Nominated by Archilovers among the 1000 best projects in the world, and named after the ancient Greek word for silence, this peaceful vacation home rental in Italy's Salento region was restored from a rural building dating back to the 17th century. 

Constructed of locally quarried stone that the peninsula has produced for centuries, the home was renovated to highlight and preserve its natural beauty and historic and cultural significance. 

Inspired by the structural design and attributes of the nearby monastery of San Nicola di Casola, local craftsmen carefully and authentically rehabilitated the structure, revealing the graceful arches and historic features while infusing it with a few spirited modern elements. A soothing neutral palette and a decorative crosshatch design motif is repeated throughout the house and featured on many of the artisanal furnishings and decor designed by the owner.  The home also features a ceramic collection inspired by the theme of silence, created by the architect and artist Vincenzo D'Alba from Kiasmo.

The sheltered rooftop terrace and pool is a rarity in these parts and provides a little oasis in serene privacy.

Just outside of the town of Alessano in the southernmost part of Puglia, this vacation home for rent in Italy takes you back in time. 

Restored from the remains of a 17th century dwelling, the house was thoroughly updated but stylistically preserved to highlight the historic value, with modern design elements and amenities skillfully integrated. From the rustic floor tiles and stone arches, old and new are perfectly calibrated. 

The all-in-one living space includes a fully equipped kitchen and dining space and lounge space that opens out to the terrace. There is one bedroom that can sleep three and one bathroom. 

The external spaces also recall the architectural traditions of the Salento region, with the terrace and newly designed pool crafted from the beautifully restored stone. 

THE SALENTO PENINSULA

Located at the southernmost part of Italy’s heel, known as the Salento Peninsula, the home is within a short drive from a number of authentic and charming Italian villages.

The stunning baroque city of Lecce, known as the Florence of the South, lies an hour north and the lovely UNESCO port town of Otranto on the Adriatic side of the peninsula is a forty-five minute drive.

The Adriatic coast features some of Salento's best beaches including Torre Del Orso Santa Andrea and Alimini as well as those of the Ionian coast. The luxurious seaside resorts of Leuca and Santa Cesarea Terme at the very tip of "the boot" are twenty minutes south.

LOCATION 

Alessano, Puglia, Italy. Nearest Airport: Brindisi Salento Airport (105km)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring through Fall