Step inside this storied Umbrian palazzo and you’re in for a surprise…

The historic building is at the centre of the sleepy medieval town of Monteleone D’Orvieto. It was converted into smaller residencies in the 19th century, but fell into a state of serious disrepair in more recent decades, becoming derelict in the 1980s.

Its current owners, interior designer Patrizio Fradiani and his partner Mark, bought the palazzo in 2012, and set about restoring the building from top to bottom, stripping back decades of additions, wallpaper and plaster. In the process, historic hand-painted wall and ceiling frescoes were revealed, spanning the course of 400 years.

The first floor apartment, Mazzini 31, is now available to rent via Kid & Coe, and the pair have filled its frescoed rooms with contemporary furniture and finishes. Old terrazzo floors are juxtaposed with glowing coloured glass in the corridors and bedrooms, while Fradiani has added a touch of humour with bull headed towel hooks.

As well as three bedrooms, a large living room, kitchen and dining area, the apartment has a large adjoining terrace looking out over the Chiana Valley, and access to a library and spa with indoor pool and jacuzzi.

An added perk? Guests have access to the palazzo’s well-stocked wine cellar, carved deep into layers of volcanic sedimentary rock, and can drink their fill of 300 vintages.

Two hours from Rome and Florence, the property is the perfect bolthole for exploring the surrounding Umbrian and Tuscan towns and is close to restaurants and amenities in Monteleone.