Lecce, Italy
Cloister of the Dominicans
Restored Dominican monastery
Restored Dominican monastery
This fifteenth-century friary runs on monastic stillness, organized around a vast arched cloister just outside Lecce's city walls.
What it’s good at
Remarkable
A fifteenth-century Dominican convent organized around stone cloister arches and early frescoes.
Notable
Monks' cells transformed into minimalist suites with poured concrete floors and neutral tones.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
The ancient gate of Porta Rudiae sits five minutes away on foot, leading directly into Lecce's baroque historic center.
The rooms
Upstairs, former monks' cells have poured concrete floors and high ceilings, with several opening onto balconies over the cloister.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
Stone wall fountains flow into the outdoor pool, set behind tall manicured hedges on the garden lawn.
At the table
Gimmi serves contemporary Salento cooking beneath vaulted stone ceilings, and morning breakfasts take over the monastic hall.
How it began
Dominican friars founded the convent in the 1440s, which later served as a refuge and municipal hospital before its restoration.
Lecce
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.