Overview
The history of Federico family is so prestigious that leaves you overawed, and begins with Emperor Frederic II of Hohenstaufen. The palace itself was built on the ancient Punic-Roman walls which, in ancient times, surrounded Palermo. The southern tower is one of the few remains of those ancient walls, while the rest of the building dates back to the 12th century and it's in Arab-Norman style. Above the double-arched windows you can still see the coat of arms of Hohenstaufen family, of the Spanish kingdom of Aragona and of Palermo municipality. In the course of centuries the palace has undergone several reconstructions. That's why you may notice traces of different architectural styles: high painted ceilings from the 14th century, baroque frescoes by Vito D'Anna and Gaspare Serenario, several 17th century sculptures - such as the lion fountain by Marabitti, the grand staircase decorated by Marvuglia in the 19th century. The innumerable halls of this magnificent mansion are filled up with valuable antiques and paintings.The weapon collection in the knights' hall will leave you breathless! In other words, a stay in this historical palace will be a unique experience for you!
Property details
Count and Countess Federico have suitably adapted several rooms in their own mansion to receive guests. Their masterpiece is the "Suite Federico" - with its amazing monumental bed and wardrobe built with panels taken from the music hall ceiling, brocade curtains, and ancient furniture, paintings and carpets. Two double rooms sharing a bathroom - which can be used to host your children - complete this sleeping quarter on the upper floors of the palace, which can therefore offer 6 sleeps, and is located next to the concert room - with beautiful frescoed ceiling - and other wonderful halls and parlours. The top floors host the pretty and original kitchen and a studio, while the ancient stables in the internal courtyard have been converted into 5 unique medieval style mini-apartments, all with en-suite bathroom.
Area details
Palazzo Federico is located in the most ancient town quarter, the Cassaro. A few yards away you'll find the Modern Art Gallery and the Contemporary Art Gallery, and also the major town monuments and museums. The area is also crowded with all kinds of shops, sandwich bars, grill-rooms, ice-cream and pastry makers, bars, pubs and night clubs for all tastes. The Central Railway Station is at 10min walking distance, and from there trains and regional buses towards urban and suburban destinations leave. Therefore, if you wish to reach Mondello beach, or have a trip to Monreale - to visit its amazing Cathedral - Cefalù or Trapani - to walk among the streets of their pretty historical centres - Segesta - to visit the suggestive Doric Temple and the splendid still working ancient Theatre - Erice - to experiment the fascination of an old medieval village - Bagheria - to see its gorgeous Baroque villas - you just have to get there and choose where to go!
Additional Information
Count and Countess Federico will be your special guides around their 12th century palazzo, and will be glad to help you planning your stay in Palermo.
Guests booking the Federico Suite will have their breakfast served in one of the amazing halls of the palace. The 2 double rooms next to Federico Suite will be destined only to members of your own group. We won't rent the Palazzo’s internal sleeping quarter to different groups of guests, therefore the place will be at your exclusive use.
Guests booking the 5 mini-apartments located in the internal courtyard may book guided tours of Palazzo Federico only on Mondays and Fridays. Their breakfast won't be served in the palace, but Count and Countess Federico will be glad to suggest them a few lovely bars in the surrounding area where they can have an excellent Italian breakfast.
Releated Press Articles
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Island life? Palazzo Federico - 7 February 2009
Island life? Palazzo Federico - 7 February 2009
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THE INDEPENDENT: If you crave personality as well as historic architecture, the Palazzo Federico in Palermo should fit the bill. Dating back to the 12th-century, it is stuffed with chandeliers, heirloom portraits and an antique weapon collection. A big selling point here is that the current count and countess are usually on hand to guide you around in person. A guest room, the Federico Suite, has been available for several years. In addition, the palazzo now offers new self-catering apartments, set in the old stables. Each sleeps two and rental rates start at €190 per night. You can book through Solo Sicily (020-7193 0158; solosicily.com).
Article on The Independent website