Before we dive into the details, could you briefly introduce yourself and share a bit about your family and the names of your accommodations?

My name is Luca Giannini, I am 53 and I am from Bologna. I currently live in Rome with my wife Iolanda and her 17-yrs-old daughter Maria Sofia. Together with Iolanda, my business partner Paolo and our local staff I manage three properties in the South-East of Sicily, all featured on Nice2Stay: Residenza Hortus and Casa Kimiyà in Modica, Casa Sabir in Syracuse.

We would love to share more about you as a person with our clients. Could you tell us more about yourself? For example, your interests, hobbies, work, family, and holidays?

My family has two souls: my father was a civil engineer while my mother worked as a fashion designer and dealer and as a young girl used to travel a lot. Resulting from this blend I became deeply passionate with property search and refurbishment, design and craft, contemporary art, sustainability, travel and hospitality. After taking a degree in environmental engineering from the University of Bologna I moved to Rome where I attended art courses at the RUFA Academy.
After a two-year-life experience in the area of Ragusa I founded the Anime a Sud hospitality project with the purpose of embodying my concept of travel, beauty and connection with the territory. Besides my hospitality business, I am involved in interior design projects and house renovations, and I also work as an artist exhibiting my pieces in Italy and abroad.

When and how did this property come into your life, and what motivated you to make it a part of your life?

So far in my life I have progressively moved to the South: from Bologna, where I inherited the sincere hospitality that my birthplace has always expressed, to Rome, where I had the chance to develop my youth passion for painting and sculpture, and then down to Sicily, where I was caught by its unique light and connection between architecture and landscape. Here I was inspired by the stone towns perched on ridges and hills in astonishing baroque settings and the charming ruins invaded by lush vegetation or almost vanishing in the Mediterranean dazzle.

I have always been very instinctive in seeking the right places. Actually, I would say it was the places that somehow drew me. When I was looking for my first place in Modica, Casa Kimiyà, I was attracted by a humble house hidden in a narrow alley near the Cathedral of San Giorgio and as soon as I entered I got astonished by the view: as an eagle nest it stood overlooking the baroque town and conveyed the feeling of a secluded refuge waiting for someone to renovate it. Years later, in 2012, while walking in the surroundings of Kimiyà, I came across an ancient stone wall with a rusty door beyond which was a secret garden with a ruin abandoned for uncountable time. I was totally bewitched. There was a faded "on sale" sign on that door. After a while I became the owner of what would become Residenza Hortus. Then, in 2017, with my wife I dreamt of finding a new house by the sea to offer our guests the opportunity of planning an itinerary in the Noto Valley: our search focused on Syracuse where the Sicilian identity was rooted in an incredible melting pot of cultures and traditions. Here we found an airy period apartment with wrought iron balconies facing the vibrant street market of the island of Ortigia, the historic heart of the town. This is how Casa Sabir came into existence.

In my vision the Mediterranean has always been a privileged dimension for the expansion of the soul thanks to its archetypes, its light, its materials, its nature and its people. Some places more than others are permeated by the spirit of those who lived in and by the energy of the earth. The Anime a Sud project (literally "Souls towards South") is centered right upon this idea: a thoughtful selection of abodes with a soul, for souls heading for the South.

Can you tell us more about the process of renovating and furnishing your property?

To some extent retrieving a place is an ethical process offering environmental and social results. It's a way to save a memory and return it to a community avoiding the exploitation of new territory and the consumption of natural resources. Some of these places are already in that state of balance in which any further intervention would inevitably disturb them. In other ones, this balance has been improperly altered and, underneath you can perceive a tension to return to their former state. So, the refurbishing process implies a connection with the place and requires time to spend there and listen to so-called "genius loci", in order to catch what that place really needs. I do believe that by staying in poetic homes one can feel more human. My vision of beauty does not properly coincide with luxury. Instead, it has to do with authenticity and harmony. I like imagining a place as a sculpture where to find a balance between the matter and the void, the light and the shadow, the ancient and the new, the anthropic and the natural. My aim has always been to design not-homologated, ecologically sustainable abodes, underlying the traces of time and combining the local materials (stones, natural plasters, iron and wood artisanal furniture, original cement and majolica tiles) with design pieces, tailor-made handicraft and, of course, my artworks. So that our guests will feel like being in Sicily and not everywhere.

What makes your accommodation personally special for you? Are there memories or moments that make it dear to you?

There is a nice story about Residenza Hortus. It was an evening of about ten years ago when I received a warm email message from an unknown person who introduced herself as an elderly nun who was the director of a religious institute in Northern Italy. She explained to me that in the early post-war period she had spent her happy childhood in that place with her family and that she had felt very sad after being informed of its following state of abandonment. She attached black and white photos showing herself and her family standing in the garden. She described to me their habits, the beloved figure of her mother, the plants and the trees of that time, many of which still survive today. I also learned that they used to eat out right in the point where I had chosen to place the large lava stone table for our guests' meals ... this is what I call the power of the genius loci... Since that time we have no longer quit our correspondence and I still look forward to the time when she will be able to come and visit her former house again. Her gratitude for giving new life to the place really moved me and remains one of the deepest satisfactions for what I have done.

