The former 16th Century Palazzo in Lucca transformed into a luxury hotel

 

 

One-of-a-kind hotels in Italy: Autograph Collection Hotels Welcomes Tuscan Royalty Grand Universe Lucca.

The Grand Universe Lucca is the only luxury hotel in the historic center of the city, focus on respecting the environment.

Known as the city of a hundred and one churches, Lucca is set in the heart of Tuscany, Italy at the foot of the Apuan Alps and less than half an hour drive from the wonderful Versilia coast. Overlooking two of the most beautiful piazzas in Lucca, the hotel’s location is perfect for discovering the stunning city. Just steps away are masterpieces of Medieval and Renaissance architecture including the Chiesa dei Santi Giovanni e Reparata, historic Teatro del Giglio, and the bustling landmark Piazza Napoleone.

In the heart of Tuscany: Grand Universe Lucca Palazzo transformed into a Autograph Collection Hotel, a 55-guestroom boutique hotel, complete with nine unique suites.

Previously a Palazzo of the Paoli family during the Renaissance, the site was originally transformed into a unique hotel in 1857, which became famous for hosting poets, philosophers and artists from around the world. Now, the hotel opens its doors to a new generation after a multi-million-pound renovation led by Archea Associati, restoring the hotel to its ancient glowing splendour. The hotel’s past lives on in the present, with features including the existing wall foundations dating back to Roman times and the ancient glassblower’s fountain remnants in the cellar.

“Grand Universe Lucca will be a historical beacon blending different eras of history,” said Georges Midleje, Regional Managing Director for Shaner Properties in Italy. “Our unique location in the magical city of Lucca offers a unique perspective on Tuscany’s rich historic and culinary cultures.”

Silk and velvet textiles in earthy shades of grape red, pine green and Tuscan sun yellow, reflecting the city’s famous silk production heritage, meet modern wooden surfaces with gold detailing. Delicate wall tapestries pay reverence to the region’s vineyards, whilst refined, glass pendant lights pay homage to the property’s glassblowing history. Music, one of the hotel’s inherent pillars, is reflected in the name of each room category, from the ‘Piccolo Room’ to the ‘Puccini Suite’ after opera composer Giacomo Puccini, who was born in Lucca and a frequent visitor of the property.

In addition to showcasing the historic locale through the hotel’s interiors, Grand Universe Lucca offers a traditional Italian restaurant, Legacy, serving local cuisine accompanied by fine wines. At the rooftop bar, Sommitá, guests can enjoy a digestivo named after the great personalities of the city along with panoramic views of Cattedrale di San Martino and beyond.

On joining Autograph Collection Hotels, Grand Universe Lucca will introduce several signature offerings from private cocktail classes with the hotel’s head mixologist, to wine tastings of some of Tuscany’s most famous grapes. For a truly unique experience, guests can visit the Symphony Lounge to unlock their own theme song with the ‘Prelude of Existence’ experience. Here the hotels’ classical composer will create a personalized Prelude, crafted to reflect the guest’s personality.