Naturalis Bio Resort is an exclusive Charming Residence, situated on a promontory with a view of the Salento countryside. Naturalis Bio Resort & Spa is the result of a fine and careful renovation of an ancient rural village surrounded by typical dry stone walls and protected by majestic old olive trees.

A unique hotel facility, the most authentic rural tradition of Salento and our careful hospitality, perfectly come together to give you an unforgettable experience. The care of the smallest details, the comfort of the rooms, the exclusive spa and the sense of relaxation by the pool: everything in Naturalis Bio Resort is designed to welcome and “cuddle” you for a memorable stay.

Lovely little spots where you can read or listen to music in the shade of the pergola. Here you can enjoy an exclusive holiday in total relaxation and privacy. The fruits of our garden and the lush organic cultivation of aromatic plants, with their variety of colors and scents, capture the senses and the mind leaving you to enjoy the old time flavors.

Terracotta pottery, ancient buildings, fountains made with local stone: everything here tells the ancient history of this Salento rural village. Lose yourself while admiring a ray of sunlight filtering through the branches of trees, lulled by the gentle sound of the fresh and clear water running through the drinking trough.

DOUBLE DE LUXE ROSMARINO
The room is comfortable and elegantly furnished with every attention to detail. Located on the ground floor, there are two entries offering an outstanding view of our organic plantations and of our broad inner court. It has a patio that opens onto the gardens and on the terrace of the Resort. Rosemary is one of the wonderful herbs of our Naturalis Garden.

JUNIOR SUITE EXECUTIVE FICO
The Suite is one of the most prestigious of the Resort. Located on the ground floor, next to the pink pepper tree, near the pool, it enjoys a special private position and boasts a spacious master bedroom.

A big modern whirlpool bath welcomes guests in an exclusive and private winter garden. Inside the Suite, the old restored white wooden roof makes it extremely bright and airy. Inside you’ll find an ancient stone fireplace. A special attention to every single detail gives you the chance to live an unforgettable experience.

A private winter garden with a relaxing Jacuzzi welcomes you for moments of pleasure. The interior, with their well restored finish and furniture, creates a refined and welcoming atmosphere and are expression of an impeccable attention to details.

The floor is decorated with a precious handmade mosaic representing the name of the room. Wide open spaces make you fully enjoy colours and perfumes of a pristine nature. Close your eyes and go with the flow, feeling the breeze. The time to relax is at hand.

KM0 EMOTIONAL CUISINE
Based on Aloe Vera and some of our officinal plantsAn experience which involves all the senses at Naturalis Bio Resort & SPA: a culinary journey where you can rediscover our ancient Salentinian tradition through some masterpieces of taste, enriched with the creativity and the virtue of Aloe, with aromas and officinal plants of the Resort Naturalis.

Taking inspiration from the N&B Natural is Better concept “Pure food for your skin”, our Chef offers a sophisticated gourmet cuisine using our km0 products. In this way the food becomes a pure experience of wellbeing for your body and soul.

A fascinating journey among our local flavours and scents, where the cuisine becomes authentic expression of love and dedication for the Nature and the People, in line with the green concept of Naturalis Bio Resort and its vision of MAN and NATURE meeting each other.

Light lunches and delicious dinners accurately prepared by our Chef with his ability, originality and passion enhance flavours and beneficial effects of the products from our garden, carefully combined with a simple Mediterranean cuisine.

Our guests in Naturalis Bio Resort & SPA will be surrounded and pampered by an amazing emotional experience: a warm atmosphere with soft lights, background music, aloe, herbs and aromatic plants enhance the gastronomic experience… food is explained, wine described and your senses are inebriated by this harmony between taste & nature.

NATURALIS GARDEN
Aloe Vera organic plantations, vineyards, fields of wheat, aromatic plants and lavender surround Naturalis Bio Resort and let visitors contemplate nature in all its splendor.

The organic extracts obtained from Naturalis Garden plantations, become the most important ingredients we use in our natural and organic cosmetics. Our products are designed to improve the quality of life and give truly positive emotions: Love for Nature and PASSION FOR WELLNESS.

Tradition and innovation meld into each other in our rigorously organic plantations, we take care of our botanical gardens with passion and love, respecting  the values we inherited from our rural ancestors. The bond with nature is the main theme of the Bio Resort, it pleasantly accompanies guests during their stays.

BIO SWIMMING POOL 
Perfectly in line with the green concept of the resort is the saltwater infinity pool. Its clear and regenerating water respects the skin and gives you moments of pure pleasure. Lined with olive trees, the infinity pool overlooks the organic plantations.

This give you the possibility to enjoy an enchanting spectacle and to be delighted with the Mediterranean scents of Naturalis Garden. There is nothing more relaxing than sipping a tasty juice under the gazebos, getting charmed by the golden sun light which shines brightly on crystal clear waters.

The view extends to “furnieddhi”, unique trulli structures in harmony with the typical landscape of Salento, which you can admire in the rural village. You will bring with you carved in your heart pleasant memories of tranquil days spent here and the unspoilt nature of Salento.

BIO WELLNESS & SPA 
In the evocative setting of a barn, you can have a Turkish bath or a relaxing massage, as well as Ayurvedic and plantar reflexology massages.

The Spa also offers to his customers pleasant health circuits and the exclusive 4 ELEMENTS treatment, based on organic extracts of Wheat, Wine, Olive Oil and Aloe. Moments of wellness for couples in whole relax and intimacy, surrounded by a unique unspoilt natural environment.

The place where the prodigious active benefits of nature nourish and quench the thirst of the skin and the soul. Aromas, colors and movements in harmony lead the mind and body into a new magic dimension, where there is just the one self, to nourish and pamper.

The loving care of expert hands and an ancient oriental wisdom are joined together to dissolve and purify the deepest knots of the soul, infusing each pass the precious natural fluids.

Rooms: 11

Price: from 157 EUR per night

Source: www.naturalisbioresort.com

At the very tip of Italy’s heel, located in Salento, is the small town of Gagliano del Capo, where you’ll find Palazzo Daniele – a 9 suite artist guest house, and aristocratic palazzo built in 1861. It’s the newest addition to the GS Collection, created by entrepreneur Gabriele Salini owner of G-rough in Rome.

Built in 1861 (the year of Italy’s reunification) by local famous architect Domenico Malinconico and remodeled by the owner’s family in the early 20th century. Palazzo Daniele was home to four generations of Daniele’s family.

The last member of the family being Francesco Petrucci, who lived abroad for some years while beginning to collect contemporary art before returning to his roots, moving to Gagliano del Capo, and bringing a bit of his world and passion into the palazzo.

