Historic hotels in Italy

Italian hotels that claim the title "Residenza d'Epoca" wear their history on their sleeve—or rather display it in their frescoes, antique furnishings, and primo Renaissance palazzo locations

In a country like Italy, where many of the buildings in the historic centers of towns were built well before the 18th century (and even most of the "modern ones" are more than 100 years old), it might seem a bit odd to single out a category of "historic hotels."

But in 1999, a new hotel association in Italy formed called "Residenze d'Epoca," (www.residenzedepoca.it), devoted not only to highlighting accommodations of particular historical interest, but also banding together to preserve and promote Italy's artistic and historic patrimony (when you book at any member hotel, 10% of the proceeds to go promoting historical tourism).

If nothing else, the member hotels are virtually all stunners—castles and abbeys, medieval villages and Renaissance palaces, country villas and elegant townhouses, as well as farmhouses, hamlets, and other historic homes.

Then there's Abitare La Storia (www.abitarelastoria.it)—"To Live History"—another grouping of nearly 30 amazing historic properties all across italy, from castles to medieval abbeys to Renaissance villas.

Another similar group is the Locali Storici d'Italia (www.localistorici.it), a constorium of historic hotels, restaurants, and caffès.

The group also makes it easier for those planning groups or events, highlighting those properties that offer meeting space and those that can arrange to host weddings.

Peruse the members at residenzedepoca.it.

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