that the redevelopment of Piazza dell’Unità will proceed quickly,” adds Puccini.

A gastronomic and cultural hub

The ground floor of the building will house a large living area and two high-level restaurants: Trattoria Contemporanea, an established Milanese brand, and Akira Back restaurant, specializing in refined Asian cuisine. A particularly evocative element will be the former bank vault, destined to be transformed into a multifunctional space for events and a contemporary art gallery.

The architectural intervention, overseen by project manager Niccolò Falleri and works director Stefano Boninsegna from Studio Gla, is inspired by a contemporary style that enhances the large common spaces and strengthens the connection between the hotel structure and the city.

Economic and employment impact

The project will also bring significant benefits in terms of employment: “We will hire 140 people in Florence, and currently 170 workers are working for us directly, 80% of whom are from the local area,” emphasizes Puccini. This highlights how the redevelopment represents not just an architectural recovery but also an important economic investment for the entire community.

The rebirth of Piazza dell’Unità

Parallel to the redevelopment of the former Majestic, the municipal administration has planned a significant restyling intervention for Piazza dell’Unità, an access point to the city for millions of visitors. “We have allocated one million seven hundred thousand euros, which is in addition to the private investment for the redevelopment of the area in front of the hotel. The project includes the renovation of the roadway, the planting of new trees, and the installation of seating. We will share and present it to the citizens soon,” states Andrea Giorgio, Councilor for Security and Mobility.

The goal is to transform what is essentially a transit space today into a true pedestrian “living room square,” with new trees and rest areas that invite residents and tourists to fully experience this renewed corner of Florence.

“This change marks the rebirth of a place that has for too long been a symbol of abandonment,” concludes Aldo Cursano, president of Confcommercio Florence and owner of Caffè Le Rose located right in Piazza dell’Unità. “We thank the Municipality of Florence for its commitment to carrying forward the square’s redevelopment project and entrepreneurs like Roberto who are investing their heart and soul in this transformation.”

Source: La Nazione