Palazzo Maresgallo Suites & Spa

Palazzo Maresgallo is a truly gorgeous structure in the beating heart of Lecce. Photographs do no justice to the sophisticated, highly curated, presentation of the interiors. The mix of antiques, designer furniture, objects d’art speak to a curator of exceptional taste. Our junior suite (Genesis) was gorgeous- high ceiling, elegant sitting area, extensive hanging space, and serious style. Comfort is also perfectly considered- the bed was divine, bathroom spacious and elegant, filtered water available with a selection of soft drinks. The outside spaces are also wonderful- the secret garden intimate, green and beautiful with a lovely pool- a pleasant place to sit in the evening or afternoon. The rooftop has extraordinary views and is expansive (I would dream of hosting a party on that roof). The service is very responsive via WhatsApp or the small front office of the hotel. Valerio is a true champion who went above and beyond to rescue our stay (more on that below). They arranged two wonderful dinners for us- one at Tabisca and the other Cucina Mamma Elvira. Breakfast is also wonderful- full of fresh salads, baked goods and cakes- just wonderful- and a little more interesting than most Italian luxury hotels. Lecce is a diamond- a gorgeous city that warrants a couple of days of strolls and exploration- it’s one of our favourites in Italy. The palazzo has a remarkable sense of place. There are two major logistic problems with the property, one relates to access, the other car parking. Due to the combination of these issues, I would not currently recommend Palazzo Maresgallo to any tourist on a driving tour of Puglia. Access: The hotel is within metres of the Duomo Square and just off the main pedestrian zones of the historical centre. Driving into the maze of tight alleys requires caution during the morning and early afternoon, but is manageable. We arrived at 7:30pm during evening stroll- when the whole town is out and alive. It was nightmarish navigating the sea of people- the collision sensors were screeching the entire time- I’ve attached a photo of one of the streets you need to drive down taken the following night… (we are in our thirties and have driven extensively in Italy, including Downtown Rome and Palermo and are confident drivers in Italy with no previous issues). An elegant Italian couple (one from Puglia) we met at a cooking class the next day said that it was extraordinary that we had driven down these roads at 8:00pm and that they would never do it. If arriving by car, ensure the arrival precedes 7pm (and preferably before 6pm during siesta) to avoid very difficult driving conditions with pedestrians. Parking: We would not, under any circumstances, stay at Palazzo Maresgallo with the current parking arrangements if we were driving. The parking situation for us was shambolic and catastrophic. While the Palazzo are very candid that there is no parking, I was assured on multiple occasions of the availability of an external c

We were looking for an authentic destination in Puglia. The Palazzo Maresgallo exceeded every expectation. From the spacious and well-appointed suite, to the art-filled public spaces, to the warm and welcoming staff this place is perfect. Miriam and her team went out of their way to make our visit special. We would absolutely stay here on our next visit to Lecce.