N° 051 | Exclusive Residence
Luca Giannini is an Italian artist and very passionate about this project he started in 2017; to give new life to abandoned places, to listen to their souls, and intervene with respect and balance. To harmonize bio-architecture, design, and contemporary art with original features and local materials. It is more than a project, it is a vision Lucca has been pursuing his entire life.
When Lucca first discovered this place it was in ruins. However, he discovered remnants of ancient stones scattered around, dilapidated walls adorned with exquisite antique embellishments, and aged trees and plants thriving in the sun-drenched garden. In truth, Lucca felt it was a remarkable little oasis, featuring vibrant mandarin and lemon trees, a babbling fountain, and a harmonious play of light and shadow. This enchanting setting captivated his heart. Emanating a sense of history and tranquility, he was immediately convinced "There is potential here, waiting to be unlocked." Together with his team, Iolanda Buonomo and Paolo Smurra, they took on this project and they certainly managed to unlock its potential and more. Welcome to a new concept of staying in Sicily!
Art and traveling share the value of discovering beauty.
The Space
A refined 16th-century Mediterranean residence, situated in the historic center of Modica, next to the cathedral of S. Giorgio, a masterpiece of Sicilian baroque. It is the ideal retreat for aesthetes and travelers, a place of inspiration for poets and artists, and an exclusive location for special occasions, where you can enjoy complete privacy whilst being in touch with the ancient soul of Sicily. Upon entering the residence you will discover your own private oasis of nature, stone, and silence. A major restoration has brought back to life this centuries-old Mediterranean abode, which comprises 3 refined bedrooms with 3 en-suite bathrooms, a living area, and a kitchen with a wine cave cellar. The lime and clay floors and plasters, the beds on a concrete base, and the vaulted ceilings evoke elegant minimalistic atmospheres embellished by decorated local stones, antique Sicilian bedspreads, and bespoke sculptured washbasins. The specific features of each suite refer to the three elements of Water, Air, and Fire complements the element of Earth of the garden.
The living area is a charming space retaining features of the old structure, such as carved on an architrave, the date of 1554 which identifies the year the property was built, at the time of the Spanish rule of Modica. The stylish kitchen island, with its stone archway, is a functional space where you can have breakfast or dinner in the winter. The underground cistern with its original plaster, which can be accessed from a striking staircase made of iron and glass, has been converted into a wine cellar with a selection of organic and natural wines. The garden and the terrace, with stunning views over the cathedral of San Giorgio, are places for meditation where one can enjoy silence and reconnect with the earth. Sheltered by tall walls, you can relax in the stone hot tub, enjoy a massage under the pomegranate tree, have dinner, or read in the shadows of the citrus trees. You will be entering a dimension that combines the silence of the *hortus conclusus of the monasteries with the secret harmonies of the Arab gardens.
*"Hortus conclusus" is a Latin term that translates to "enclosed garden" or "enclosed orchard." It refers to a traditional concept of a secluded and enclosed garden, typically found in medieval and Renaissance art and literature. The hortus conclusus symbolizes a place of refuge, purity, and spiritual contemplation.
Sustainability
At Plinius we are always impressed when a renovation has been completed in the most sustainable manner, we therefore would like to share the details of what is implemented in this property. 100% electric supply from renewable sources, solar thermal panels, clay and lime floors and wall coatings, cork insulated roof, Domodry@ rising damp control system, eco paints, integrated air conditioning and water heating system with heat pump, led-lighting, water flow reducers, separate waste collection, Ecolabel refill soap, and shampoo
Art
We are equally impressed by the artworks showcased inside the property by Luca Giannini. The great thing is that the artworks are available to buy! Check out the art here.
The Surroundings
In this unique corner of Sicily, where history and nature are combined with people's hospitality and eno-gastronomic excellence, we have created an insider's guide with the best places to visit. For example, the territory's best vineyards or visit our favorite chocolate ateliers, Antica Dolceria Bonajuto led by Pierpaolo Ruta (the most ancient confectionery in Sicily) Discover Modica and the UNESCO baroque cities of Val di Noto, or immerse yourself in the Greek charm of Syracuse.
Extra Services
Private chef, breakfast service, massages, private tours, wine tasting, cooking class, chocolate tasting, electrical bike rentals, transfers, and chauffeur.
*Accommodation can be booked for 2, 4 or 6 people.
Plinius Loves
The whole concept speaks to us greatly: “to give new life to abandoned places, to listen to their souls, and intervene with respect and balance. To harmonize bio-architecture, design, and contemporary art with original features and local materials”.
The artworks showcased inside the property by Italian artist Luca Giannini: Check out the art here.
Everything that has been done to create a sustainable building as well as a sustainable rental business. It is very impressive
Live like a local! It might just be for a week, but you really feel you are living here. The most authentic Sicilian experience.
Nearest Airport
Comiso Pio La Torre (42 km) | Catania Fontanarossa (125 km)
Contact: Do you have any questions, or if you like to combine other destinations and properties within the area for your travel itinerary? Please do not hesitate to contact us at: info@plinius.homes
Prices 2025 | Price transparency: Plinius is completely transparent about the prices, we do not charge a booking fee or add any additional charges.
High season: 15 June - 14 September | 29 December - 2 January | Min. stay 4 nights | € 380 per night (price for 2 people)
Mid season: 3 - 6 January | 15 March - 14 June | 15 September - 14 November | 21 - 28 December | Min. stay 3 nights | € 310 per night (price for 2 people)
Low season 7 January - 14 March | 15 November - 20 December | Min. stay 2 nights | € 250 per night (price for 2 people)
* Extra guests (up to 6 people) € 40 p.p.
*Babies (0-3 years): free
Long-stay offers % discount on the price per night
7+ nights: 10% discount
14+ nights: 15% discount
21+ nights: 20% discount
Included in the price:
Gas | Electricity | Water
10% Italian VAT
Wine cellar with a selection of Sicilian wines
Towel change every 3 days
Body soap and shampoo
Additional costs:
Security Deposit: € 500 The deposit will be fully refunded upon departure when there is no damage/other issues
Outdoor heated plunge pool (active from May to September, by request with extra price in other periods
Tourist Tax
End-of-stay cleaning: € 100
Cot upon request | € 5 per child, per night
* Extra guests( up to 6 people) € 40 p.p.
Sicilian breakfast service: €18 p.p.
Private dinner by the chef: from € 70 p.p.
Cooking course with own chef (including shopping at the Ortigia market): from Eur 100 per person
Extra Information:
*Please note: Prices are for 2 guests, additional guests € 40 p.p.
Cot upon request | € 5 per child, per night
Free on-street parking on Corso San Giorgio and Corso F. Crispi (5' walk from the house) -
Airport transfer service: available on request
CIN IT088006B482CHK4KU
Contact:
Do you have any questions, or if you like to combine other destinations and properties within the area for your travel itinerary? Please do not hesitate to contact us at: info@plinius.homes
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