“She was always very conscious of the fact that she was the last of the Medici,” writes Christopher Hibbert in The House of Medici. With incredible wisdom and forethought and just a few months following her brother’s death, Anna Maria Luisa drafted in her will an agreement with the Holy Roman Emperor and new Duke (Francis of Lorraine). One remaining Medici family member prevented that from happening, Gian Gastone’s older sister, Anna Maria Luisa de’ Medici - the last of the Medici. The spoils of the Medici, including countless Renaissance treasures, were threatened to be absorbed into the new empire and likely would be removed from Florence, forever dispersed throughout Europe.

He had been a poor representation of the once-great Medici family and with his death, the dynasty which had ruled both officially and unofficially over Florence, for roughly 300 years, ended.īy the time of Gian Gaston’s death, Florence had been invaded by Austrian troops, and was poised to become part of Lorraine dynasty.

Pensione Maria Luisa is one of the few places that's affordable - yes it's basic, but it's well positioned and the view is to die for.And so it was that on a July day in Florence, 1737, one which I imagine would have been oppressive and hot as summer days can be in Tuscany, the last ruling member of the Medici family, Grand Duke Gian Gastone, died. It's near-on impossible to find somewhere to stay in Positano that isn't eye-wateringly expensive. The pensione itself is run by Carlo - he's delightful and friendly and has so much time to give to chat to his guests, it's a pleasure speaking with him. The pensione is near some really good restaurants - Next2 is a more expensive option but the family restaurant - Il Saraceno d'Ora, run by Maria Luisa herself, is excellent for pizza and very reasonable indeed. They have fridges and the air-con functions well. Rooms are basic but clean and comfortable. The location is pretty fab too! Fornillo Beach is straight down the steps from the pensione (coming back up is a killer) this beach is not as packed as Positano and I think is much nicer. Definitely get a room with a private terrace - they are really large and well-equipped with furniture. The best thing about Pensione Maria Luisa is the fabulous view.

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