Palazzo “Bersale” in the historic center of Galatina

The mansion, born as an ancient olive oil mill for processing olives and active since 1500, it is the result of a skilful renovation work designed by French artists which gave rise to a unique residence on three levels. The ground floors, the first and second are connected by a spiral staircase in Lecce stone which once led to the top of the tower which stands out imposingly on the façade. The rarity of this building is the presence of two panoramic terraces on the first and last floors and the high ceilings which enhance the internal volumes. The total covered area is approx 360 mq with 2 lounges, one of which is at the entrance on the ground floor and one with a fireplace, 4 rooms each with its own bathroom, a study, a large kitchen with windows that separate it from the living area and the 2 splendid terraces The first terrace of this ancient Salento building is located on the first floor, thus extending the living area adjacent to the kitchen towards the outside, giving rise to an evocative space of approximately 50 m2 where you can set up wonderful candlelit tables surrounded by the stone architecture of the historic center and thus dominating the square in front. The largest terrace beyond 100 m2 is located on the top floor and is accessed from a room used as a study with bathroom or double bedroom. This last terrace, which has a small swimming pool and solarium area, it is furnished with a beautiful pergola and allows the view to sweep over the typical Salento roofs in a succession of volumes and ancient stones. It lends itself to hosting wonderful terracotta vases with native plants that would make this outdoor space a suggestive oasis on the roofs of Galatina. The conditions of this building are perfect both externally and internally having been the subject of a skilful and meticulous restoration that has enhanced its beauty and brought ancient decorations and stones back to life. Contemporary materials have been chosen to complement the ancient walls and wonderful vaulted ceilings. The two living rooms have barrel vaults in exposed Lecce stone , flanked by white plastered walls with hints of color that give modernity to the structure thus conveying the technological comfort that accompanies this ancient building. Kitchen and bathrooms follow the contemporary design which goes well with the testimonies of the ancient. Resin floors for the interiors in continuity with the same color of the Lecce stone of the exteriors, they give a sense of linearity and cleanliness in the formal choices of the renovation. The exteriors overlooking the square have plastered surfaces that flank the exposed Lecce stone of the tower.

This is a wonderful architectural work from the past, testimony to the region's olive oil traditions, which is suitable today, given its central and at the same time strategic location, as a holiday home in Salento that can be used throughout the year given the mild climate of the region or even as a first home to live in, alone, as a couple or family. A strategic starting point to discover the historical and natural wonders of the Puglia region.