Historic Palazzo Reborn: New Luxury Hotel in Puglia, Italy

A restored 14th-century stone palazzo in Puglia’s White City, Italy, has reopened as a luxury hotel. Vista Ostuni features 28 spacious rooms and suites that reflect local Apulian hospitality and craftsmanship.

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© Vista Ostuni

Originally built as a convent and later converted into a tobacco-processing factory, the palazzo has been brought back to life by RMA Studio and designer Roberto Murgia. The restoration revitalized nearly 20,000 square feet of historic interiors, preserving architectural features such as lofty ceilings, the cloister and the grand entrance. A newly installed glass ceiling in the central cloister introduces abundant natural light, creating bright communal spaces that respect the building’s historic character while offering modern comfort.

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© Vista Ostuni

Wellness is central to the guest experience. The hotel houses a year-round spa offering treatments and products from Biologique Recherche, complemented by a tranquil indoor pool and a fully equipped fitness area. On the rooftop, an infinity pool provides seasonal and year-round relaxation set among Mediterranean olive groves. Guests at the rooftop pool enjoy open views and the fragrant surroundings of aromatic herbs and fruit trees that define the property.

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© Vista Ostuni

Culinary offerings emphasize regional produce and refined techniques. Michelin-starred chef Andrea Berton oversees the menu at Berton al Vista, where dishes spotlight Apulia’s high-quality ingredients. Bianca Bistrot serves as an all-day option in a garden-and-pool setting, welcoming guests for breakfast, aperitivos and dinner. For more informal moments, Chiostro Bar and the rooftop infinity pool bar provide settings for cocktails, light bites and relaxed conversation.

The grounds extend over a planted 3-hectare garden designed by Erik Dhont, celebrating the Apulian Mediterranean landscape. The garden includes a courtyard framed by ancient olive and carob trees, alongside palm and citrus plantings and a traditional fountain, creating calm outdoor rooms that connect guests to the region’s natural beauty.

Vista Ostuni blends careful historic restoration with contemporary hospitality: restored architectural details, thoughtfully designed guest rooms, wellness facilities and regionally driven dining all contribute to a refined yet authentic stay in Puglia’s iconic White City.