The historic San Domenico Palace hotel in Taormina is set to reopen as a luxurious Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts property.

Making its debut in summer 2021, the newly rebranded San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel will pair the hotel’s timeless charm with updated facilities and the luxury hospitality company’s impeccable service standards.

A new era for the hotel

Upon reopening, Sicily’s iconic property perched above the Ionian Sea near Mount Etna will be known as San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel.

“This is truly a jewel in our crown of historic properties throughout the Mediterranean region and the perfect complement to our beloved Four Seasons hotels in Milan and Florence,” said Simon Casson, president of hotel operations in Europe, Middle East and Africa at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “San Domenico Palace is a legend in European hospitality and it is our honour to welcome the hotel into our portfolio on the occasion of its 125th anniversary.”

“We are delighted to reopen in summer, Taormina’s high season, so that we can welcome our guests for a uniquely Sicilian holiday experience,” added general manager Lorenzo Maraviglia, who has just returned to his homeland from his most recent Four Seasons role in Dubai.

“Taormina’s landmarks are at our doorstep and the ancient Greek Theatre is a stroll away as are countless other historic sites to discover, endless countryside for scenic hikes and the siren call of Isola Bella and the Grotta Azzura – part of an exclusive yacht excursion that is just one of the bespoke experiences we are planning for our guests.”

In his new role, Maraviglia will lead a team dedicated to writing a new chapter for San Domenico Palace.

History and a taste of Sicily

This impressive hotel was originally built on the site of a 14th-century convent. It first opened in 1896 with the addition of a new building, which is now the hotel’s Grand Hotel Wing, adjacent to a conversion of former quarters in the Ancient Convent Wing. Over subsequent years, it became a highlight of the Grand Tour favoured by royalty, creatives and Hollywood stars.

Now the hotel, which boasts lush sea-facing Italian gardens, combines its antiquities with modern facilities and contemporary art. The property houses 111 guestrooms and suites, some of which come with terraces and plunge pools, along with a spa, gym and infinity pool terrace.

Etna’s terroir is the inspiration for the culinary team led by Sicilian executive chef Massimo Mantarro and award-winning restaurant Principe Cerami. Here, and at additional F&B venues such as poolside restaurant Anciovi and all-day dining venue Rosso, this gastronomic experience is enhanced with Sicilian wines.

Meanwhile, both corporate and social events can be hosted in the hotel’s 1,700 sq m event space.

In Italy, the hotel will join existing Four Seasons properties in Milan and Florence. The group also recently announced plans to launch a new Italian location in Puglia.

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