Palazzo Zimara, a 16th-century baroque palazzo transformed into a magnificent boutique hotel

The D’Angelo Family Collection proudly unveils Palazzo Zimara, the newest addition to their portfolio, alongside Villa Mojana, Il Palazzotto Residence & Winery, and Francesco Radino Winery.

Originally built in 1557 as the aristocratic Zimara family’s residence, this iconic Leccese Baroque palazzo has been meticulously transformed by architect Raffaele Centonze into a hotel where heritage, contemporary design, and exceptional hospitality converge.

The property features 16 beautifully restored room and suites, tws o signature restaurants, a serene outdoor garden, and a rooftop terrace (set to open later this year) with panoramic views of Lecce.

Rooms & Suites

The 16 spacious rooms and suites at Palazzo Zimara have been masterfully designed and renovated by Raffaele Centonze. Each has a distinctive layout, with individual room designs responding to their natural structure.

The interiors seamlessly blend historic character with modern elegance, showcasing restored frescoed walls by artisan Annibale D’Ambrosio, original cobblestone floors, 3- meter vaulted ceilings, arched entryways, 18th-century wooden doors, and terracotta ‘cocciopesto’ tiles. Curated elements of décor include illuminated closets by DA A Italia, the INFINITO Sofa by Natuzzi, leather-upholstered beds by Salotificio Scatigna, bespoke lighting by Massimo Maci and Flos, and furniture by Barba Arredi.

The accommodations range from the 32m² entry-level room, featuring a striking original stone-vaulted ceiling, to the expansive 100m² Suite Zimara, a sanctuary of refined elegance in every detail.

The Deluxe Wellness Room

Also known as the «Princess Room,» this room is named after Isabella Scaderberg, a noblewoman from Lecce who resided in the Palazzo during the 1700s. It was her favorite, cherished for its elegant wall colors and feminine decor. Redesigned as a tribute to her, the room features a two-level shower, a rim room, and a private balcony.

The Ferzan Ospetek’ Suite

The Ferzan Ospetek Sanctuary, famously featured in the award-winning film Loose Cannons (2010) by Turkish-Italian director Ferzan Ospetek. With its antique chandelier, al fresco wall paintings, soaring ceilings, and picturesque views, this room embodies refined elegance.

The Suite Zimara

Named after the Palazzo, this is the most distinguished room. Spanning an impressive 100m², the suite offers an unparalleled sense of grandeur and sophistication. Among its distinctive features are in-room jacuzzi, a private sauna, a double bathroom, and a separate living room.

Dining & Drinks

At Palazzo Zimara, mornings begin with a Caffè Leccese, the region’s signature iced coffee sweetened with almond syrup, enjoyed in the peaceful courtyard. Guests are then treated to a grand breakfast, featuring freshly baked pastries, artisanal breads, seasonal fruits, local cheeses, and made-to-order egg dishes or pancakes.

Afternoons shift to the relaxed elegance of the Radino Wine Bistro, where exclusive organic wines from the family-owned Francesco Radino Winery complement small bites. The bistro’s outdoor terrace, nestled along a quiet street, invites guests to savor Italian culture with a glass in hand and people-watching as entertainment.

Evenings at La Bocca Restaurant are dedicated to a km0 gastronomic experience, where Executive Chef Gabriel Piga reinterprets the rich traditions of Puglian cuisine. The chef works closely with local farmers and producers to source zero-kilometer, seasonal ingredients, guaranteeing the freshest flavors while supporting the regional economy. Guests can dine in the cavernous interior or under the stars in the courtyard. Signature dishes include “Misticanza” salad with peach, walnut, and cocoa; Fregola with mussel soup and sea asparagus; Zucchini “Panzanella” with stracciatella Apulian cheese and tuna roe; and Croaker fish in “puttanesca” style.

Later this year, Palazzo Zimara will unveil its crowning feature: a stunning rooftop terrace overlooking Lecce, inviting both guests and locals to unwind from lunch to late dinner.

Personalised Wellness Experiences

Palazzo Zimara partners with the region’s most reputable wellness professionals to offer programs tailored to each client’s preferences. Guests can request private yoga and mindfulness sessions in serene settings such as the courtyard or terrace, focusing on relaxation and balance. Renowned therapists provide personalized bodywork therapies, including massages and holistic treatments, for deep rejuvenation. For fitness enthusiasts, personal trainers are available to create bespoke programs, carried out in the hotel’s fully equipped fitness room. All wellness activities are effortlessly coordinated through the concierge for a seamless experience.

The Surroundings and Local Puglian Culture

Palazzo Zimara’s concierge service curates experiences that highlight Lecce’s rich culture, landmarks, and surroundings. Guests can explore the city’s history with guided tours, including a rare nighttime visit to the Basilica of Santa Croce. Seasonal cooking classes, led by Head Chef Gabriele Piga, are available for private or group sessions in the hotel’s restaurant or courtyard garden. Olive oil tastings at nearby farms provide insights into the region’s agricultural traditions, while access to private beach clubs on the Ionian and Adriatic Seas, including Cinque Vele and Mora Mora, allows guests to unwind in some of the most pristine coastal settings.

Committed to a Sustainable Future

Palazzo Zimara embodies a commitment to sustainability, seamlessly integrating eco- conscious practices into a refined hospitality experience.

An advanced potable water purification system ensures high-quality drinking water on-site, paired with reusable glass bottles refilled daily to eliminate single-use plastics. The property operates entirely plastic-free, with every element—from packaging to daily operations— aligned with environmentally conscious practices. Eco-friendly bathroom amenities are thoughtfully crafted with recyclable materials, offering organic, sustainable products in elegant refillable dispensers. The dining philosophy focuses on zero-kilometer, seasonal ingredients sourced from local producers, ensuring freshness, supporting the regional economy, and reducing the carbon footprint.

The restoration of the historic 16th-century Palazzo was carried out using locally sourced, eco-friendly materials, carefully chosen to preserve its architectural heritage while minimizing environmental impact. This thoughtful approach to restoration highlights the hotel’s respect for the past and its vision for a greener future.