Rediscovering the Umbrian Renaissance

By Editorial Staff - 1 April 2025

Montepetriolo, a hamlet in the municipality of Perugia, is home to Borgo dei Conti, a five-star resort nestled in extensive private woodland. Its interiors were designed by Spagnulo & Partners. This location retains all the charm of its noble origins, offering guests a timeless, prestige hospitality experience.

Borgo dei Conti’s history dates from the Middle Ages, when the site was occupied by a fortress and a settlement of several hundred people. In the 19^th century, it became the property of Lemmo Rossi Scotti, Count of Montepetriolo and one of the most influential painters of his time, who oversaw its transformation into a residential complex. By the end of the century, the surrounding woodlands, including 600 olive trees, became part of the property. After the death of Tiberio Rossi Scotti, the count’s grandson, the complex had various owners until the Babini family bought it in 2002 and transformed it into a prestigious resort. The recent renovation, led by Spagnulo & Partners, has further enhanced its accommodation spaces through a sensitive balancing of history, art, and modern comfort.

Hotel Borgo dei Conti | © Diego De Pol

Nowadays, the resort includes extensive grounds with centuries-old oak and beech trees, the historic villa with its elegant accommodations, including ten rooms and 30 suites, and a nearby 20^th-century farmhouse. It offers guests two restaurants, the fine dining Cedri and the more casual L’Osteria del Borgo, as well as a bar and wine cellar. Set amid the greenery, a swimming pool is an ideal place to relax, while a wellness center offers treatments against a backdrop of panoramic garden views. Further outdoor spaces, including a botanical garden, apiary, tennis court, and playground, add further dimensions to the resort. Guests can take part in a wide range of outdoor activities, including starlit movies and picnics among the olive trees, as well as more intimate experiences, such as candlelit dinners in the woods.

Hotel Borgo dei Conti | © Dario Garofalo Immersa in un parco di maestose querce e faggi secolari, la tenuta offre un rifugio ideale per chi desidera connettersi con la bellezza e la storia dell’Umbria. Ad arricchire ulteriormente l’esperienza degli ospiti, la piscina esterna con solarium tutto intorno.

Inside, the colors, materials, and period frescoes create an exclusive and authentic atmosphere. Combining antique architecture with contemporary finishes, the interiors tell the story of the local area. Inspired by the works of Umbria’s Renaissance painters, they transport guests to a bygone age.

With the restoration of their original architectural elements, including large cast iron fireplaces, 19^th-century frescoes, and exposed rafters, the Suite del Conte and Suite della Contessa both capture local history and return the main floor to its former splendor. The design team entrusted local tradespeople with the job of reinterpreting the region’s artisan traditions to create design elements with local materials, such as handmade terracotta tiles, hand-carved natural stone, and handwoven fabrics. The villa has become a custodian of the region’s identity, offering guests a chance to experience the spirit of this unique place in the green heart of Italy.

Borgo dei Conti Resort | © Dario Garofalo

Borgo dei Conti Resort | © Dario Garofalo | The walls of Montepetriolo and the façade of the Borgo dei Conti resort tell a story that dates back to the Renaissance.

Borgo dei Conti Resort | © Diego De Pol | The ceilings with their exposed timber beams and the cast iron fireplace in the hotel lobby act as custodians of the area’s historical identity, offering guests a chance to experience the essence of this place in the green heart of Italy.

Borgo dei Conti Resort | © Diego De Pol | With a wide selection of drinks and spirits, the bar welcomes guests into the cool ambience of the historic courtyard. The restaurant features an iconic oval nest-shaped wooden table, creating a sense of intimacy and privacy in the room.

Borgo dei Conti Resort | © Diego De Pol | Occupying 120 sq. m, the Suite del Conte is the resort’s most spacious suite. Featuring the original coffered ceilings, period frescoes, and an elegant cast iron fireplace, this premier room is a celebration of the villa’s historic architecture.

Borgo dei Conti Resort | © Diego De Pol | In the Terrace Suite, elements of Umbrian tradition meet contemporary furniture. Large, bright spaces characterize this suite with its soft colors inspired by the Renaissance pictorial tradition.

Borgo dei Conti Resort | © Dario Garofalo | Every corner of the building conveys peace and tranquility. An area dedicated to socializing invites guests to relax and engage in conversation.

Borgo dei Conti Resort | © Dario Garofalo | Set in gardens with majestic centuries-old oaks and beeches, the estate is an idyllic refuge for people looking to connect with the beauty and history of Umbria. Further enriching the guest experience, a sunbathing area surrounds the outdoor swimming pool.

Location: Montepetriolo, Perugia, Italy
Client: The Hospitality Experience
Completion: 2024
Gross Floor Area: 5,430 m²
Architectural, Interior and Landscape Design: Spagnulo & Partners
Main Contractor: Edilumbria
Interior Contractor: Spaccapanico

Consultants:
MEP: L2I
Plant Equipment: Edilumbria

All images courtesy of Spagnulo & Partners

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