The building at that time was ancient, heavy and full of old furnitures, so he decided to restore and renovate it with Ludovica + Roberto Palomba from Milan. He entrusted them with the architectural restoration and the space redistribution of Palazzo Daniele.

Founder of Capo D’arte, he transformed Palazzo Daniele into an art house hosting artists from all over the world. He wanted to strip the rooms, highlighting only the history, details and absence, in order to create a flow of energy for the needs of the artists that Francesco hosted, allowing them to imagine and create new works.

In September 2018 after speaking with his close friend and art collector Gabriele Salini, he decided to hand over the keys of the Palazzo, allowing him to open the doors to new travelers and art lovers.

In April 2019 Palazzo Daniele opened its doors to the world with a different hospitality concept where historical spaces are still preserved, maintaining its majesty while combining it with contemporary art and local culture.

DESIGN
Reshaped by the milanese duo Ludovica + Roberto Palomba, inspired by the idea of absence, stripped back as much as possible while restoring historical features such as ornate frescoes and mosaic flooring to create the space for a contemporary art collection all around the property.

Monastic décor and bare walls boost the 19th century frescoes ceilings with cracks. Each room has a different artwork. Ancient family portraits alternate with works of contemporary art.

The 19th century history, architecture and art are fused to serve the needs of the latter in order to stimulate the creation of art and installations that have become intrinsic parts of the house. Artworks and minimalist designed furnitures are combined in all rooms.

Art pieces become functional such as the light box of Simon D’Exea illuminating most of the rooms or the rain shower installation in a bathroom where the shower is replaced by an archaic source of water falling from a 6 meter high ceiling in a large basin designed by Andrea Sala.

MEET THE OWNERS
Palazzo Daniele is a hospitality project born by the combination of the vision of Italian entrepreneur Gabriele Salini, and Francesco Petrucci, the last descendent of Daniele’s family and owner of Palazzo Daniele. The passions shared between the two friends and the similarities between their “homes” made this new story possible.

Gabriele Salini, after the success of his first property G-rough (based in Rome), decided to create an Italian hotel collection, “GS Collection”, bringing together art, design, history and music to redefine the idea of Italian hospitality.

Honoring the originality and uniqueness of each property, each unique hotel will be a “spot” with an individual personality and an authentic story connected to each city and place.

Francesco Petrucci, last descendent of Daniele’s family, belongs to an aristocratic family that has always lived in the Palazzo. After a few years abroad in the world of law, he decided to return to his roots bringing a bit of his experience.

He founded Capo D’Arte, a non profit contemporary art exhibition that brought together the entire town of Gagliano Del Capo, from townhouses, to chapels, to an abandoned train and a Piazza.

Artists like Yang Fudom and Michelangelo Pistoletto have participated. The exhibition was so successful that it has become an annual event, bringing together some of the most well known artists from around the world. This time of year, Palazzo Daniele, becomes the headquarter for the event.

ROOMS
Minimalism meets majesty. Each of the 9 suites represent a timeless experience where contemporary art, 150 years of history, and design coexist- with monastic décor, minimal furnishings, bare walls, and vaulted frescos ceilings.

MASTER SUITE
With an original living room from the 19th century, the Master Suite has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a large living room and an enviable contemporary art collection.

Resplendent with frescoes ceilings and original floors from the 19th century, the Master Suite has a 40sqm living room equipped with contemporary design furnitures, two bedrooms (35sqm each) with king-sized beds and two private bathrooms.

The Master Suite showcases artworks from Palazzo Daniele contemporary art collection such as: lightbox by Simon d’Exea, lamp by Luigi Presicce, Pino Pascali’s picture taken by Claudio Abate, Eva Jospin’s wreath, Carla Accardi’s lithography, Niccolo Gandolfi’s photo, Christian Frosi’s photo and original mirrors of the 19th century.

The Master Suite is equipped with two bedrooms, each with a king bed, aristocratic and frescoed living area with large sofà, table and desk, two private bathrooms with walk-in shower and a view of the town square.

PALAZZO JUST FOR YOU
Look beyond the traditional holiday: enjoy the true soul of Puglia! Palazzo Daniele can become your private palazzo ! Our 9 rooms, frescos saloons, spa and pool will be your retreat to unwind not only your soul. Don’t miss this chance……….. Palazzo can be at your disposal anytime from 1st November to 15th March!

FOOD & DRINK
The informal atmosphere and view of the pool makes this a primary gathering point for guests. The big kitchen island is our chef’s “headquarter”, and a place where guests can sit, eat, drink and chat with our chef while she cooks. Our chef Donata hand picks fresh products from local farmers on a daily basis – serving breakfast, light tapas and dinner on demand.

Breakfast is served everyday from 8 am to 12 pmLunch is served from 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm while dinner is served from 7:00 pm until 10:30 pm. An open-air courtyard for guests to gather and enjoy a glass of wine, breakfast or sit by a fire on a chilly night.

ORANGERY & KAFFEEHAUS
At the far end corridor of the palazzo you’ll find the amazing garden, “Giardino degli aranci”, with green pastures filled with orange trees. In the summertime, guests can enjoy cocktails and an aperitivo while listening to music in the garden.

Inside the garden is the Kaffeehaus, a small typical ancient building where past and present meet. A place where nobles sat and sipped coffee and hot chocolate while entertaining guests. The Kaffeehaus can host special dinners for two.

POOL & SPA
“It’s a good idea always to do something relaxing before making an important decision in your life”Paulo Coelho The black bottom pool is the place to be in the summer time.

Take your time to lounge at the pool, relax in our steambath or sauna and enjoy around and enjoy the delights of our local kitchen by Donata and the best selection of our cocktails at the pool bar.  Our SPA & pool are exclusively open for our guests from 8 am to 9 pm

EVENTS
Palazzo Daniele, with its new hospitality philosophy, is the perfect place for bespoke experiences in a spectacular frame where every event is crafted with sophistication in mind. The only place in Salento where contemporary art and history merge together in a breathtaking atmosphere.

