LUXURY TRAVEL 17
The noble Palazzo Ducale Venturi , once called Castello Nuovo , is recognised as a historical residence , and offers five centuries of history , art and culture and hints of the extensive past can be found in every nook and corner . Restored under the supervision of The Ministry of Cultural Heritage , once through the door , visitors are greeted by an enormous antique fireplace in the lobby , and in the garden , they can admire a well , made from Lecce stone dating back to the 13th century . Each of the guest rooms are different , with the design offering a taste of the original Apulian palazzo style but with a modern twist . Majority of the rooms in the main building feature original 16th century vaulted ceilings and art work , typical of old Salento architecture and in the corridor on the first floor , guests will even see an old wooden door set into the wall like a work of art . Legend has it that the Duke Venturi himself had a passionate love affair with the Abbess of the convent near the present-day Church of St Anthony in town and in order to meet her , he had an underground tunnel built , which still exists , connecting the palazzo to the monastery . Throughout the hotel guests can also admire its extensive art collection of modern and classic works of art , from original paintings and sculptures to statues .
Choosing to stay at Palazzo Ducale Venturi , guests can relax and regenerate at the dedicated spa , which is the first in Puglia to offer cryotherapy , a hi-tech treatment that operates at -190 ° for extensive health benefits . Guests can also find a massage room , well-equipped gym and the ancient oil mill has been restored to be the hotel ’ s
heated underground swimming pool . After a swim in the palazzo ’ s pools , guests can stretch out in Pilates or yoga class in the garden . For those wishing to personalise their stay with a classic or typically Mediterranean fragrance in their rooms , the hotel has a remarkable selection of essential oils to choose from .
Issue 53 2022 THE ART OF LUXURY