Casa a Corte

Easy Elegance and Warm Hospitality in a Baroque Mansion

This five-bedroom, three courtyard palace with its abundance of Lecce stone, exudes classic Nardo, a storied 16th- and 17th-century mansion of swirling cement tiles, magnificent arches and vaults, carved stone corbels, stately columns and limestone freizes climbing its 18-foot walls.

A darling of design mags, the historic mansion's updo has been featured in Architectural Digest, Vanity Fair, L'Officiel, and Italy's Republicca. Wooed by its seductive Baroque atmosphere, the palazzo's new owners enhanced the noble space, restoring its faded beauty and taming any tendency toward sumptuousness in favor of a warm, understated antique elegance. Each unique room reveals authentic architectural treasures, from gracefully curving entries and antique stone floors, to restored ceiling frescos and the original stone sculptures discovered during the renovation. Two grand living rooms join orange-tree-accented courtyards as the estate's welcoming common areas, and the property offers a fully equipped, contemporary kitchen and romantic courtyard swimming pool. In-house gastronomic experiences and master classes, in-house massage treatments, boat tours and other treats can be organized at leisure.

AROUND

Italy’s Salento region fills the country’s iconic boot heel, a land of photogenic villages and wild nature. Lecce might be the region’s most notable village, but Nardò is a lesser-known gem of Italian Baroque architecture. The small city is loved by those who prefer off-the-beaten path locales and traditional Italian village charms, plus ultra-easy beach access on two seashores, the wild Adriatic and crystal clear Ionian. The nearest beaches are Santa Maria al Bagno and Santa Caterina, each about 10 minutes’ drive from the palace, and for adventure seekers and snorkelers, Porto Selvaggio is the pick. 

Punta della Suina offers a mix of pebble and sand, plus shallow waters ideal for lazy swimming, and Nardò’s Torre Uluzzo is a favorite for sunset swimmers. The region offers historical villages for exploring. Take in medieval Galatina, the island city of Gallipoli, and the coastal trio of Castro, Tricase and Santa Cesarea Terme. Clean waters and fishing hamlets translate to delicious fish and shellfish offerings at unassuming cafes. Vineyards and olive groves punctuate the region in classic Italian style, and sporty types can kite surf or hike, fish or cycle or simply beachcomb and sunbathe on the Adriatic or the Ionian. Take your pick.

LOCATION

Nardò, Lecce, Italy. Nearest airport: Brindisi (55Kkm)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: April to October