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior of your accommodations?

Casa Kimiyà is an early 20th-century house perched on the rocky hillside of upper Modica: its intimately Mediterranean cubic and essential shape, its bright spaces with breathtaking views, along with an eclectic atmosphere made of re-used furniture and original elements, evoke a sense of alchemy (hence the name Kimiyà, coming from the Arabic Al-Kimiyà).

Residenza Hortus is a unique stone retreat resulting from the renovation of a multi-level structure dating back to the mid-16th century, likely belonging to an ancient convent or to the fortifications of the castle of the Counts. Its fenced garden recalls the secluded and contemplative dimension of the "hortus conclusus" of medieval monasteries (hence the name Hortus), where you can regenerate in a private oasis surrounded by citrus trees while being immersed in the historic center. It’s a perfect spot to find inspiration for creative projects or just indulge in meditation and reconnect with your soul. The traces of history beautifully survive in the original arches and in the thick limestone walls, as well as the terraced garden with its original pitch stone steps and in its scenic grotto (to be converted in a retreat area). The earth tones and the natural materials, the lime and clay floors and plasters, the monolithic beds and the vaulted ceilings create a sophisticated and minimalistic atmosphere, embellished by decorated local stones, antique Sicilian bedspreads and bespoke sculptured washbasins.

Casa Sabir is a chic apartment retaining the early 20th century charm, with its authentic decorated cement tiles, the vaulted ceilings and the beautiful walls with colored decors discovered beneath the recent white paints. Its name, Sabir, is borrowed from the ancient language made up of Genoese, Arabic, Sicilian, Turkish, Catalan and Venetian terms, which from the Middle Ages to the 19th century was spoken in the ports and the markets of the Mediterranean region.

Which part of your property do you love the most, and why?

I especially love reading in the shadow of the garden at Hortus in the afternoon, tasting a glass of wine on the rooftop terrace of Kimiyà at sunset or waking up in Casa Sabir in front of the blue of the Ionian Sea and the stalls of the Ortigia market.

What makes the location where your accomodation is located unique and special?

Our homes are located in the historic center and allow you to feel in touch with local life ensuring top privacy at the same time. In the secluded garden of Residenza Hortus you can relax in the heated stone tub, pump yourself with a massage under the pomegranate tree, dine under the stars around the lava stone table or enjoy an aperitif on the terrace gazing at the Cathedral of San Giorgio. Casa Kimiyà, nestled among the intricate urban mosaic of upper Modica, is a secluded getaway with breathtaking views of the roofs and the churches of the baroque town. At noon the genuine aromas of Sicilian recipes prepared from the elderly spread out the open doors along the alleys all around, providing you an authentic full immersion in local life.

Sitting on the balconies of Casa Sabir offers you a privileged viewpoint to capture the lively atmosphere of the counters of fish, fruit and vegetables of the wonderful market of Ortigia, with the typical calls of the vendors, the colors of the spices and the street food aroma: it’s really an unforgettable experience in touch with the true spirit of Sicily.

Are there any sustainable of eco-friendly applications associated with your property that you are proud of?

Since the beginning, we have been strongly committed to sustainability by adopting ecological materials and solutions, implementing environmentally friendly procedures, and promoting responsible practices for conscious stays. In particular, we are proud of the following initiatives:

• Reconstruction of a ruined building using local materials
• Use of bio-architecture techniques, including clay floors, lime plasters, ecological microcement and resins, natural paints, and cork roof insulation
• Collaboration with local artisans to create unique, handcrafted pieces and furnishings
• Green energy supply in compliance with regulations for historic centres, including the purchase of certified renewable electricity and discreetly integrated solar thermal panels
• Installation of energy-efficient internal and external LED lighting
• Zero-plastic approach, with refillable, eco-label certified natural soaps and shampoos
• Use of ecological cleaning products
• Welcome pack featuring local products selected from artisanal shops and fair-trade producers

What motivated or inspired you to rend your property to guests?

Converting a private place to hospitality is a way to share emotions that otherwise would remain limited to ourselves. Our accommodations aim at evoking the deep emotions I felt during my Sicilian life experience and reveal my idea of well-being and balance.

Can you paint a vivid picture of the overall experience someone can expect when staying at your property?

Our houses are authentic Mediterranean abodes created to nourish the soul and are the ideal destinations for mindful travelers loving art, heritage, food & wine. As a wine lover myself I personally select small organic and natural Sicilian vineyards for the wine cellars of our properties. Our guests can also book special services and activities such as historic tours with art historians and archeologists, massages, private meals with our chef and cooking classes, winery tours, boat trips and natural excursions. Every property is always intended for exclusive use, we love welcoming our guests in person and taking care of them. They have the chance to live one-of-a-kind experiences in a home away from home.

In what ways does your property stand out from others? What unique features or characteristics make it one-of-a-kind experience for guests?

The unique location of our properties is the highlight of their attractiveness, along with their bespoke architecture design combining contemporary style, art touches and period details. They allow our guests to stay immersed in the historic center and also explore the Noto Valley where history, sea, nature and local traditions magically match together.

