Rocco Forte has long secured Sicily as a luxury destination. Now, an 18th-century palace enriches the portfolio.
Sicily seems to hold a special place in the heart of the Sir Rocco Forte family. In addition to the stunning Verdura Resort, the family business also operates Villa Igeia and the Rocco Forte Private Villas. Now, the Palazzo Castelluccio joins the Rocco Forte Sicily portfolio. And it’s not just any addition—it’s an 18th-century palace near the town of Noto. For this endeavor, the luxury brand is relying on familiar, trusted names for the implementation.
Palazzo Castelluccio
Via Camillo Benso Conte di Cavour, 10, 96017 Noto SR, Italy
Opening: 2026
Palazzo Castelluccio is one of the largest palaces in the city of Noto. Located in the heart of the city, it was built in 1782 for the influential nobleman Marquis di Lorenzo del Castelluccio. It wasn’t until 2018 that the public gained access. Visitors marveled at the walls covered in blue silk, the imposing crystal chandeliers, and the original Caltagirone ceramic floors.
Paolo Moschino and Philip Vergeylen, who have already been responsible for past projects for Rocco Forte, are once again at work this time. With great care, they are transforming the elegant 50,000 square meter 18th century residence into a modern luxury hotel. Future guests can already look forward to 31 rooms and suites that will turn Palazzo Castelluccio into a breathtaking jewel.
“Der Palazzo Castelluccio is a perfect fit for us, with an inspiring story and an enchanting aesthetic that tells the history of the place. Each room will combine the charm of heritage with modern luxuryto convey the same timeless grandeur that characterizes the rest of the Palazzo erfüllt”, so Olga Polizzi.
Die beiden Designer gehen sogar noch weiter. Paolo Moschino und Philip Vergeylen erklären: “Palazzo Castelluccio ist mehr als nur ein Luxushotel – es ist eine Zeitreise, bei der die Gäste in die Pracht des goldenen Zeitalters Siziliens eintauchen können.” They chose every element of the new Rocco Forte Sicily member carefully to ensure that the past is not only remembered, but celebrated in every detail. One feels transported back to a time when grand balls and festive receptions were regularly on the agenda. Or, to say it with the designers: a time when opulence was the norm and elegance was a way of life.
The opening of Palazzo Castelluccio is anticipated for 2026. You can look forward not only to exclusive accommodations but also to numerous activities in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Noto. Before that, The Carlton is set to open in Milan in 2025, followed by two openings on the Costa Smeralda in Sardinia in 2026. Rocco Forte is clearly on an expansion course, and it seems to be quite successful.
