The origins of Monterone Castle date back to the 13th century - Set upon a hill on the doorstep of Perugia it was probably a guard tower in medieval times and some scholars believe that there is a relationship between the Castle and the Templar Order since one of the most important Templar churches of Europe - San Bevignate church - is just 500 meters away - The Castle has undergone some changes over the centuries - the last structural change was made in 1885 when a new wing was added - There are several unique stones set in the internal and external walls including pieces of Etruscan and Roman sarcophagi - Medieval and Renaissance coats of arms and profane and religious symbols - Included among the most precious works in the Castle are a 15th Century fresco - a 14th Century wooden crucifix and a manly head dating from the 1st Century BC - Today - after almost 4 years of sympathetic restoration - the Castle is an Historic Residence that offers 18 enchanting rooms on 4 levels - a restaurant - 3 common rooms and a library - The lounge bar walls are covered with wood paneling and the ceiling is painted with medieval coats of arms and insignia - The Castle has an elevator and huge panoramic terraces - The furnishings are made using the materials of the Umbrian tradition - terracotta floors and wood and wrought iron for the furnishings - All rooms are individually furnished and feature ensuite marble bathrooms with either a shower or Jacuzzi bath - Free WiFi access is offered in all rooms - Outside there is a cloister with secular oaks - a rose garden with many different varieties of roses and a vast park with olive trees - The restaurant offers a wide terrace overlooking Perugia and showcases traditional Umbrian cuisine based on dishes of the great Italian gastronomy tradition - the cellar has more than 200 labels of Umbrian and Italian wines - A modern meeting room is connected to the castle by a corridor and there is also a spacious private parking area.