The perfect location to organise any event you want, from a simple trendy and cool evening to mark a special moment, with the possibility to extend a dinner to an incredible after-dinner party with a different approach. Even more exceptional is the exclusive use of the hotel, where every inch of our venue is yours to enjoy. Imagine guaranteed privacy, absolute flexibility…

FEATURES
Palazzo Daniele can offer the possibility to celebrate your special occasion inside or outside the Palazzo. If you want, you can choose to experience the original 19th century frescoes ceilings inside the palazzo or enjoying our orangery, courtyard and pool. Sit-down dinner: max capacity 120 pax. Buffet dinner: max capacity 170 pax. After dinner event: max capacity 220 pax

SUNSET TIME ON BOARD
“Sunsets are my escape into the reality I want to continuously live” (Rachel Roy)
Few things can match the beauty of Salento’s sunset from the sea! Step aboard our private boat where our sailorman will guide you through the beauties of Salento’s hidden bays, ending with an amazing aperitif on sunset time on board. The experience includes: 3 hours on a private boat with our sailorman + Sunset Apulian aperitif

SPORTS & ADEVNTURES
A day off from beaches and quiet time?Fill your life with experiences, not things… have stories to tell, not to show.Palazzo Daniele will tempt your sports and adventurous side by offering dedicated activities:

• Biking: 4 hours around the most beautiful spots of Salento with a final tasting aperitif
• Kite Surf and Windsurf: full course for beginners and advanced in Ugento and Torre San Giovanni
• Trekking: 3 hours exploring the Salento hidden beauties: from Ciolo Bridge to Cipollane caves, going through the Paiare rural buildings and the typical Apulian dry stone walls
• Climbing: climbing on the rock inside Otranto Leuca park and Tricase small forest
• Horseriding: riding a horse together with the Ranger exploring Otranto and the beaches

FISHING
Spend half day in our boat with our captain, an expert fisherman, practicing sport fishing and learning how to catch a sea urchin. At the end of the day, an aperitif on board will be served. The experience includes: 3 hours boat with the captain + Aperitif on board

VINTAGE TOUR
“A good traveller has not fixed plans and is not intent on arriving.” (Lao Tzu)
A journey back to the 60’s to discover the unknown Salento and its local jems, in the mythical vintage vehicles from the 60’s and 70’s.The package includes: 4 hours vintage car tour with driver discovering the unknown Salento + Palazzo Daniele aperitif

DONATA’S COOKING CLASS
Savour authentic Apulian cuisine on a fun-filled cooking class led by Palazzo Daniele’s local cook Donata.Immerse yourself into the tradition of the fresh Apulian orecchiette and more, discovering the secrets of Donata!!

Once your meal is ready, enjoy your “table chef dinner”! The experience includes: 2 hours “cooking class” in Palazzo Daniele’s kitchen with Donata + 3 courses table chef dinner (local top quality wine is included)

THE LAST OF THE ROMANTICS
“Romanticism is the abuse of the adjectives”. Lose yourself through a labyrinth of senses, sensuality and smells. Palazzo Daniele – the place where the only way to get rid of temptations is to yield to it…The experience includes: private 4 courses dinner for 2 people with a dedicated service (wines and spirits are not included) + exclusive use of the Kaffehaus area

SO SPA-CIAL
We love our community! If you are not staying in Palazzo Daniele and want to have a daybreak at our exclusive club spa, you can enjoy our pool and spa accompanied by a delicious healthy Apulian light lunch.

Rooms: 9

Price: from 261 EUR per night

Source: www.palazzodaniele.com

Born as a noble residence of Petrarolo D’Anna family, Patria eighteenth-century palace rises majestic and elegant in the heart of Lecce. Unique with its refined decorations, it’s one of Mauro Manieri’s most important baroque masterpieces.

The Palace privileged location is amplified by an elegant and welcoming atmosphere where classic and modern design meet. A harmony of styles, a perfect blend of precious baroque details and unique contemporary masterpieces.

Over the centuries the palace has experienced all different souls of hospitality. From a sumptuous noble residence, it was turned in a loving home for little orphans, until 1850 when, under the ownership of engineer Giacomo Gridi’s family, it became the first Locanda (inn) for travelers called Locanda “Patria”, which means “homeland”, during the Risorgimento’s period patriotic atmosphere.

A sumptuous but always respectful restyling has brought new light to the Palace, an exceptional and unique trademark of luxury hospitality in Lecce. Every choice has been made in order to preserve and magnify the heritage of the building: classic and modern together again in a contamination of styles, from Baroque to Art Decò to the contemporary art of artisans and Made in Italy icons of design.

ROOMS & SUITES
The rooms and suites express the different nuances of beauty of the Palace. From the Art Deco style, clearly visible in timeless elegance of the wooden furniture result of the most prestigious Italian craftsmanship, to the refined minimal aesthetic that accompanies the contemporary design of a careful selection of Made in Italy furnishings and materials.

The high vaults, legacy of the Palace’s original noble splendor, create the perfect setting to enjoying the privileged view of the characteristic alleys of the historic center and the most evocative image of Santa Croce church.

TERRACE SUITE WITH POOL 
An exclusive Suite with a large private terrace of 80 square meters to accommodate up to 6 people for a private dinner. Privileged and evocative View on Santa Croce Basilica, outdoor private pool, precious Italian artisan flooring, an elegant, contemporary and sophisticated style and a large walk-in shower. You couldn’t wish for anything more.

SANTA CROCE SUITE
Our Santa Croce Suite is unique. The evocative view of Lecce’s most precious Baroque treasure, the refined details, the elegant and timeless style make it simply perfect. The great comfort and the warm atmosphere is what you need to make your luxury stay in Lecce truly memorable.

TITO SCHIPA SUITE
The high vaults, typical of historic Apulian architecture, are the protagonists in our Tito Schipa Suite. The large and comfortable lounge area and the private terrace overlooking the characteristic alleys of Lecce give a charming atmosphere to your stay.

ERNESTO BARBA SUITE
Your buen retiro in the heart of Lecce, where you can enjoy the relaxation of the large lounge area and be placidly caressed by the warm Apulian sun in the quiet of your private balcony overlooking the historic center. The elegant and refined design of the furnishings will help make your staying experience simply perfect.

JUNIOR SUITE WITH VIEW
Our panoramic Junior Suite lets the Baroque magnificence of the Basilica of Santa Croce enter the room from the moment you wake up. An unparalleled show that will accompany you throughout your stay. The refined furnishings, fine fabrics and our exceptional service will make you fully experience the pleasure of Apulian hospitality.

DELUXE ROOM WITH VIEW
Enjoy waking up with a view of one of the most beautiful symbols of Baroque architecture in Lecce: the Basilica of Santa Croce. Elegant and modern style details, fine fabrics, wooden floors and the bright sunlight coming from the large windows will make you feel the essence of the Apulian atmosphere. Let the Mediterranean wind in and enjoy a glimpse of life in Lecce.

ATENZE RESTAURANT
A gastronomic experience that sublimates the culinary tradition of our land in a new way, that reflects the continuous search and creative sensibility of our Executive Chef Ivan Bruno.

The timeless elegance of its design welcomes every guest in a tasting journey of Salento through flavors, tastes and ambitious pairings always respecting the original ingredients. Once the season blooms, a wonderful new stage takes place on our rooftop with Santa Croce view.

