I’m Italo/American, bilingual, born in the U.S., but spent most of my life in Italy. I’m the owner of Palazzo Ciannelli a XVIII century building which once was the summer residence of my great-great grandparents Aloyisia & Nathaniel Nesbitt and my great grandparents Catherine & Nicola Ciannelli.
Ever since I was a child, I used to spend my summer holidays in Lacco Ameno and I remember how fascinated I was by the building with its antique furniture, the well in the kitchen from which water was drawn with a bucket, the wine cellars, the garden and the vineyard.
Sadly, the building was neglected for many years, but when I was in my early twenties I decided to begin restoring it. For the past thirty years I have been dedicating my time and resources to bringing my family’s home back to life. It has been very challenging and at times frustrating, but bit by bit the results have been rewarding. I felt I owed it to my family and to the building itself as it remains one of the few historic buildings in Lacco Ameno. I wouldn’t have succeded in doing all this if I hadn’t a group of local contractors, craftsmen and professionals who advised me and supported me along the way. I am very grateful to them.
Giuseppe Garibaldi, Italy’s most renowned general considered Italy’s “father of the fatherland” was a guest here. We still have the armchair in which he sat!
My grandfather, Eduardo Ciannelli was born in this building and immigrated as a young man to the U.S.A. where he became a well-known movie actor in Hollywood. For movie lovers who wish more information please click on the following links:
My dream which now is finally taking shape in these past years, is to welcome guests who are interested in discovering the island of Ischia in its multiple aspects, from the seaside to Mount Epomeo, its history, the traditions, its miraculous thermal waters and outstanding cuisine.
Palazzo Ciannelli offers two comfortable, fully equipped flats in the centre of Lacco Ameno. The seafront is a few steps from the building as are the shops, supermarket, chemist, bars and restaurants. The Negombo Thermal Gardens , situated in the dazzling San Montano cove, is 1.3 km from the house 10 / 15’ on foot.
If you wish to spend a day in Capri or Amalfi/Sorrento /Positano, the motor boat “Captain Morgan” picks you up and drops you off conveniently at the pier near home.
A car isn’t necessary to visit the island as bus stops are conveniently located near the building. However, should you decide to come by car a private parking space is available upon request.
The lush garden with its lemon grove will welcome you after a day at the beach or after touring the island.
Another passion of mine is my vegetable garden which I cultivate with the help of Rino, the gardner. In addition to our marvelous lemons and oranges, during summer our garden gives us juicy tomatoes, eggplants, zucchini and string-beans- all organically grown.
Ah, I was forgetting to mention my faithful companion, Pippo, our Dachshund. He will welcome you as well!
I am always available to give my guests suggestions on what to see, where to eat the best fish, or typical island cuisine. For those who love trekking there are some great paths that lead you to some breathtaking views.
My greatest desire is that my guests have a great time, feel at home and wish to come back!
Palazzo Ciannelli
Via Cristoforo Colombo 54
80076 Lacco Ameno (NA)
