Patria Palace Hotel Lecce

Anyone who has tried Chef Ivan's fusion cuisine of typical Salentine and international cuisine will spontaneously want to give him another toque. The GM himself acts as sommelier - you can call him "Mirko". The Basilica of Santa Croce towers directly opposite, and the Roman amphitheater, Piazzetta Sigismondo Castromediano, Piazza Sant'Oronzo and Lecce Castle are just a few minutes' walk away. Salvio, the hotel's concierge, speaks a little German and gives helpful advice - also with regard to driving in the city. Mirko is at our disposal for all other requests and questions. During the tour of the hotel, we learn a lot about the eventful history of the palazzo, which was used by travelers of all kinds and from all over the world from an early age.

Particularly pretty: the newly adapted suite wing on the third floor with rooms overlooking the quiet rear of the hotel. There are also hidden terraces, small bay windows and balconies with views over the rooftops of Lecce. No expense has been spared on the quality of the furnishings, which is immediately apparent: cherry wood and fine leather at the bar, exquisite antiques in the dining room and lobby - and expertly curated local art on the walls everywhere. The newly renovated rooms and suites have a purist, classic and elegant contemporary style with special stucco on the walls, fine parquet flooring and filigree Murano glass design. The rooftop garden with flowerbeds for relaxing or the rooftop terrace are special places for special events. There are still plenty of plans for the future, and there is still room - perhaps even for a spa with a pool and treatment rooms for the cooler winter months.