The harmony of a rigorous and elegant aesthetic meets the innovative cuisine at Atenze Restaurant, our gourmet restaurant in Lecce’s historic center. The wonder of discovery emerges in the tastes that our Executive Chef Ivan Bruno reinterprets in our always changing dinner menu and tasting experiences, dedicated to Lecce and its origins.

Original pairings of tastes express the continuous quest of a balance between the deep respect of authenticity and a creative and contemporary vision, in an elegant essence of tastes. In summer nights Atenze cuisine raises to our Rooftop to offer you the exclusive experience of dining under the silvery light of the moon, with the sumptuous background of the baroque.

At lunch, the light flavors of Salento summer inspire the delicate proposals to be enjoyed in the shades of our Dehor, an intimate private garden in the little square overlooking Santa Croce.

SIRA ROOFTOP BAR
The soft light of the sunset preludes the moment of indulging in the most suggestive scenery: the breathtaking view of Santa Croce just a few steps from you. The “SIRA” begins, an absolute beauty experience where friezes and ornaments, detailed like embroideries on stone, are the exceptional scenography of our famous aperitivo’s.

Sira is the place of sunsets and summer nights, the place where time is still and gives way to awe and wonder. Sira is pure emotions. The most evocative terrace in Lecce, with an amazing view of Santa Croce church, welcomes you when the sun goes down during the beautiful season to offer you a peerless moment, simply unforgettable.

On our rooftop the aperitif is a ritual that fulfill emotion and palate. Let you be guided in a magical experience among signature cocktails and a unique selection of tastes that accompany the view and complete a unmatched beginning of the evening in the heart of Lecce.

BARBA’S NATURAL LOUNGE
The lounge of the most beautiful Lecce, the one enchanted in moments of suggestive beauty in front of the real Barocco masterpiece.

Take your place on the outdoor sofas and indulge in a signature drink while the nuances of light evolve in a magic dance on the Basilica’s façade. Walk in our internal lounge, and surrounded by its greenery atmosphere, enjoy a privileged view of Santa Croce sipping our tea selection or the authentic Salento’s coffee.

DISCOVER THE BAROQUE OF LECCE
The Palace is hidden in the heart of Lecce, where historic alleys encounter Piazzetta Riccardi. Arrived at the gates of the palace, Salento’s Baroque starts presenting to travelers with its rich architectural details, and then reveals itself, when you look over the square, in all the beauty of Santa Croce. The work of art is an exceptional scenario for the dream awakenings in our suites and for the lively evenings on our rooftop.

From the Roman Amphitheater in Piazza Sant’Oronzo to the modern art of the Historical Museum of the City, from the Gothic-Renaissance Sedile to the Giudecca which preserves the Jewish Museum, the city shows in every corner to be a crossroads of different periods and cultures.

DISCOVER SALENTO
Meanwhile, Salento calls out of town. The crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea, the adventurous cliffs of the Adriatic Sea, the oasis of the Alimini lakes, the ancient olive trees landascapes, the endless wheat fields are only some of the wonders of this land. And then the rhythm of “Taranta” resounds from Melpignano and reveals the beauty of Salento’s towns and their folklore, all to be discovered.

DISCOVER PUGLIA
We are in the south of Puglia, the heel of Italy that the mild weather, the generous nature and the spirit of hospitality have made one of the most popular destinations in the world.

A land full of surprises and landscapes to explore awaits you a short distance from Lecce. Patria Palace organizes exclusive experiences that will allow you to enjoy all this by experiencing valuable experiences even beyond the borders of our hotel.

LECCE WALKING TOUR 
A few steps from the hotel, the streets of the historic center of Lecce are waiting for you, ready to reveal their ancient history. Let us guide you on a tour to discover the “Florence of the South” known for its Baroque style, made unique by the use of the characteristic Lecce stone.

Marvel at the splendor of the centenary Basilica of Santa Croce, Piazza S. Oronzo and the cathedral. Discover the culinary traditions of the city by tasting some of the typical elements of Lecce: the pasticciotto, the rustico Leccese.

LECCE FOOD TOUR
A friendly walk in Lecce’s historic center, where streets are paved with taralli and churches made of marzipan, between local delights and baroque extravagances, combines a visit to the city and tasting experiences, for an overview of the history of Lecce and the main monuments with several gastronomic stops, led by a sommelier and food and wine expert.

ARTISTIC ENCOUNTERING
This unique tour will open the doors of private ateliers and art studios, designers and noble palaces, offering exclusive encounters and a privileged view on the local art scene. A unique opportunity to share an aperitif with artists and designers in the intimacy of their ateliers, approaching the Apulian art scene and the social scene in which their art relies.

COOK LIKE A LOCAL
A practical cooking class from garden to table in a private house just outside Lecce, among olive groves, fruit trees, a large organic garden, free chickens and hens. Discover the best bread in the stone oven, collect seasonal vegetables and learn the secrets of different types of vegetables and fruit before preparing with your hands orecchiette, traditional panzerotti, and much more to share in a memorable family lunch.

SUPERFINE “NOSE”
A unique opportunity to live a few hours with a “Nose” in a small town off the beaten track, to investigate the role of perfumes in history and society, with the possibility of creating your own personalized perfumes (2/3 appointments are required) for a total experience of body and soul and to choose the one that suits you best.

POTTERY WORKSHOP
A hands-on ceramic workshop with a local craftsman. A complete introduction and approach to define the techniques to pull and push the clay. To create your masterpiece in the heart of the historic center of Lecce.

WINE TASTING
Visit a nineteenth-century local winery to discover the production of Salento wines: Negroamaro, Primitivo, Malvasia. Let yourself be enchanted by the history of the winery, by the ancient underground stone galleries and by the immense barrel cellar. At the end of the guided tour, a wine tasting awaits you surrounded by a unique location.

GALLIPOLI
A strip of land surrounded by the Ionian Sea, where you can be fascinated by the architectural and cultural testimonies of different dominations: from the Greek to the Roman, from the Byzantine to the Norman one.

Discover Gallipoli, the pearl of the Ionian sea, a must for anyone visiting Salento. Let yourself be captivated by the extraordinary splendor of its courts, architecture, churches, historic buildings and crystalline coasts. The guided tour will end with a taste of a Salento gem: the spumone, a hazelnut and chocolate-based semifreddo typical of the Salento area.

OTRANTO
Lose yourself in the beauty of Otranto! Formerly known as the East Gate, is the easternmost town of the boot. Discover its history and its majestic beauties, connected for millennia to water.