Can you share the best compliment you've received from a guest? 

Residenza Hortus, Sally (USA)
Book this exceptional property – now!!! The home is an architectural delight, and the multi- level outdoor garden space (at the base of the Cathedral, and complete with mature orange and lemon trees) is breathtaking. All of the amenities were of the absolute highest quality: kitchen, light fixtures, beds, linens, pillows, bathrooms, towels. My husband and I travel extensively, and this is the most remarkable property at which we’ve ever stayed. I recommend you book a dinner with the private chef. I have a great picture of my three-year-old granddaughter standing on a stool at the kitchen counter, helping prepare locally-caught squid. It doesn’t get any better than that. Lorenzo (our main contact while at the property) was very helpful to us throughout our stay. He was gracious in getting us settled on our first night, and attentive to everything we needed. He made us feel well looked after. Finally, Modica itself is an historical and beautiful wonder. So much to explore; great food; wonderful people. Thank you, Luca, for a magical vacation.

Casa Sabir, Daria (Poland)
Unforgettable experience... The most beautiful, artistic place full of old times spirit, brilliant design and sophisticated details. Luca is the complete artist and that is how he creates his world. Good to enter it even for a while.

Do you have any recommendations for guests to fully enjoy their holiday? Your valuable tips will be featured on your accommodation's page! 

Time today is the true luxury. That’s why we encourage our guests to slow down and explore the surroundings with an open minded attitude that comes from having everything not already scheduled. We suggest not only to visit, but to read, cook or just unwind waiting for sunset with a glass of wine. Whether they get lost in the alleys of Modica following the scent of jasmine or wander about the Spanish walls in the salty air of Ortigia, it’s wonderful to forget maps and guides for a moment, to spend some time inside an old artisan atelier, to stroll around the market stalls and learning which fishes can be caught in that season, to hike in off season across the coastal dunes or the vineyards in the countryside. That’s a great way to connect with the territory and its people and to turn a holiday into a journey to the South.

Here are some itinerary tips:

The Unesco Baroque and the setting of the "Inspector Montalbano" TV series

Enjoy wonderful views of the baroque palaces and the houses of Modica huddled together like in a kasbah while strolling the alleys and staircases from the majestic Cathedral of San Giorgio down to the Cathedral of San Pietro. Stop at Dolceria Bonajuto chocolate atelier to discover the secrets of the renowned chocolate of Modica. Drive to Scicli and go up at sunset to the scenic Church of San Matteo overlooking the town. Have a night walk in Ragusa Ibla from the Iblei gardens to the Cathedral of San Giorgio and relive the fascination of the 19th-century Sicilian noble class in the Donnafugata Castle with its sumptuous interiors and its labyrinth garden. Follow the footsteps of the popular Inspector Montalbano to Punta Secca with his picturesque beachfront house near the lighthouse.

Along the South coast, amidst seaside villages, natural reserves and “tonnare”

Live the Sicilian-Arabic charm of the fishing village of Marzamemi with the stone square surrounded by fishermen's tiny houses and traditional warehouses where to buy tuna fish products. Hike in the Vendicari Natural Reserve, contemplate the solitary ruins of the old tuna fish factory and swim in the gorgeous beaches of Cala Mosche and Eloro. Make a stop in Donnalucata with its ancient elegant villas overlooking the sea and reach the fishing village of Sampieri with its small

port and the wide sandy beach where the painter Guccione walked together with other artists of the so-called group of Scicli. Taste an exquisite sea menu in Scoglitti and enjoy the colorful boats crowded in the port, the octagonal lighthouse and the small fish market.

From the harmonious Iblean countryside to the most hidden corners of the Noto Valley

Drive through the beautiful countryside in the surroundings of Modica, with its texture of dry stone walls and the imposing “masserie” surrounded by secular carob trees and olive groves. Visit an oil mill in Frigintini to taste the excellent “DOP Monti Iblei” extra virgin olive oil, or stop in a winery near Vittoria to try Nero d'Avola and Cerasuolo wines. Trek in the wild necropolis of Pantalica, discover the spiritual atmosphere of the hermitage of San Corrado near Noto and wander about the Byzantine ruins of ancient Noto.

On the footsteps of the Greeks and the Romans

Enjoy a private visit to the stunning archaeological park of Neapolis in Syracuse, with its "Latomie" caves invaded by citrus trees and the astonishing Greek theater carved in the rock. Discover the secluded “Akrai” in Palazzo Acreide, the gorgeous mosaics of the Roman Villa of Tellaro and the remote archaeological area of Kamarina stretching out to the sea.

Cultural events and folk traditions

Attend the crazy Easter celebrations and the local festivals in honor of the Patron Saints (San Giorgio in Modica at the end of April, San Paolo in Palazzolo Acreide at the end of June, Santa Lucia in Syracuse in mid-December). Do not miss the classical plays held in the ancient theater of Syracuse every sunset between May and June. At Christmas time discover the living nativity scene of Cava d'Ispica housed in a scenic setting of caves, stone yards and terraced gardens.