Located along the ancient route between Lecce and the Romanesque Abbey of S. Maria a Cerrate, Masseria Giampaolo, with its imposing 15th-century tower, preserves centuries of life and traditions. After a period of abandonment, the Masseria was reborn in 2000 thanks to a careful and painstaking restoration that brought it back to its original splendour. Its spectacular panorama and historical details, such as the ‘caditoie’ and the ‘piombatoio’, the Roman road and the pool with spring water, create an atmosphere out of time.
Here, every corner gives emotions and every detail tells a story, offering guests an exclusive and fascinating stay, immersed in the magic of Apulia.
Masseria Giampaolo is one of the sixteen historic farmsteads that were once part of the feudal estate of the Abbey of Santa Maria di Cerrate. Among them, it was the most significant due to the vastness of its lands and its strategic location along the ancient road connecting Lecce to Cerrate.
This essential architectural complex is dominated by a monumental sixteenth-century tower, equipped with numerous machicolations, including one above the entrance gate, and a drawbridge that once interrupted the upper landing of the staircase (now lost). Of exceptional value and beauty are the two underground “trappeti” (olive oil mills), which extend beneath the entire courtyard.
In 1608, the property belonged to the Tafuri family, who sold it in 1616 to Giandomenico Cigala for 7,800 ducats. It was later inherited by his son Bernardino. Originally known as “GioPaulo,” this vast masseria complex included, in addition to the tower-building: “eight ground-level houses, huts, a well, an oil mill, a dovecote, two gardens with common trees, an oven, and a functioning mill.” The entire estate was enclosed by walls, with the tower at its center, serving as the heart of the settlement and the focal point of all activities.
In 1690, Giò Cigala, presumably Bernardino’s son, sold the Masseria to the Monastery of San Giovanni in Lecce for 9,500 ducats. Following the suppression of ecclesiastical properties, it passed to the State and was later purchased in 1866 by Giuseppe Libertini. Over the years, the masseria fell into a state of abandonment until 2000, when it was acquired by Mrs. Annalisa Fedele Piccini. Thanks to her meticulous and non-invasive restoration, the tower and its adjacent structures have been returned to their original splendor.
Today, Masseria Giampaolo has regained its ancient charm. The agricultural activities, the vast expanses of olive trees, the lush Mediterranean vegetation, and the ever-changing scents and colors of nature transport visitors into another dimension. It is here that one can truly understand the deep bond that has always connected the people of the South to their land.
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Carved in stone and enveloped in a timeless atmosphere, the underground oil mill encapsulates the essence of agricultural work and the deep connection with the land.
masseria giampaolo
Masseria Giampaolo preserves history and tradition in sophisticated surroundings. The Tower Suite, the largest on the estate, combines medieval details and modern comfort, offering breathtaking views of olive trees, the sea and a sun terrace. The Master Suite, with star vaults and carparo masonry, and the elegant Deluxe rooms allow you to experience the charm of the Salento without sacrificing comfort.
masseria monacelli
The ‘Rifugio del Re’ Restaurant offers a unique experience of conviviality and charm, with a panoramic terrace offering exciting views of Tenuta Monacelli’s olive grove, perfect for spring and summer evenings.
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