The Atrium & Central Hall

The Atrium is covered by an impressive and intricate glass dome, handcrafted by local artisans to adorn the original courtyard. The courtyard provided daylight to the inner halls of Villa I Busini and the existing glass dome still achieves this function today. 

After the Torre di Ghibellini (Tower of the Ghibellines), The Atrium is the tallest structure at Villa I Busini. It’s original window frame opens up to the Torre Di Ghibellini and, adorning the wall, is a Medici Coat of Arms tapestry alongside the early Peruzzi Coat of Arms with the 3 pears. 

Gaze up and be mesmerised by the beauty of the Tuscan sky, and notice the symmetrical natural stone columns of the Loggia in contrast to the soft tones of the wall. Every time you look up the view changes with the position of the sun, a passing cloud, a bird flying above, or with the shadow of the mullions of the dome upon the wall.

The 15th century iron money chest that weighs more than a ton, dominates the Atrium.

To the left of the Atrium lies Villa I Busini’s main hall. The intricate frescoes resemble polychrome marble panels and incorporate other Renaissance art techniques, such as Trompe-l'œil, which creates an optical illusion. 

The ever-changing light pouring in from the small double arch window reflects on the balustrade of the grand natural stone staircase, forming a grid-like silhouette and transporting you to another world. This play of light is accentuated by the dark coffered ceiling, decorated with golden rosettes. The larger than life statue—the  plaster bust from the Romanelli Gallery in Florence, dominates the hall and exudes a distinctly Renaissance impression.