AUGUST 2000 – The Borgo Antico Casalbosco, a so-called ‘Agritouismo’ near Pistoia in Italy, shortly before completion. © Mark Zanzig/zanzig.com
The story behind the image
During our road trip through Italy in the summer of 2000, we stayed for a night in the Il Convento, an ancient Franciscan Monastery, situated about 6 km (3.8 mi) outside of Pistoia.
The next morning we got up early, because we wanted to visit Pistoia, then move on to Florence and, finally, to Castellina in Chianti where we had booked an accommodation.
On our way to Pistoia we saw a small sign promoting an agritourismo, i.e. an active or former farm that offers accommodation for travellers. Back then we had no idea how an agritourismo would actually look like, so we took the turn from the S.P. 7 and followed the signs. When we arrived at the site, we found a beautifully constructed farm. However, we were very surprised to find the building deserted. There were neither cars nor people. The only sign of life was a single cat sleeping on an old wine barrel. The entire site looked like it was still under construction.
We were impressed by the beautiful architecture. Suddenly the owner appeared and asked for the reason of our visit. Petra explained (in Italian) how we got there. He nodded and explained that the agritourismo had not yet been opened. If we were interested, he would do a short tour through the unfinished property. Needless to say, we agreed. It was simply stunning, and we told him that this will be a very successful venture.
Looking at how the site has developed, I can only say: As expected, probably even better. Take a look at www.borgoanticocasalbosco.it. Staying there for a couple of nights in summer must be a dream come true.
Design ideas
The high resolution image
| Capture Date | 29-AUG-2000 |
| Location | Pistoia, Italy |
| Camera | Canon AE-1 Program |
| Image Source | Fuji Slide Film |
| Digital Image Source | EPSON Perfection 4870 Photo |
| Digital Image Source Format | TIFF, 48 bits/pixel, sRGB |
| Edited Image Format | JPEG, 24 bits/pixel, sRGB |
| Edited Image Dimensions | 6549 x 4433 Pixels |
| Copyright | © by Mark Zanzig/zanzig.com |
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