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In the countryside of Piacenza, Italy, between Parma and Modena sits an ancient castle-manor which has been lovingly turned into a hotel for those seeking a quiet, art-centric retreat in the country. Locanda Re Guerriero is special to say the least. Arriving to its cypress-lined drive and seeing its expansive lawns stretching out to empty fields provides a moment of solace. But, this is not a typical country hotel. The lawns are dotted with beautiful sculptures in both traditional and modern art forms. The stables and other buildings have been converted to hotel rooms and filled to the brim with both local and international art. All of this, layered with friendly and attentive Italian service from the staff, makes for an incredible stay.
Behind the hotel sits another private manor which has also been restored by the hotel’s owner. It stands as a significant example of what can happen when traditional Italian renaissance architecture mixes with modern art from across the world. In fact, the cellar of the manor is filled with countless replicas of the famous terra-cotta warriors found in China. The building Functions as an event space and private home for the hotel’s owner. This unique and somewhat eerie place can be rented as the backdrop for your next event.
Legend has it that the count who owned the manor hundreds of years ago was murdered in his room for growing too close to one of his staff member’s wives. But, don’t worry, there was no sign of hauntings by myself or the group I was traveling with. Instead, we experienced nothing but spacious rooms with original details and a home-like atmosphere with a delicious breakfast in the morning. It was all so very magical.
