Palazzo Maresgallo: A Unique, Art-Inspired Stay in Southern Puglia

By Cassie Gill

Art collector Miriam Gazzola and her husband Lionel transformed a 16th-century palazzo into one of Italy’s most exquisite hotels.

Historic Lecce is one of many in Italy’s buzzy Puglia region, best known visually as the country’s “boot.” Renowned for baroque architecture, the Meditteranean town has a unique charm thanks to its romantic buildings made of local limestone, adding a golden hue to the city.

Nestled just steps from Lecce’s town center is the beautifully restored Palazzo Maresgallo. The boutique hotel is housed in a 16th-century palazzo revamped by Miriam and Lionel Gazzola. The fabulous pair – Miriam is an art collector while Lionel is an architect – showcase their creative genius in the art-inspired space which, alone, makes this place a must-see.

After navigating our Alfa Romeo rental through the narrow streets of Lecce, pulling up to the palazzo felt like something out of a film. We were quickly whisked through the palatial archway into the lobby, adorned with plants and a sitting area. A palm tree next to a staircase gave the place a bit of a Moroccan riad vibe, a theme that subtly popped up in other areas of this gorgeous home-turned-hotel. 

This property is somehow elegant, stylish, and eccentric – while also being old world and modern – all at the same time: suffice to say, this makes for an exceptionally one-of-a-kind stay. Miriam opted for an unexpected contemporary aesthetic in her furniture choices throughout the place, bringing color, texture, and drama. At times, Palazzo Maresgallo felt like we were staying at a rich aunt’s house (with plenty of style, of course). 

Each of the 15 rooms and suites are distinctive from each other, but on theme with a mix of contemporary and antique aesthetic: think art deco, but avant-garde. Even in the smaller rooms, the Palazzo’s modern bathrooms were impressive in design. The hotel pays tribute to its old world heritage with marble tubs and showers – shades ranging from black to white and neutral browns, depending on the room. Rooms are outfitted with Danish-label Moooi for its bath products, adding to the elevated, modern aesthetic with their circle-shaped packaging. 

Downstairs, the plunge pool is a superb place to cool down on a hot day – and there will be many durin an Apulian summer. The tranquil area is a heavenly oasis, almost hidden in the Palazzo’s private garden – and once again, channeling energy from viral Morroccan riads that have charmed the internet in recent years.

Adjacent to the pool is the contemporary and elegant breakfast area. Mornings are a delight at the Palazzo, with chic details that keep this place entirely unique. Tables are set both inside and out. Design lovers will lust after the elegant and modern table settings, as well as the beautifully displayed Salentine breakfast spread with local pastries, cheeses, and charcuterie. Even the cappuccino was perfezione right down to the gorgeous cup, while eggs are made to order.

After a day of exploring Lecce, unwind with a spritz on Palazzo Maresgallo’s charming rooftop terrace accented with shabby chic furnishings and cacti. Soak in the sunset with one of Lecce’s best views before checking out of this incredible boutique hotel that might just call you back for a second visit.