Cross the stone alleys of its historic center, which come alive with local shops that produce the excellence of Made in Puglia craftsmanship. Stop for a few moments on the city’s waterfront and let your gaze get lost in the horizon, between the blue of the sea that touches that of the sky.

WALKING IN SALENTO
A walk for everyone among ancient farms, breathtaking landscapes and sea cliffs up to Otranto with lunch overlooking the sea and a visit to the fascinating city or a boat tour to explore the Adriatic coast swimming in crystal clear waters and hidden coves.

BOAT EXPERIENCES
A half day dedicated to the sea along the Adriatic coast, with its pristine coves and crystal-clear waters. To relax away from the crowds, enjoying delicious snacks based on home cooking and local delicacies.

VALLE D’ITRIA
A tour in the verdant Valle d’Itria, where the small towns on top of the hills are like white sheets drying in the sun. It all starts with a visit to an olive farm and its oil mill to continue towards a paradise where you can learn how to make mozzarella with your own hands. After the sumptuous lunch in the dairy, a tour of Alberobello awaits to discover its famous trulli.

Rooms: 67

Price: from 220 EUR per night

Source: www.patriapalace.com

Giacomo had this old masseria, located in the historical centre of the city of Lecce, entirely restored. Transformed with great refinement into a luxurious mansion- hotel, it was inaugurated in 2015.

La Fiermontina is an old masseria (farmhouse) that was entirely restored and transformed into a mansion-hotel where tradition and modernity come together in remarkable harmony.

ROOMS
Inside, fifteen spacious rooms and the three more recent Suites à côté welcome the hotel’s guests to its exquisite elegance, enhanced by vaulted ceilings, the distinctive honey-colour of Lecce’s limestone, and numerous works of art.

In its large garden, sheltered by the old walls that surround it, orange trees and centenary olive trees provide shade for the bar, the linear swimming pool and the sculptures of the two French artists who loved Antonia and were loved by her, René Letourneur and Jacques Zwobada.

ANTONIA FIERMONTE SUITE
Through a short Lecce stone staircase, guests can reach the most beautiful suite of the Resort. It is very spacious, with a total area of 550 square feet, and also very bright. It is comprised of a double bedroom, a separate sitting room and an ample bathroom. The double bed is Queen size; a sofa bed opening into a French-size bed is present in the adjoining sitting room.

This suite is comfortably furnished following the style of the entire Resort: a blend of modern and antique, enhanced by the original star-pinnacled ceiling that guests can touch with their own hands.

There is plenty of space, and the suite also features some decorated alcoves and a stone fireplace. Being on the upper floor, you can also find a private terrace that offers a beautiful view of the garden.

The suite is equipped with a 40 and 48-inch TV, complimentary SKY HD and Wi-Fi, air conditioning, stereo system and a courtesy Lavazza coffee machine. A selection of complimentary coffee capsules and infusions is provided.

All room services are easily managed by the guests through a touchpad. The ample bathroom features a very spacious shower complemented by a free-standing bath tub. Organic toiletries, accessories and a hairdryer are provided. The Suite has a safe.

ROMANTIC SUITE
This bright and beautiful duplex suite measures 380 square feet. The comfortable sitting area is on the ground floor, and a short Lecce stone staircase leads to a spacious timber mezzanine where the bedroom is located. The double bed is King size. The sofa in the sitting room opens into a French size bed.

The private garden with seating, accessible from the sitting room, features a large lemon tree and, most notably, an original 18th century altar depicting Saint Antony of Padua.

The suite is equipped with a 40 and a 48 inch-screen TVs, stereo system and air conditioning. The bathroom has a spacious shower and a separate free-standing bath tub. Organic toiletries, accessories and a hairdryer are provided. The suite has a safe.

JUNIOR SUITE
Our Junior Suites comprise of a spacious bedroom, a comfortable bathroom with shower, ample built-in storage and wardrobe space. The average total area is just under 360 square feet.

The suites are luxuriously furnished in the signature style of the resort, with a neutral colour scheme, original artworks and high-end design furniture. The beds are either King or Queen size. All the suites have a private outside sitting area or access to a shared terrace.

The suites are equipped with either 48 or 40-inch TV, complimentary SKY HD and wifi, air conditioning, touchpad for room services management and a courtesy Lavazza coffee machine. A selection of complimentary coffee capsules and infusions is provided.

The bathroom features a spacious shower. Organic toiletries, accessories and a hairdryer are provided. All the suites have a safe.

SUPERIOR ROOM
This is a comfortable and elegant double room suited also to single occupancy. The room has a Queen bed, a small outside balcony and good storage space.Plush design and vintage furniture, complemented by unique accessories and art pieces, create an atmosphere of understated sophistication.

There is a 48-inch TV, complimentary SKY HD and wifi, air conditioning, touchpad for room services management and a courtesy Lavazza coffee machine. A selection of complimentary coffee capsules and infusions is provided. The designer bathroom has a shower; organic toiletries, accessories and a hairdryer are provided. This room has a safe.

LES SUITES A CÔTÉ
The Suites à côté are an extension of La Fiermontina. The minimalist style of the decor induces a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. Customised furniture is crafted in local wood, while art and design pieces are signed by Le Corbusier, Tobia Scarpa, Charlotte Perriand.

VERTICALE
The Suite Verticale, situated a few metres from the main Resort in the Suites à Coté compound, features an independent entrance. The Suite comprises of a spacious bedroom, a comfortable bathroom and ample built-in storage and wardrobe space.

The average total area is about 350 square feet. The bed is King size and the bathroom features a spacious shower. Organic toiletries, accessories and a hairdryer are provided. The Suite has a safe.

GELSOMINO
“Suite Gelsomino”, is situated just across the street from the main Resort, in the Suites à Coté compound, and boasts an independent entrance and garden. This is the most spacious option, with an average total area of 540 square feet. It is comprised of a double bedroom, a separate sitting room and a spacious bathroom.

The bed is king size, and a comfortable designer double sofabed is present. The ample bathroom is complemented by a free-standing bath tub and features twin wash basins. The suites are equipped with a 40 and a 48-inch TV and air conditioning. The suites have a safe.

POOL
Situated across the street from the main Resort, in the Suites à Cotè compound, this luxurious Suite boasts an independent entrance and private garden with seating and a plunge pool.

The large floor-to-ceiling windows and open plan shower complement the sophisticated contemporary furniture and beautifully offset the traditional stone-vaulted ceilings. The bed is king size, and a comfortable designer double sofabed is present.

The Suite is fully air-conditioned and equipped with a 48-inch TV. Organic toiletries, accessories and a hairdryer are provided. The Suite has a safe.

