The historic Palazzo Lungarini stands dominantly at a bend in the Via Lungarini, a typically narrow, stone-paved lane that leads from the nearby Garibaldi Gardens in Piazza Marina towards both the Via Vittorio Emanuele and the Via Roma. The Palazzo was built at the end of the XV century and subsequently changed following the different fashions up till the beginning of the XVIII century, when the m
onumental baroque facade was made most probably by Andrea Palma, architect of the Senate of Palermo. Gates open onto a large tranquil courtyard with a fountain and a shady tree. The B&B is safely tucked away at the back of the courtyard in a quiet apartment. A comfortable lounge and ample bedrooms overlook the coutyard with their french windows opening onto balconies. The beautiful architecture of the Palazzo can be enjoyed in a peaceful atmosphere. Conveniently located in the exciting ancient quarter of Palermo, all the central attractions of the city are within easy walking distance. In the other direction, the sea is close by, and the famous Botanic Gardens are a short walk away. Garibaldi Gardens, just down the Via Lungarini, is also of botanical interest with its massive banyan (Magnolie) trees and shady walks. There are modern bathing facilities, and luxurious towels and linen. You can brew English tea at any time in the kitchen, and also coffee. Continental breakfast is served in the morning with lavish rolls and croissants fresh from the panetteria. The Italian love of hospitality has always been strong in my family. My grandfather, the Prince of Sciara and Castelreale, used to invite travellers to stay at his manor house in Raffadali. When my brother and I were teenagers, my mother hosted great numbers of our friends every summer at the small country house we rented in Gibilmanna. I have continued that tradition of hospitality, without interruption. Having moved into this quiet apartment from the grand rooms of the piano nobile of the Palazzo, where my parents still live, I love to share my home and my wonderful, ancient city with guests from far parts of the world. I have a special relationship with English-speaking peoples having spent a decade in England as a student, earning a Ph.D. in History of Art and the Classical Tradition. I am closely involved the cultural life of Palermo, and active in the world of book promotion and art exhibitions. I hope to be up-to-date on cultural events in the city. I hope, also, that history will come alive for visitors staying at the Palazzo Lungarini in the intimate and cultured setting of the apartment. Many of the furnishings were bequeathed by my distinguished grandmother the princess, and were previously in the piano nobile. They give the apartment its boutique charm and comfort.
