Ex-Manchester United forward Javier Hernandez buys 12th century Castel Madruzzo.

The purchase of Castel Madruzzo, perched on a mountaintop, has made quite a splash among the residents of a small Italian community.

The castle dates back to the 12th century and belonged to the powerful Madruzzo dynasty, who ruled the region as prince-bishops.

The imposing castle has 30 bedrooms and 13 bathrooms, which - after a $15 million investment and upgrades - would make a great luxury hotel.

"He loves Italy and the mountains," said Hernandez's business partner, Niccolò de Zambiasi.

Among other significant changes inside the castle, Javier Hernandez's Delaware-based company, Trentini Latini, plans to install an elevator and create a hotel lobby. The idea of transforming the medieval castello into a five-star retreat has been met with mixed feelings by locals.

While Madruzzo's mayor, Michele Bortoli, supports the plans, saying that any investment that "adds value to our economy is welcome," local heritage officials insist they need solid guarantees to satisfy the community beyond just making a buck.

Critics fear that the transformation could destroy the castle's valuable past, particularly its ties to the Madruzzo family, who influenced the political and religious life of the region.

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