The palazzo lifestyle in Puglia

Puglia is made up of five provinces—Bari, Brindisi, Foggia, Lecce, and Taranto—each as captivating as the next. And it’s easy to see why! Here, la dolce vita isn’t just a phrase; it’s a way of life, with nearly 300 days of sunshine a year. From the north, where the Umbra Forest serves as Italy’s green lung, to the charming streets of Bari’s historic center, and down to the fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters of Salento in the south, there’s a slice of paradise for everyone.

All that’s left to do is pack your bags and settle into a local palazzo. One offers a rooftop pool, another features a charming courtyard with a stone basin, while another boasts alcoves reminiscent of a grand church… What do they all have in common? Impeccable restorations, carried out by visionary architects and dedicated owners. For a holiday that seamlessly blends luxury and history, embark on a grand tour of these palazzi in Puglia—where an unforgettable stay awaits!

Just 20 minutes from majestic Lecce, a city renowned for its rich Baroque heritage, and only five minutes from its charming neighbor Galatina, Soleto is a small Puglian village where time seems to stand still. With its timeless atmosphere, it feels like stepping onto the set of an old film.

Here, the locals—especially the older generations—still speak Griko, a melodic local language that adds to the village’s unique charm. Sit on a terrace, listen to their conversations, and indulge in a cappuccino paired with pasticciotti, those irresistible cream-filled pastries. Forget about summer body rules—here, pleasure always comes first!

You can’t leave without visiting the Chapel of Santo Stefano, home to stunning frescoes inspired by Giotto. And why stop there? Nestled in the heart of Salento, Soleto offers easy access to both coasts—just 25 minutes away, the Ionian and Adriatic seas compete for travelers’ attention with their crystal-clear waters and breathtaking landscapes. In Puglia, la dolce vita is more than just a saying—it’s a way of life. And once you experience it, you’ll never want it to end.

Puglia reveals its true charm in the off-season when tranquility settles in, and the region takes on a soft, nostalgic beauty. First stop: Neviano, a quaint town in southern Puglia where Palazzo Nianu is quietly tucked away. Here, daily life unfolds at a leisurely pace—starting with an espresso on the terrace among the locals, followed by unhurried strolls through alleyways brimming with authenticity.

Next, head to Lecce, the magnificent city known as the “Baroque Florence” or “Città Chiesa”—the “city of churches,” with over 23 religious buildings in the historic center alone. From the majestic Cattedrale di Lecce to the breathtaking Basilica di Santa Croce and the iconic Roman column of Sant’Oronzo, architecture lovers will be in awe at every turn. For a well-deserved break, the locals recommend Doppiozero, a neighborhood favorite where you can savor delicious pasta paired with a glass of regional wine in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

In the heart of Salento, Palazzo San Vito is a stunning example of historical heritage seamlessly blended with modern comfort. Built in 1850 by a local noble family, the palace was home to generations before being abandoned for fifty years. In 2020, captivated by the beauty of Puglia, Fabio acquired the property and took on the challenge of its restoration in collaboration with Valari Architects.

The result is a home that retains its original charm while offering modern comforts, providing an exceptional setting for up to eight guests. With four bedrooms, four bathrooms, a secluded garden enclosed by tall stone walls, and a pool infused with the fragrance of lemon trees, Palazzo San Vito feels like something straight out of a classic Italian film.

After centuries of abandonment, Palazzo Edmondo has been brought back to life by Matteo Schuerch, a Swiss entrepreneur, art collector, and architecture enthusiast. With the expertise of Studio Luca Baldazzi, he transformed this historic residence into a true gem. Today, it is part of the Moroseta Homes collection, an exclusive selection of carefully restored local villas offering high-end services for an exceptional stay.

Palazzo Edmondo is a true celebration of the art of living in Puglia. Every detail is designed for relaxation, with a range of services ensuring a seamless stay: a sweet and savory seasonal breakfast delivered each morning, an in-house chef (with a fully equipped kitchen), local product deliveries, and personalized experiences such as cooking classes, curated activities, and even massages.