PRICE 50It is difficult to believe that such places as the tiny village of Caudino still exist, seemingly unaffected by the passage of time.  Full of reverence and curiosity, we traversed the twisting, romantic lanes and alleyways and finally stood before this property – a veritable palazzo.  With its servants’ houses and military tower the palazzo lords it over an open valley with incomparable views of wooded hills and the mighty Apennine mountain range. 
The complex once belonged to a noble Marche family, which resided here and employed virtually all the village inhabitants.  The large cities lured nearly all of them away - Caudino had become too small a world for them. Only the wonderful old buildings have remained, complete with fireplaces and arches, wall niches and frescos, mosaic and clay floor, stone basins and timber beamed ceilings. Time seems to have simply stopped here, 
one hundred years ago. 
The walled, fortified village was first mentioned in history books in the second half of the thirteenth century.  It was once a part of the city state of Gubbio in neighbouring Umbria.  (Gubbio – approx 30m away – is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful mediaeval cities.)  As this village was at the furthermost reach of this small realm, at the tail end as it were, it was called ‘Coda ino’ – becoming ‘Caudino’ in local dialect.  Caudino citizens were courageous and, under the guidance of a certain Alberghetto Chiavelli in the middle 14th century, fought a bloody battle before the castle keep, thereby securing their independence. 
The palazzo - with its comfortable, rural auxiliary buildings, inner courtyards and garden, its impressive arches and vaulted ceilings, idyllic location and outstanding views - would be an ideal location for a hotel or country house, a seminar or wellness centre for people who want to escape the stress of everyday life in the large cities. 
Although relatively secluded, the connections are excellent:  40 km (a 30 min drive over well-surfaced roads) to the pretty Adriatic bathing resort of Senigallia with its chic restaurants and wide range of shops. Senigallia is also a major motorway junction.  The airport at Ancona Falconara with several international flights daily (including RyanAir)   is 45 minutes, Rome approx 2 hours. 
There is a wide choice of day excursions. Assisi is approx 45 minutes, the city of Fabriano  - famed for paper production (museums!) -  20 minutes.  The incomparably beautiful cave complex at the Grotte di Frasassi is 20 minutes off, likewise the pretty, medieval small towns of Sassoferrato and Gualdo Tadino, the latter with its original potteries. For wine connoisseurs and lovers, the Verdicchio metropolis of Montecarotto and Matelica, are practically outside the gates.  Nearly every small village has a good restaurant or an historical and/or cultural attraction, which will appeal even to the world-weary. Hikers and mountainbikers will appreciate the trekking paths around the 1700 m Monte Catria, photographers and painters the beauties of the countryside, towns and villages.  The region is ideal for the development of year-round tourism. 
Investors will be interested in the availability of national subsidies for activities which promote tourism and use traditional building materials.. We can put you in touch with experienced tax counsellors, geometers and advisors, if you want to undertake this project. 

PRICE 500,000 euro 
RESTORATION approx. 500,000 euro