Hotel for Sale Ispica, Via Meli

PALAZZO GAMBUZZA – RESTORED 18TH-CENTURY NOBLE RESIDENCE AND BOUTIQUE HOSPITALITY PROPERTY IN SICILY In the historic heart of Ispica, in south-eastern Sicily, Palazzo Gambuzza is an exceptional 18th-century noble residence combining authentic architecture, generous spaces and an established hospitality vocation. Once the home of the family of Baron Gambuzza, the palazzo stands on Via Giovanni Meli, beside the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and the magnificent Loggiato del Sinatra, in the celebrated Val di Noto and close to its UNESCO-listed Baroque towns. Officially protected for its historic and architectural importance, the property was comprehensively restored in two phases, in 2008 and 2011. The restoration preserved its original Sicilian character while introducing modern systems and contemporary comfort. Today it is presented in excellent condition, fully equipped and ready for immediate use, with no major renovation work required. The estate occupies a plot of over 1,000 m² and is arranged over two floors above ground, offering approximately 950 m² of usable built area: around 700 m² for residential and hospitality use and approximately 250 m² of commercial space. The residential section comprises eight independent apartments, each with a living area and open-plan kitchen, one or two bedrooms, and one or two bathrooms. Ulivo, Agave and Ficodindia are on the ground floor; Fiori, Angeli, Mori, Loggiato and Pupi are on the first floor. Ulivo and Agave are characterful lofts with traditional cane ceilings and wooden mezzanines; Ficodindia opens onto the garden; Loggiato preserves an original 18th-century floor and a remarkable 16th-century fresco; and Pupi is an exceptionally bright later addition dating from the late 1950s. Six separate street numbers — Via Giovanni Meli 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 — provide exceptional flexibility for independent access and potential subdivision or separate-unit use, subject to the relevant authorisations. At ground level, three interconnected commercial premises extend over approximately 250 m² and are suitable for breakfast service, conferences, exhibitions, receptions and private events. A remarkable visitable historic cistern of approximately 280 m³, originally supplied by rainwater flowing from the square in front of the Basilica, adds a truly unique architectural feature. A characterful breakfast room of about 50 m² supports the hospitality function. Outdoor spaces are equally generous and rare for a property in the historic centre: a private garden of approximately 230 m², panoramic terraces totalling about 185 m², and around 160 m² of courtyards and covered porticoes. A further 45 m² is dedicated to technical and service areas. Original and traditional materials give every room a distinctive Sicilian atmosphere: antique floors, decorated cement tiles, terrazzo, Sicilian terracotta, marble and local stone, together with historic ceilings and frescoed details. Wooden windows with double glazing ensure comfort while respecting the character of the building. The property also benefits from central heating and air conditioning with independent controls, home automation, video surveillance, and certified electrical and plumbing installations completed after 2008. Furniture, appliances, tableware, bed linen and hospitality accessories are included, allowing a new owner to continue operations with minimal interruption. Palazzo Gambuzza has served as a setting for celebrated Italian film and television productions, including “Divorce Italian Style” and “Inspector Montalbano”, inspired by the stories of Andrea Camilleri, adding cultural prestige to an already extraordinary residence. The coast and beaches are only approximately 5–7 km away. Noto, Modica, Scicli, Ragusa and Syracuse are easily accessible, while Comiso Airport is approximately 50 minutes away and Catania International Airport about 90 minutes away. A large public parking area is available directly in front of the property and is monitored by video surveillance. Palazzo Gambuzza offers outstanding versatility: an elegant family residence, a turnkey boutique hospitality property, a cultural or events venue, an art gallery, a prestigious corporate headquarters, or a property with potential for separate-unit use or sale. A rare opportunity to acquire a fully restored Sicilian palazzo where history, architecture, tourism and investment potential come together in one remarkable property.