Il Convento di Santa Maria di Constantinopoli

Our trip to the Convento was extraordinary; the guests were completely awestruck by the unique beauty that surrounded them. It was a very special trip, and we were so pleased to have Athena join us for yoga and a few meals. Thank you for all you did to make our time there seamless. October 2019

It was an absolutely unique experience .. Not only a marvelous place to stay ,... The most kindly and helpful host :) made our stay even better ..

We had a marvellous time at Il Convento - it is, indeed, a special place. Athena and Pierluigi were marvellous hosts. The gardens, I think, are looking more and more beautiful as each year goes by. We were in the Mexican room for a week and that was bliss. I can't praise everything too much and we do intend to return. We also had a car this time and did much exploring around the area - the location is actually next to so many beautiful places to see that somehow manage to avoid being too busy even in the middle of summer. Please pass on our thanks to Athena and wish her well.

We had the most fantastic time at Il Convento. Its absolutely the most beautiful place we ever stayed. Food and service was great. Rooms were lovely. Everything was so inspiring. We will definitely return!

Il Convento is never far from my mind! We stayed with friends who are very dear to us and who we see often. There have been so many times when we talk about the unique experience of Il Convento; the breathtaking beauty of its landscape and art; the incredibly delicious food prepared and cooked by Pier luigi and his mother; the interesting guests who gathered for morning conversation, coffee and a beautiful breakfast spread; and of course Athena, who was always so warm and welcoming. It was magnificent and we plan on booking the whole place out with the same friends and more in the future! Can’t wait to go back. July 2019

My stay at Il Convento was the highlight of my summer. Such a special place. I was impressed with the attention to detail not only in the design, carefully curated objects but in the service with the most delicious home cooked meals, and hospitality. Words can't describe how incredible my stay was. Am so fortunate to have been able to experience it and grateful to Athena, Pierluigi and entire staff for making my stay so memorable. I am looking forward to my return!!!

It was fantastic. Athena was a wonderful host and it’s an incredible experience. Wish we could move in :)

Our stay at the Convento was awesome, thanks so much. What an incredible experience! Such an exceptional and beautiful property and the service was impeccable ......... it was really like being at one's own holiday home. We were also truly spoilt by the fact that we were the only guests for the first four nights. I was very happy about the opportunity to meet Athena, such a privilege! I am already saving for the next time ......... :-))

Based on articles and photos that I had seen, staying at IL Convento was at the top of my list...therefore, my expectations were very high...the reality exceeded my very high expectations...IL Convento, the staff, the meals, the suite were exceptional...the collections are extraordinary...the grounds were exceedingly beautiful...the special treat was connecting with Lady Athena...more raving is possible...adored the stay immensely!!! May 2019

Our stay at Il Convento was the highlight of our summer. Every single moment of the experience was a joy. The convent itself - its colours, textures, shapes and forms - the artwork - the pieces collected with such obvious joy and curiosity - and the light that fell upon all those pieces and made it all feel like one was part of a theatrical tableaux - a real life one. As a photographer I was inspired - but not only that - as a human being it was such a nurturing experience. I found Athena to be the most delightful host - I could have stayed for weeks chatting with her. She could not have been more welcoming and made the convent instantly feel like home. Our dining experiences were unreal - lunch in a little hidden away spot in a garden of floral abundance, candlelit dinner in a setting that would rival the balcony scene in Romeo & Juliet and a picnic packed for us to bring to an off the beaten track little gem of a beach recommended by Athena. Apologies for the ridiculous amount of superlatives in this message - but honestly, how can one spend time in such a special place and not run out of them - there aren't enough words. Many thanks for making our travel plans so easy. I look forward to revisiting again and again.

Our stay at the Convento was just wonderful! We enjoyed a lot! No comments to be made!

We absolutely loved our stay at the Convento and haven't stopped raving about it since we left! We travel a great deal, but both agreed that it was one of the best travel experiences of our lives. We would love to get back there some time in the not too distant future so I am sure I will be in touch again.

For me it is very easy to write commentary re. Il Convento. It has held a special place in my memory since the first time I stayed 11 years ago. The environment within the walls is so very special, it is peaceful and relaxing as is the location in the lovely Salento Campania. To be a short stroll through the olive groves from one one of the most beautiful coves in the world and to swim every day in the warm waters of the Adriatic was magical. A well deserve rest from a hectic existence. Being with Athena again after such a long absence was an incredible experience. She is a marvelous host and now friend. Her staff are friendly and accommodating, nothing was too much to request. The food and wine, fresh and wonderful every night. Her collection of guests were interesting and the conversations around the pool, lively…..Always! We made new friends, who we stay in touch with…… and that is the magic of Athena……. connecting people. Il Convento is like no other place…Unique, uncomplicated, bursting with sophistication. My partner had never been to Puglia before and he fell for the rugged beauty. We are in process of buying a wonderful home in the nearby town of Tricase. Needless to say we are very excited to be making Salento our future home and seeing Athena more often.

We absolutely loved it there, everything was perfect. I literally cannot think of anything I would change. I sincerely hope we will be back. I joke with Sara that I’d like to live there. If she ever wants to sell........

Everything was wonderful at both properties (also stayed at Canne Bianche Beach Hotel & Spa). Both resorts were lovely, the information and help we received from Essential Italy was great. We will highly recommend your services, and will use you in the duties. Thank you so much for helping to make our vacation so special.

We so enjoyed the food at the Convento that we did not eat out at all anywhere else during our 3 days there. Absolutely superb. The swimming pool was one of the nicest we have ever used and the place was like a fantastic film set. Everyone was so delightful. Be prepared to be amazed!

We absolutely loved il Convento and Athena – we made some lovely new friends the food was delicious. It was raw rustic stylish and extraordinary. We will be encouraging all our friends to go.