DINING
The specialities of our chefs can be tasted under the olive trees at La Fiermontina, in the inner garden of the Palazzo Bozzi Corso or by candlelight at the M.A.M.A Family Museum. Using carefully selected ingredients and daring bold and surprising combinations, the chefs prepare delicious traditional recipes as well as international dishes.

THE RESTAURANT
The restaurant serves elevated interpretations of cucina povera, which can be eaten in the elegant main dining rooms or alfresco amid the olive and orange trees in the hotel’s walled garden.

The gastronomical options in Puglia region are especially rich and varied where only local, fresh products are used. A classic example of this is Puglia’s signature dish, orecchiette con le cime di rapa, pasta cooked with turnip greens.

Freshness of ingredients is all-important as is the their provenance: durum wheat, tomatoes, artichokes, fava beans, courgettes, beans, fennel, peppers, onions, seafood.

THE BAR
In the dimly lit Enzo bar that was once a barn, film posters adorn the walls and Tobia Scarpa’s orb-like Suspension Nictes lighting fixtures hang above the gold –paneled bar like jewels that follow the roundness of the stone vault.

The Hotel bar Enzo is the perfect lounge area in which to spend some time before or after any lunch or dinner. The bar offers an ample choice of wines, cocktails and liquors.

DINING AT M.A.M.A
Enjoy a private dinner in our family museum. Your path runs along a story of passion between figures of other times. Three artist, two sculptors and their beautiful muse, haunt a hidden garden in Lecce.

We shall open a secret door so you may live a pugliese story amongst works of art and take delight in a romantic Salentine dinner. At sunset, when candles light, you will savour our land’s wines while a voice tells you their story.

Conceived by Giacomo and Antonia to commemorate the memory, work and cultural heritage of their grandmother Antonia Fiermonte, M.A.M.A. family museum is a widespread museum that presents itself as the artistic link between La Fiermontina and Palazzo Bozzi Corso by La Fiermontina.

Rooms: 16

Price: from 251 EUR per night

Source: www.lafiermontina.com

Palazzo Ducale Venturi is a 5 Star Luxury Hotel in the heart of Minervino di Lecce, a quiet and peaceful borgo of Puglia. A place where the guests can enjoy an unforgettable stay immersed in history and, at the same time, surrounded by the many services such as the Wellness centre – including the unique pool converted from an ancient oil mill, the gym, the massage room, and the innovative cryosauna – the wonderful outdoor pool and the pool bar.

Our 5 Star Luxury Hotel is located in a 16th century noble palace, completely renovated under the supervision of the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, recovering ancient salt ovens, Lecce stone star vaults and ancient chianche floors. Palazzo Ducale Venturi is an oasis of elegance, peace and beauty in a charming Relais for your holiday in Apulia, the ideal setting to stop in time sensations and unique moments.

Palazzo Ducale Venturi welcomes you with an exclusive setting for your special moments, a relaxing garden with pool, an incredible underground heated pool, a gym and a massage centre, a genuine breakfast based on local food and much more. We will take care of you whatever you desire.

THE DUCAL SUITE
On the ground floor, the Ducal Suite overlooks the main garden with pool. It owes its beauty to its 16th century frescoed ceiling showing Saint George and the dragon, its prestigious finishes and its antique furniture. The room has a private patio, two separate areas, and a large bathroom.

The room is approximately 45 sq m large. The other four Suites are on the two floors of the ancient Armoury, discovered after a deep study on the building and its history, and then completely restored. Besides the large spaces and the many comforts, the Suites show a meticulous care of the details which will bring the guest into the world of luxury and history.

JUNIOR SUITE
On the first floor of the Palazzo, and two on the two floors of the ancient Armoury, are characterized by wide and comfortable spaces enriched with furnishing details that are the result of a refined research. The Junior Suite brings back to life the aristocratic and sumptuous past of the Palazzo.

DELUXE ROOM
One on the ground floor and eight on the first floor, the Deluxe rooms are of different sizes and features, but, all of them, tastefully furnished in a special and unique way. They are equipped with a living area with two armchairs and a desk.

The Agrumeto rooms – One on the ground floor with a direct access and view over the citrus grove (on request, it can have an interconnecting room), and two on the first floor overlooking the garden, slightly smaller, but with large windows which allows the warm sunlight to flood the room.

Throgh their luxury finishes, the antique furniture, and a design based on nature’s nuances, they give unforgettable moments to live and tell.

LIVING ROOM
A unique place because of its ‘out of time’ atmosphere, because of its research in furniture, paintings, and ancient artifacts, because of the recovery of 2 salt wood oven brought to their former glory which will allow guests to discover ancient recipes of Salento and to learn how to prepare them.

SPA & WELLNESS
In the private SPA, an underground heated pool converted from an antique oil mill, with hydro-massage, relaxing music and dim light, the guest is completely cuddled. Guests can also choose among a wide range of facial and body beauty treatments, and different kinds of massages (classic, draining, sportive and relaxing), all with the most innovative methods and through the work our qualified personnel.

CRYOTHERAPY
Palazzo Ducale Venturi is the first 5 star luxury hotel in Puglia, and amongst the first hotel in Italy, with Cryotherapy. The cryosauna is an innovative system operating down to -190˚ for a whole-body treatment, which brings immediate benefits in just 3 minutes. Cryotherapy is an effective treatment for:

• BEAUTY, being a real non-invasive face-lift with a natural anti-ageing effect;
• HEALTH AND WELLNESS, improving sleep quality, reducing stress and chronical pains;
• PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, to get better performances and to recover muscles after exercise.

SWIMMING POOL 
We made our pool with only your pleasure in mind. Crystal clear salted water for a peerless relax in our hidromassage or sippering a glass of champagne.

GARDENS
In our structure you find two gardens: the main garden, where the pool is located, and on which also overlook the gym and the bar; and the secret garden where you will find the peace to spend an evening surrounded by romantic citrus trees and the soothing sound of a fountain.

COOKING CLASS
Live your holiday in Puglia to the full. Book a Cooking Class with our Chef! Discover the ancient secrets of homemade pasta, Salento dishes, focaccia, pizza and biscuits to entertain even the youngest children!

LA DOLCE VITA
A classic car tour to explore the countryside and quiet villages surrounding Lecce or the Adriatic coast from Otranto to Castro in an iconic 1963 FIAT 500.In the countryside, lose yourself through endless olive groves and explore ancient underground oil mills. At sea, explore caves by boat and enjoy a sea-view lunch.

NATURAL WINE ENCOUNTERS
Start your day exploring Lecce baroque jewel, old town center and artisan shops on a friendly and informative walk and continue with a short drive to the heart of natural wines, to earn more about this artisanal production which lies in organic grapes, and wines spontaneously fermented in clay.

