Apulia, Lecce, Galatina, Italy

PUGLIA – SALENTO – GALATINA


In the heart of Salento, nestled in the quiet Galatina countryside and surrounded by the lush greenery of centuries-old trees and lush plants, stands Masseria "Grotti," an authentic historical monument dating back to the 9th century, now for sale. It is a rare and precious example of rural architecture, preserving the charm and atmosphere of times gone by.
The property extends over approximately 31,800 square meters, bordered by ancient dry stone walls and dotted with Mediterranean vegetation. It houses a valuable architectural and spiritual heritage: the Church of the Madonna della Grotta, a semi-subterranean Byzantine crypt, a convent section, and a 19th-century farmhouse built adjacent to the original structure, which together form a complex of inestimable historical interest.
The masseria owes its name to the "Grutti," shelters carved into the rock by Byzantine monks fleeing persecution in the early 18th century. It was in this area, still known today as "Li Grutti," that they found refuge and transformed a rocky outcrop into a crypt, later dedicated to the Madonna della Grotta.
The small church, approximately 207 square meters, is divided into three bays with a gabled roof and houses valuable frescoes dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. A wide staircase leads to the evocative semi-subterranean crypt, which contains a small side altar and, on the back wall, the main altar: a place of profound spirituality and memory.
Adjacent to the church is the ancient convent area, consisting of approximately six rooms dating back to the 12th century, overlooking a peaceful internal garden of approximately 180 square meters. Next to it stands the 19th-century farmhouse, with six star-vaulted rooms, along with large spaces originally used as stables and agricultural storage.
In the 1970s, a large workshop was built next to the farmhouse, originally used as a marble factory and later converted into a tool shed.
Masseria Grotti represents a unique, authentic heritage of devotion, art, and rural architecture. It lends itself magnificently to restoration and enhancement projects, becoming a prestigious hospitality facility, an exclusive event venue, a spa immersed in nature, or a charming private residence. Thanks to its layout, it can also host exhibitions, conferences, and cultural activities, establishing itself as a multifunctional center capable of combining history, beauty, and innovation.
The property is located just a short distance from the splendid historic center of Galatina, one of the most charming towns in Salento, famous for its baroque churches, elegant squares, shops, restaurants, and vibrant cultural life.
Well-connected, it is only 25 km from Lecce, 30 km from Gallipoli and 70 km from Brindisi Airport.