Casino Messere
In the heart of the eighteenth century a silent but important change was to transform the life of the aristocracy. The countryside, once considered dangerous and wild, began to take on new charm and became a symbol of social prestige. In this context, from late spring to autumn, the wealthier families began to retire to their country residences, along with their servants. This soon became a status symbol and this summer vacation with its slow rhythm and the beauty of the countryside gave the opportunity to show off ones social prestige, the country residence becoming a direct reflection of the family wealth. Here, the “casino” came into being, a seasonal residence not only destined for rural activity but also free time activities. The “casino” was architecturally different from rural buildings and became a tangible sign of change.
In the countryside of Giovinazzo this new fashion became popular. One of these residences, “Casino Messere”, with its built-in look-out tower, is emblematic of that period. It was originally part of a defensive structure and underwent renovation and extension work from 1831 onwards when the property passed to the Messere family. The former military fortress was gradually transformed into a country residence, a place of rest and leisure for the family. Before that, the house belonged to the noble De Martinis family from Calabria, whose family crest once adorned the entrance way, conseqently substituted by the Messere family crest.
Laid out around a central courtyard with a well and a deep cistern, Casino Messere still has its ancient tower, a wide portico and a walkway which connects the residence with the ancient chapel, situated near the road. The chapel is dedicated to St. Francis of Paola which suggests it may once have been a convent. Today Casino Messere is no longer an aristocratic retreat and has become a hotel but its walls still tell the story of changing customs, of how the countryside became a symbol of power for a family who transformed a fortress into an oasis of peace and beauty.