Your trust will be rewarded with a private encounter, tutored tasting and lunch at the vigneron & wine maker private house, to delight your senses indulging in an exclusive and private setting away from the tourist crowd.

THE BAROQUE ART
This unique tour of Lecce will open the doors of private artist studios, designer and nobility, offering an overview of Lecce combined with exclusive local encounters.

A friendly walk with a special focus on local artists, a unique opportunity to understand more about the local stone, that made the baroque architecture of Lecce so unique and fascinating, while sharing an aperitivo with a local artists and designers at their private studios, and learn how the stone can influence various works of art from sculpture to photography and paintings while touring Lecce with your local guide.

THE ICONIC FIAT 500
Explore Lecce old town on board of 1963 convertible Bianchina or classic Fiat 500, and lose yourself in the maze of alleys of this amazing baroque jewell, with your local guide and friend.

A complete introduction to the history and main monuments of the town with plenty of tastings and tips for further exploration and independent sightseeing and dining. A city tour that will make your senses tingling offering a new perspective on the old town.

LECCE FOOD TOUR
A leisure stroll of Lecce old town where streets are paved with taralli and churches made of Marzipan. A friendly yet informative walk between local delights and baroque extravaganza, designed to be tasty and fun, combining an overview on Lecce history, main monuments and points of interest with several food and wine tasting guided by our sommelier and food expert, for a complete introduction to the history and the town, its products and culinary heritage, with many tips for independent dining and further exploration.

PRIVATE BOAT TOURS
Enjoy the coastline, the sun, the sea and the unspoilt bays on a private boat tour with lunch on board prepared by the captain.

QUARRY & STONE EXPERIENCE
A day out of the ordinary to immerse yourself in one of Puglia’s oldest traditions. The Lecce stone typical of this area is soft and very easy to work, making possible the stunning Baroque style for which the city of Lecce is known.

You can explore the subterranean, lunar landscape of the stone quarries and be an apprentice stonemason for a day. Followed by a master and equipped with a chisel, you will learn how to transform a block of stone into a unique work of art.

THE ART OF CERAMICS
If you love art and ceramics, this unique experience is just for you: a ceramics workshop with a local craftsman at your complete disposal! You will learn the secrets of working with clay and you will be able to create your own masterpiece in the heart of Lecce’s historic centre.

SALSA MAKING
There i s not better way to dive i nto tradition than making “SALSA”, the deep red home made tomato sauce that every year i s traditionally made in Puglia, when the fiaschetto tomatoes are ready to be harvested. An authentic family tradition.

TREKKING, BIKING & KAYAK
Explore the wildest stretch of the Adriatic coast and enjoy breathtaking views as far as Otranto, Italy’s most estearn city. Or book a bike tour to visit Salento’s vineyards and taste their wines; local dairies to learn the secrets of mozzarella and burrata production and much more!

And why not dive into the crystal-clear waters by kayaking and exploring the coastal caves and hidden coves of the Adriatic with a marine biologist to learn more about Puglia’s ecosystem?

YOGA CLASSES
If you feel you need to dedicate a moment just to you, if you are looking for a place of peace and tranquillity, where you can regain the balance you feel you have lost, Palazzo Venturi is the ideal place.

Our yoga teacher will guide you on a journey of inner rediscovery, of achieving harmony between body and mind, of reconciliation with the world around you in the peace and tranquillity of our enchanting citrus grove.

THE LUXURY OF TELLING AN IMPORTANT STORY
It is one of the first Ducal houses of Salento to open its doors and welcome guests in the sumptuous and aristocratic world of five centuries of history, art and culture.

THE MISTERY – THE ABBESS
According to the legend, the Duke Venturi of Minervino had a great passionate love story with the abbess of the village’s Monastery, who built a secret underground tunnel to connect the Monastery to the Palace, so that they could meet. Although their ‘love story’ went on for years, one day the duke fell madly in love with a young novice who came from a Neapolitan noble family.

The Abbess, consumed with jealousy, drugged the novice and buried her alive inside the underground tunnel, walling it up and closing it with a door of the city of Otranto prison (this door was found 10 feet beneath the surface during the restoration work for the underground pool).

Furthermore, the abbess wanted the duke to wall the lovers’ alcove up, the place where the two were used to meet. The woman lost also her faith to such an extent that cursed the duke’s bedroom with the formula ‘hic amor mori’, here love died.

The curse was later lifted and the evil forces were driven out by Saint Eligio. Tradition, legend, true or false? The owners decided to recreate the cursed room putting the antique door, found during the restoration work, back in its original place.

THE DISCOVERY – SANT’ELIGIO
Around mid-sixteenth century, Saint Eligio, returning from a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, stopped in Apulia. He heard about the legend of the abbess of Minervino and decided to visit the historical Palace of Duke Venturi.

Even though no one was there, the door was open, and as soon as he walked in, the devil showed up, dressed like a woman: Saint Eligio rapidly grabbed him by the nose with tongs. And since then the abbess’s curse disappeared.

This coloured legend is depicted in two French Cathedrals (Angers and Le Mans) and in the Duomo in Milan, with the stained glass window by Niccolò da Varallo, donated by Milanese goldsmiths in 1400.

The historic Eligio, son of quite modest people, must have had an education at some point, because he was hired as an apprentice by the Lyon’s goldsmith Abbone, who also managed the royal mint: a great master in his art.

And the apprentice Eligio became no lesser than his master. Because of his fame with his art and the fact that he was a perfect gentleman, there is actually an interesting story, unfortunately not documented, which tells that King Clotario II commissioned him a gold throne, giving him the necessary materials.

He was so good that from the given amount he managed to create two thrones and therefore managed to half the estimated price; something which had never been heard of before.

King Clotario made Eligio head of the mint in Marseille, while he continued to be a goldsmith. When the new King Dagoberto came to the throne he was called to court and changed his job; the King made him his Ambassador, in delicate matters with missions of trust.

Eligio decided other assignments by himself: for example, he redeemed war prisoners with his own money, he founded both male and female monasteries. When the king died, he decided to live a religious life and was consecrated Bishop of Noyon-Tmournai.

He started a new life. Eligio undertook the evangelizing campaign (and re-evangelizing) in the North of Gaul, in the regions of the Meuse and in the Scelda, in the land of the Frisians.

He became a protagonist with other bishops such as Audoeno (Ouen) of Roauen (who became his biographer), Amand of Tongres, Sulpizio and the Pious Bourges. He died on Dutch soil, from where his remains were brought back to Noyon only in 1952. And this is when the other story of Saint Eligio starts: his cult spreads through France, Germany and Italy.

