VILLA SANTA LUCIA NUOVA
Luxury & Serenity Amid Tuscany’s Countryside
Born from a passion to preserve the land, our villa is a sanctuary designed to help you reconnect—with yourself, with nature, and with life’s simplest joys. For us, true luxury means silence, space, and the freedom to pause, reflect, and recharge your spirit.
Our story is deeply rooted in history, inspired by Dutch artists and Renaissance-era heritage where creativity flourished. Today, we continue that legacy by offering a peaceful escape from the noise, where every corner invites inspiration and every moment feels intentional. At Villa Santa Lucia Nuova, simplicity and serenity take center stage.
“At Villa Santa Lucia
Nuova, our guests are at the heart of everything we do. Our mission is to provide a retreat where you feel invited to experience and be inspired by the timeless energy of the past while staying truly present with yourself and the beauty of our natural surroundings. Here, you will discover that the essence of life is found in the here and now. ”
A TIMELESS RETREAT IN TUSCANY
Located in the breathtaking Chianti Classico hills, Villa Santa Lucia Nuova is a Renaissance masterpiece where history, art, and transformation converge. Dating back to the 13th century, the villa reached its current grandeur during the Renaissance. Previously called Villa Licia—a name given by an owner in the 1970s as a tribute to his girlfriend—the estate has now proudly reclaimed its original name, Villa Santa Lucia Nuova.
The property features a magnificent main villa, four additional buildings, a 17th-century church, a greenhouse, and beautiful gardens thoughtfully enhanced to blend historic charm with modern artistry. From 1988 to 2000, the villa served as home and studio to Dutch artist Karel Appel, a key figure of the CoBrA movement, whose creative energy continues to resonate throughout the estate. Renovations have carefully preserved its historic beauty while adding contemporary touches.
At the heart of the estate stands the Church of Santa Lucia, built in 1614 by Florentine canon Petro Nasi to replace an earlier structure. Over the centuries, prominent figures such as the da Vicano family and Cardinal Lorenzo Pucci helped shape the villa into a timeless retreat that harmonizes Renaissance elegance with modern refinement.
A LEGACY OF
CREATIVITY & VISION
Villa Santa Lucia Nuova is a sanctuary for artists seeking inspiration and peace that owes its unique character to the artists and visionaries who have shaped its story. Our luxurious estate carries a legacy of creativity, from the Renaissance visionaries who shaped their craft here to the bold Dutch abstract painters who redefined art. Today, Villa Santa Lucia welcomes a new wave of creators to merge tradition with innovation, building a vibrant community where imagination flourishes. Designed to foster collaboration and growth, the estate celebrates its rich artistic heritage while embracing the groundbreaking ideas of the future. Discover Villa Santa Lucia—a place where creativity and luxury come together for a truly transformative journey.
MEET THE VISIONARIES
Who Helped Shape Our Story
HENK VAN DEN BROEK
Henk van den Broek played a pivotal role in restoring the villa’s splendor. His vision brought contemporary art into the estate, combining it seamlessly with the gardens to enhance the property’s beauty. He also built and created the Renaissance garden, all whilst overseeing the restoration of key buildings, including the Church of Santa Lucia and the Santa Lucia Nuova apartments, enriching the estate’s cultural and historical significance.
KAREL APPEL
The renowned Dutch CoBrA artist lived and worked at the villa for over a decade, drawing inspiration from its rustic beauty. Known for his bold, expressionist style, Appel’s legacy lives on in the estate, including a striking horse sculpture displayed in the old lavender garden, symbolizing his deep connection to its grounds. Visitors can still feel his artistic presence throughout the villa today.
LUIGI CALLIGANI
Acclaimed Italian sculptor Luigi Calligani added a modern artistic touch to the estate with his elegant sculptures, which complement its historic setting. His works, displayed throughout the gardens, reflect the villa’s perfect balance of tradition and contemporary creativity. Each piece invites visitors to pause, reflect, and connect with the artistry of the space.
THE GARDENS
A Timeless Blend Of History & Art
The gardens, much like the villa itself, are a harmonious blend of Renaissance heritage and modern artistry. Henk van den Broek’s vision brought them back to life, incorporating elements of contemporary art to enhance their historic charm. Among the estate’s treasures is a sculpture by Karel Appel, a vivid reminder of its artistic legacy.
Today, Villa Santa Lucia Nuova is more than an estate—it’s a celebration of history and creativity. A sanctuary where the past meets the present, offering a unique retreat for those who appreciate timeless elegance and visionary artistry.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
PRESERVATION & CONSERVATION
At Villa Santa Lucia Nuova, we take great pride in preserving and conserving the rich history, art, and landscape of our esteemed estate. Our dedicated team of skilled workers possesses a profound passion and love for the land, understanding the intricate connection between the past, present, and future of our villa. Each member of our staff cherishes the contributions made by every generation of owners, and they diligently strive to preserve and honor each part of our estate with unwavering love and care.
Not only do our devoted team members safeguard the physical aspects of the estate, but they also play a crucial role in educating and guiding our esteemed guests, helping them fully immerse themselves in the unique surroundings. We believe that every part of the historical fabric of Villa Santa Lucia Nuova plays a significant role in shaping its identity today. It is through this deep-rooted philosophy and understanding that we uphold our commitment to preserving the heritage and essence of our luxurious estate, ensuring an authentic and principled experience for all who visit.
