1000 years of history and different empires
In the 10th century, Salento was the beating heart of the Eastern Roman Empire in Southern Italy. The need to control the territory and ports, with the aim of defending the population from Saracen incursions and the marauders of the time, favored the construction of city walls, coastal towers, and castles. The latter served for observation and defense, and it is in this context that Masseria La Millenaria stands.
The Byzantine Church
The 10th century saw the flowering of religious architecture that followed the Greek Orthodox rite. The Byzantine church located at the entrance to La Millenaria is characterised by its small size, central plan (Greek cross) with a dome and a Templar apse, used by the Basilian monks to spread spirituality and connect with the divine.
Over the centuries, fortified manor
The original nucleus of Masseria La Millenaria arose around 1100.
Throughout the Middle Ages, Masseria La Millenaria was a place of initiation, encounters, and cultural exchanges.
A quiet setting, far from inhabited centers, where the Knights Templar gathered to study and meditate. Its proximity to the Adriatic coast and its elevation above the surrounding countryside (masseria La Millenaria is, in fact, elevated above sea level) also made it an excellent military defense station, a nerve center against attacks by the Turks and Saracens. The imposing
structure, its rooms, ancient stairways, and corridors still echo with harmonious sounds and impenetrable enchantments, while the gardens and 12 cypress trees seem to hide the secrets of a mysterious, never-forgotten past.
The exclusive resort in Puglia
La Millenaria, a historic farmhouse two kilometers from the Salento sea, now an exclusive resort surrounded by greenery, still preserves the sacredness of the centuries that have passed through it and of the people who have inhabited it, maintaining authenticity in every structural feature.
The drains, from which boiling oil was thrown at the enemy and the moat, are still clearly visible; the vaulted ceilings, the exposed iron beams and tie rods, the marble and parquet floors, the original stone staircases and the large fireplaces present in each suite evoke the nuances of a time gone by.
The spaces and environments of La Millenaria are living testimony to the clashes and periods of peace between peoples and religions that have occurred in Terra d’Otranto.
The eternal charm of bygone eras lives on in all its splendor in the fortified manor
Marble mosaics on the floors, fine wood furnishings, many of which were created by renowned Italian designers, and doors with their curious and unusual latches have retained their ancient splendor, finely restored by the skilled hands of Umbrian craftsmen.
From whatever angle you look at the farmhouse, it manages to tell its story, like a skilled storyteller.
Here nothing is left to chance.
You’ll be welcomed into the gracious embrace of La Millenaria, lulled by the silence of its gardens, pampered by friendly staff, always attentive to your needs, and intoxicated by the aroma of traditional Salento pastries at breakfast. Fresh aromas will accompany long summer days to the sound of classical or jazz music, while you relax in the waters of our large pool, always in the utmost privacy. And in the evening, dive into the flavors of Mediterranean cuisine in our restaurant.
The atmosphere is that of a timeless fairytale…
Services and amenities
Everything you need to ensure a perfect stay. State-of-the-art amenities include a charming, fully equipped space and a friendly, always-available support team
Airport Pick-up
Housekeeper Services
Wifi & Internet
Wine Bar
Breakfast
Swimming Pool
Running Route
Massage
Concierge Service
Parking Space
Restaurant
Relax Area
Restaurant
Culinary Experiences
Wellness Center
Spa. Sauna. Massage
Celebration
Meetings & Events
Pool
Infinity Pool