Location: Casino Mattia is located in the countryside just two kilometres from the village of Spongano, midway between Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca. The property is about 8 km from the Adriatic Sea.
House: The original 19th centuary structure has been tastefully enlarged and restored, retaining its local architectural tradition, culture and, above all, its evocative atmosphere. Passing through the quaint town of Spongano one arrives at a tall, foliage-covered, ancient stone wall. Through the wall’s gate is a typical Salentino courtyard. The house has two sections divided by an arched passage which leads to the back terraces and open fields where Mediterranean plants, wildflowers and olive trees grow.
The first section, as the entire house, has beautiful stone floors. A simple, equipped kitchen opens onto the back terrace where one can dine in the shade of a large fig tree. Behind the kitchen is a small dining room (opens onto entrance courtyard), a bedroom with a lovely French bed (small double) with full bathroom/tub. The master bedroom (accessed by an exterior staircase) has a chimney and en-suite bathroom/tub. On either side of the room are two small terraces, one with shower. There is a magnificent view over the countryside and the olive groves.
The second section of the house is independent from the first one. All rooms have access to the outdoor terrace. There are three double bedrooms, each has a walk-in closet and an en-suite bathroom/shower. There is a comfortable living room with an open fireplace and a small music room in which one can relax and read.
History: The present owner bought this country house from a direct descendent of Baron Mattia Bacile di Castiglione who, after having led a very rich and interesting life, secluded himself from the rest of the world in this retreat.  He was a very special and religous man, loved nature and beautiful things. A Bacile descendant has told me once that Baron Mattia made a trip by donkey to Rome to be received in the Vatican and returned home with a special grandfather clock strapped to its back. The strokes of this clock, rich of astrological signs, where the only companionship throughout the rest of his life .Today, the property’s original chapel has been restored and expanded by its present owner.
Personal note: I believe that guests of Casino Mattia will experience the genuine and simple southern Italian lifestyle in one of the most naturally beautiful areas of Salento. Moreover, it is the ideal solution when combined with La Cappella di Don Mattia for hosting multiple families or large groups.