A Monastery Reimagined into Italian Elegance
When pondering the reason d’être of tourism, we inevitably step beyond the borders of science and venture into the dimensions of philosophy. Surprisingly, a philosophical exploration of tourism remains largely overlooked. Yet, amid this uncharted territory, Italians appear to have encapsulated its essence. Italy stands as a treasure trove, offering exquisite nature, art, delectable cuisine, fine wines, and remarkable architecture. Notably, Italians excel in leveraging historic buildings for tourism, contributing to the unique enigmatics of their offerings.
Abruzzo region in central Italy may not be the hot spot, but in the heart of it, the town of Castel di Sangro boasts the exceptional Casadonna—a 16th-century Benedictine monastery turned hotel and culinary academy. Owned by acclaimed chef Niko Romito and his sister Cristiana, the property houses the renowned three-star Michelin restaurant Reale. The 10-room retreat, a result of collaboration between the owners and architect Leonardo De Carlo, reflects a style of “clean and minimal” aesthetics, creating a coherent and authentic experience for gastronomes and travelers alike.
The narrative of the Romiti siblings begins in 2000, revitalizing their father’s trattoria. Eager to expand, they acquired Casadonna in 2007 and relocated the renowned Reale restaurant in 2011, culminating in the recent addition of the hotel. Guided by architect Leonardo De Carlo’s emphasis on material balance, the project embraces recovered wood, iron, glass, ancient stone, ceramics, linen, and boiled wood.
The architectural details include reused marble, cocciopesto-finished walls, and framed glass within thin iron profiles. The ground level hosts the restaurant, kitchen, event room, and Niko Romito’s laboratory, while the upper floors house guest accommodations, a breakfast room, lounge, shop, winery, and unique suites – as the Poesia suite, with an open bedroom and soaking area that features side and bedside tables by Eero Saarinen; or the Reale suit with an Antonio Citterio sofa bed – all with a blend of custom and classic furnishings. The below-grade space, once stables, now holds Reale’s extensive wine collection. The collaborative vision, marketed under the Imperfetto label, combines the Romito’s acquisitions with design classics by renowned names.
Beyond the ancient walls of Casadonna, we can find the vineyard with Pecorino grapes, an orchard, enchanting rose and botanical gardens, and 10 beehives providing homegrown goodies.
From the renowned Reale restaurant to the cozy suites, every detail invites you to savor the essence of la dolce vita. So, dear reader, may your own adventures be sprinkled with the magic that Casadonna whispers. Arrivederci and happy travel!
Source : Interior Design Magazine
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