Italy's #1 castles and historic houses collection

The "Certificate of Quality of Residenze d'Epoca has been awarded annually since 1999 only to the villas, castles and historic houses that have been able to demonstrate that they meet the necessary requirements for holding the delicate role of first-class Italian hospitality ambassador.

3 Golden Crowns: IMPECCABLE HISTORIC HOUSE

150 Quality Controls passed

A unique and refined diamond that stands out for its constant search for perfection and the capability of transmitting unaltered the spirit and philosophy of excellence of Residenze d'Epoca. An obsessive attention to detail, timeless charm, standards of quality and impeccable hospitality elevate this masterpiece of virtue to the rank of absolute first choice.

2 Golden Crowns: EXCELLENT HISTORIC HOUSE

80 Quality Controls passed

A rare and precious gem where beauty, intimacy and exclusivity blend with a mission: to offer top services and superior experiences. An alchemy that transforms it into a landmark for the most refined palates, to whom it gives the privilege of feeling welcomed as “jewels resting on the pillow of hospitality”.

1 Golden Crown: HIGH QUALITY HISTORIC HOUSE

50 Quality Controls passed

A pearl of undisputed value capable of distinguishing itself for passion, dedication and a strong character. The historical, artistic and cultural value, combined with a wise balance between personality and first-class quality standards, make it stand out at the top of the preferences of those who always strive for the best.

1 Silver Crown: HISTORICAL RESIDENCE OF CHARACTER

Successful in the Preliminary Assessment of Suitability, annual verification

A precious piece whose identity emerges in the care of the rooms, in the authentic charm, in the level of services always up to expectations. It deserves a special place in the list of favourite choices.

In order to ensure the high standards required, the selection criteria adopted by the Certification Commission are very strict and also include:

• more than 163.600 Club Members' suggestions and recommendations
• scores obtained during anonymous Quality Control inspections
• renovations quality
• presence of elements of historical, artistic and cultural relevance
• rooms' intimacy and exclusivity
• notoriety, online reviews, references from certified partners
• advertisement and information pack (website, brochures, catalogues, etc...)
• reception service and customization level

The project of Residenze d'Epoca was created to contribute to the valorization of Italian heritage, which, according to UNESCO, constitutes more than half of the world's historical artistic and cultural heritage.

A contribution equivalent to 10% of each Club Member's booking rate is allocated by Residenze d'Epoca to the "Fund for the promotion of historical tourism" which has been established in 1999 with the aim of:

• encouraging tourism in historical residences
• enhancing art and culture of historic places
• supporting the protection and enhancement of Italian historical heritage
• running information and awareness campaigns
• providing free consulting services during preservation and renovations of historic buildings
• encouraging institutions to pay more attention to the resources of our country

The philosophy of Residenze d'Epoca is to encourage the creation and consolidation of that special relationship that binds both historic houses' owners and operators to their guests, renewing a culture of hospitality that is often passed on from one generation to the next.

For this reason all the information (ex. official website, telephone, email) needed for coming into direct contact, at no cost and without intermediaries, with Italy's most fascinating historic houses can be found in our fact sheets.

Renaissance villas, castles and fortresses, ancient buildings, farms, farmhouses and medieval villages: live close to the history or plan an enchanting event in historical residences which have preserved through the centuries the Italian traditions, art and culture.