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October 8, 2024updated Oct 14, 2024

First Look at Palazzo Castelluccio, Rocco Forte’s Third Sicilian Hotel

Set in the heart of the Unesco World Heritage town of Noto, Palazzo Castelluccio will open its doors in 2026.

By Ellys Woodhouse

The summer might be drawing to a close, but the allure of Sicily is proving timeless. Not least for Rocco Forte Hotels, which is set to deepen its connection on the Italian island with the opening of its third hotel in Scilly. The luxury hotel group has unveiled new imagery of its latest project: Palazzo Castelluccio, a stunning transformation of an 18th-century palace, scheduled to open in 2026.

Set in the heart of the Unesco World Heritage town of Noto, Palazzo Castelluccio, one of the town’s largest former palaces, is set to offer 31 rooms, in addition to a restaurant, bar, garden lounge, spa and fitness facilities.

[See also: Inside Belmond’s Dreamy Debut Sicilian Beach Club]

Palazzo Castelluccio is one of the largest former palaces in the Unesco World Heritage site of Nato / ©Mattia Aquila, Rocco Forte Hotels

Originally built in 1782, for Palazzo Castelluccio, Rocco Forte Hotels enlisted the help of Paolo Moschino and Philip Vergeylen to work on the former palace. Speaking upon the announcement, Moschino and Vergeylen expressed their vision for the property, saying: “Palazzo Castelluccio is more than just a luxury hotel – it’s a journey through time, where guests can immerse themselves in the splendor of Sicily’s golden age.” 

“Every element has been thoughtfully selected to ensure that the past is not only remembered but celebrated in every detail. The hotel will transport guests to a time when grand balls and princely receptions fill its magnificent halls. Stepping through its doors will feel like entering another era – a time when opulence was the norm and elegance a way of life.”

Paolo Moschino and Philip Vergeylen worked on transforming the former 18th-century palace / ©Mattia Aquila, Rocco Forte Hotels

In the first look, photos reveal shimmering, blue silk-covered walls and majestic crystal chandeliers hanging above the carefully restored, original Caltagirone ceramic floors. In each of the 31 guest rooms, beautifully decorated trompe l’oeil walls and rich fabrics add to the luxe feel, while antiques sourced from the finest auction houses create an atmosphere of refined elegance. 

When it opens its doors in 2026, Palazzo Castelluccio will be the third outpost on the Italian island for the brand, joining Villa Igiea in the capital of Palermo and Verdura Resort in Sciacca. Moreover, it is the fourth new opening planned over the next three years for the brand, joining the likes of Milan, Sardinia and Naples that are set to open. 

Sourced antiques honor the history of Palazzo Castelluccio / ©Mattia Aquila, Rocco Forte Hotels

On the impact of signing in Noto, Rocco Forte Hotel’s director of development, Charles Forte, said: “The acquisition of Palazzo Castelluccio is an exciting event in our company’s growth. In line with our focus on intimate and beautiful hotels in prime locations, the 31-bedroom hotel will deliver a unique charm and authenticity which are characteristic of Rocco Forte Hotels.”

roccofortehotels.com

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