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In the heart of the Ragusan countryside once stood the farmhouse of Marchesa Carlotta Schininà, a noble estate and historic feud that today lives on as Villa Carlotta, a design hotel that embodies centuries of history.
The property dates back to the late 19th century, a time when the farmhouse served as the economic and social hub of the rural community of Ragusa, which acquired the land following the agrarian reform.
The history of this rural building is still clearly visible today: the stone lintels, for example, still bear the construction dates, which range between 1870 and 1890.
The conservative restoration of Villa Carlotta, aimed at transforming the former rural estate into a boutique design hotel, represents a bridge between past and present.
The main objective of the restoration was to preserve the original stone façade that defines the entire perimeter of the property, while at the same time creating a visual and material continuity between the outdoor and indoor spaces.
Thanks to the expert work of Architrend, Villa Carlotta retains the traditional features that preserve its historic authenticity, while embracing a new contemporary identity.
Today, the historic features of Marchesa Carlotta’s former estate have been enhanced through a minimalist architectural design, created in full respect of the original structure and the surrounding landscape.
The project, designed by architects Gaetano Manganello and Carmelo Tumino, seeks to preserve the beauty of the original stone façade with great sensitivity and a contemporary vision. The harmonious dialogue between modern architecture, defined by glass and iron, and the surrounding rural landscape creates a seamless continuity between tradition and innovation, past and present.
Many parts of the original estate, such as the wine cellar, have taken center stage in this restoration, which brought them back to life by enhancing their existing features and highlighting the property's distinctive longitudinal layout.
Between history, architecture, and sustainability, Villa Carlotta has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002.