They all want him as a patron not only the goldsmiths, but practically all the craftsmen for metal, carters, garbage collectors, horse traders, farriers and even in more recent days, mechanics. In some places in France they bless the horse on his remembrance day.

Even today in Vitigliano, a small village close to Minervino, between the 4th and 6th of December, there are customs and festivals of antique cult, rites and traditions.

A useful occasion to know, remember and re-live rites and cults of the past and help the younger generation to approach religious practices developed in the area. At Palazzo Ducale Venturi, we found and brought to life 2 rings that were used to tie sick horses and pray to Saint Eligio, the depiction of which – according to testimonies of local elders – was inserted in the right hand niche on the front of the Palace.

THE PRINCESS – ROYAL BLOOD
The legendary life of Giorgio (born in Cappadocia), recruited in the roman army, does not explain why he left the military life to take a journey to Alimini in Apulia, where a fierce dragon lived in a lake.

The monster often visited the local town and with a malefic blow killed the people and then ate them. So then the locals decided to bring him two sheep each day so that he would not continue to massacre the citizens. But when they started to run out of sheeps, the King decided to send a sheep and a youth chosen at random.

The day in which Giorgio arrived in Alimini on his horse, the choice fell on the king’s only daughter. The king offered half of his lands and all of his wealth for his daughter to be saved, but the people accused him because it was he himself who had established the rules and therefore could not evade the commitment. (You can see in the fresco on the vault of our suite, the offerings in the form of shards and Apulian vases).

The young princess crying and dressed in her royal robes, was making her way to the lake whilst the crowd watched her from the walls of the city. Giorgio arrived at that moment, and asked her the reason for her desperation.

She implored him to leave should the dragon swallow him up too. But he went directly towards the dragon and injured it with his spear. Then he ordered the maiden to take his belt and put it around the dragon’s neck and take it back to the city.

The twenty thousand people present and the king himself, saw the prodigy, and fell to their knees. Then Giorgio with his sword killed the dragon. The king asked him what he wanted in return for what he had done, and Giorgio replied that he was in love with the Princess and wished to marry her.

The princess wonderfully happy took knight Giorgio’s hand and said that she also was in love and wished him to be her husband. Knight Giorgio and the Princess Alena left on his horse and their traces were lost forever from all the history books and ecclesiastical records.

After more than 200 years, Giorgio as if by magic returned to the history books as Saint Giorgio, who killed the dragon, which represented Evil. History, legends, myths, saints and mysteries, one thing is certain LOVE ALWAYS CONQUERS ALL.

This story, probably around IX-X century, accompanied the ancient tale of the tortures of Saint Giorgio and spread through western Europe. The Duke Venturi and his wife were fascinated by this legend and gave an artist the task of bringing it back to life on the walls and roof of the Palace. Today it can still be seen on the ceiling of the bedroom in the suite of Palazzo Ducale Venturi.

THE ORIGINS – THE DUKE VENTURI
Venturi Palace is an austere structure of the sixteenth century that can be considered a real fortress. It is on two floors, and you can see machicolations by the windows and the entrance door, used to defend the building from foreign attacks. The ashlar worked gate with the Venturi emblem displayed above has a remarkable artistic value. Many different theories exist on the origins of the name “Minervino”.

According to some researchers, the name comes from an ancient temple dedicated to the roman goddess Minerva. Another theory says that it was built up in memory of the old Castro, once called “Minervium”, destroyed by the Saracens around 1266.

The most plausible theory is that Minervino has Roman origins, and this is confirmed, not only by the presence of old remains of that historical period, but also by the recovery of a street, the paving of which is very similar to that of Via Appia, which connected Rome to Brindisi.

Minervino grew in population in the first decades of the 1500s: in 1532 it had 95 families, equivalent to around 475 inhabitants; it was a feud of the Filomarinis, dukes of Cutrofiano, until 1619, when the land was bought by the Venturis, who later on became dukes.

Up to 1650 Minervino was divided in 16 hamlets, each hamlet had from 50 to 100 inhabitants; actually, these hamlets were just “masserie”, a kind of manor farms, typical rural buildings, the most important of which was called “Borgo Minervino”.

The historical division into hamlets is the evidence of the Greek-Byzantine past of this city. With no doubt Minervino is involved in the megalithic phenomenon. This is not proof of its Messapian origins, but shows the existence of extremely ancient populations.

The most significant example is a dolmen called “Li Scusi”. This is an enormous monolithic block sustained by vertical blocks by the sides and considering the tools that were used in that period, there must have necessarily been an organized society to build it up.

Minervino was often threatened by many Saracens raids, and, to defend itself, a guard tower was bought (the one between Otranto and S. Cesarea), tower still named like the “universitas” that raise it up.

Minervino is one of the traditionally most wealthy villages. According to documents of 1600-1700, the income of people from Minervino was higher than that of people from the surrounding villages. This is why the inhabitants of Minervino were called “Capiddruzzi”, which means haughty people.

It is confirmed that in the XV century Minervino owned a castle and defensive walls, it was a prosperous centre, so that on the church dedicated to S. Pietro was engraved: “comu lu lione ete lu re te li animali, cusì Minervino ete lu re te sti casali” (just as the lion is the king of the animals, so Minervino is the king of these hamlets).

Actually, the village was particularly flourishing from the XV century until the first half of the XX century. The civilian and military buildings and the amazing church show the importance of this place and reveal its elegance.

Many are the buildings with remarkable architectural value: Palazzo Scarciglia, extremely refined, with its gate and inner court where you can still find amazing capitals. The majestic Palazzo Ducale Venturi, instead, is a real castle, adapted into a noble dwelling.

In the main front you can see a big gate and the machicolations cover every access on every side. In the surrounding areas you can see the fortified manor farm S. Giovanni, with a sixteenth-century tower.

The most important among the religious buildings is the Chiesa Matrice (XV-XVII century). Built close to the square, it strikes for the beauty of its rosette. The interior, richly furnished, is as precious as the main façade. The amazing side door is remarkable, too, with the statue of archangel Michael, to whom it is dedicated.

Finally, of great importance are also the Chiesa Dell’Addolorata (XVII century), with its stucco decorated vault; the Chiesa di S. Antonio (XVI century) where the high altar contains a canvas by Catalano; the Chiesa di S. Maria Delle Grazie (XVI century) with the amazing inner vaults and the higher altar in Baroque style; the Chiesa di S. Pietro and the Chiesa di Santa Croce.

Rooms: 20

Price: from 165 EUR per night

Source: www.palazzoducaleventuri.com