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Palazzo Merletti – A timeless Italian masterpiece of noble grandeur
Palazzo Merletti, formerly known as Palazzo Donati, is a 14th-century palace in the heart of the Marche region, where history and art meet. Located in the main square of the beautiful village of Mercatello sul Metauro, nestled among the green hills of Montefeltro, it is a true jewel of Italian heritage. When you walk through its ancient doors, you feel as if you have stepped back in time and immersed yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the Renaissance. A long, picturesque avenue from the majestic entrance leads to a secret internal garden, an oasis of tranquillity rich in blooming flowers, fruit trees and centuries-old leaves. Here, in the shade of ancient trees, you can truly feel the echo of history in every stone.
Historical splendour and architectural genius: the legendary past of Palazzo Merletti is reflected in its very architecture. The origins of the building date back to the Middle Ages, but it reached its peak during the Renaissance, with its elegant dimensions and well-preserved antique details. The interior consists of two separate wings, which can be discovered by climbing a beautiful stone staircase polished by time. In the left wing, you are welcomed by an elegant hall decorated with original Renaissance motifs: high ceilings decorated with hand-painted frescoes and walls that have witnessed five hundred years of Italian history. In contrast, the right wing extends over two large floors of luxury living spaces that perfectly combine historical charm and modern comfort. Throughout the building, arched doorways, decorated cornices and original carved doors recall the noble origins of the residence, while sunlight filters through tall windows with curtains overlooking the town square and the building's private gardens. Every inch of this approximately 1,600-square-metre property has been carefully maintained and restored in keeping with its historical heritage.
Generations of careful stewardship, including recent and meticulous restoration, have preserved the architectural integrity of the building and its priceless artistic features. From its solid medieval foundations to the Renaissance frescoes and fireplaces that adorn its rooms, the Palazzo Merletti exudes an authentic old-world elegance rarely found outside of Italy's most famous historic properties. Modern interventions have been discreet and respectful: basic amenities have been carefully updated, ensuring 21st-century comforts (such as air conditioning, security and high-speed connectivity) without detracting from the building's ancient character. The result is a harmonious blend of past and present: a place where you can stroll by candlelight on antique terracotta and marble floors and, a moment later, enjoy state-of-the-art amenities, all in absolute comfort.
Refined interiors and modern comforts: Palazzo Merletti offers a wide range of luxurious and intimate spaces, providing an unparalleled backdrop for luxury living, leisure or bespoke commercial ventures. The main floor and reception areas are truly cinematic: think elegant salons and halls with high ceilings, where frescoes and antique artwork catch the eye at every turn. These majestic rooms can host prestigious meetings under the glow of antique chandeliers, or serve as elegant exhibition halls or meeting rooms for the business owner. Moving through the palace, you will discover more relaxing but no less charming spaces: comfortable reading rooms with fireplaces, studies filled with books and private salons that invite moments of quiet contemplation.
Despite its historic atmosphere, the mansion is fully equipped for modern living. In the right wing, there is not just one kitchen, but two: a modern kitchen with high-quality appliances and a traditional kitchen with a large antique fireplace and exposed beams, perfect for authentic Italian culinary experiences. This double kitchen is perfect for hosting large events or accommodating a professional catering service, as well as for everyday family use. Adjacent to these kitchens is a formal dining room that can easily accommodate a large dinner party in an atmosphere of antique splendour, as well as a series of more formal breakfast rooms and sitting areas for informal gatherings. A dedicated laundry room and storage room are discreetly tucked away, ensuring functionality without compromising the elegance of the palace.
The accommodations are equally impressive. Palazzo Merletti features six luxurious double suites, each with its own unique character and tranquil views. These spacious rooms, some with walls decorated with pastel-coloured frescoes, others with exposed beams or antique terracotta floors, offer luxurious private retreats for residents and guests. Many bedrooms have modern en-suite bathrooms, stylishly refurbished to spa standards, with marble finishes and high-quality fittings for comfort and pleasure. The high ceilings, large windows and antique details of the bedrooms give the feeling of sleeping in a noble palace, while the renovated bathrooms and heating systems (including central heating throughout the right wing) ensure comfort throughout the year. Whether as a family home or a boutique accommodation facility, the palace's bedrooms offer comfort and relaxation immersed in the charm of history.
Gardens, terraces and atmosphere: it is rare for a townhouse in the city centre to offer large private outdoor spaces, but Palazzo Merletti offers this luxury. The internal garden, accessible through the large corridor, is a true hidden paradise. Fragrant roses climb the ancient stone walls and the vine-covered terrace offers a shaded area to sit in on summer evenings. Here you can dine al fresco under the pergola, host a cocktail party overlooking the citrus trees and fountain, or simply listen to the sound of water flowing from an ancient stone well as the scent of jasmine fills the evening air. This enclosed garden and its cove
