Palazzo d’Ayala Valva – a noble residence in the ancient heart of Taranto

History and description

Located in the heart of Taranto’s Old Town (Borgo Antico), Palazzo d’Ayala Valva dates back to the 18th century and was originally built by the Marrese family, one of the city’s most prominent noble houses. Among the most imposing buildings of the historic center, it later passed to the noble d’Ayala Valva family following the marriage of Francesca Antonia Marrese to a member of the Spanish‑origin family, who inherited the estate and promoted a significant renovation. The palace features a majestic façade spread over three main levels, accompanied by three underground levels, including a hypogeum directly connected to the Marrese bastion. Inside, it once housed more than thirty rooms decorated with frescoes, majolica floors, wooden ceilings, and gilded stuccoes. Particularly renowned were the Hall of Mirrors, the Porcelain Room, and the monumental marble staircase topped with a statue. In the 19th century, the palace became a symbol of prestige for the d’Ayala family, who introduced neoclassical furnishings and decorations. However, during the 20th century, it fell into a long period of abandonment. Since 1982, it has been owned by the Municipality of Taranto and, starting in 2023, has been the focus of a major restoration and conversion project into a tourist‑hotel facility, with an investment of over €7 million.

Curiosities

The palace is famous for the legend of the “Lady of the Bastion”, a young aristocrat who, according to popular tales, threw herself into the Mar Piccolo after being forced into an unwanted marriage. It is said that her ghostly figure still appears in the underground chambers on full‑moon nights.

Access

Currently closed to the public for restoration works, the palace will be open again once the interventions are completed. Plans include a permanent exhibition route inside the restored rooms and access to the hypogeum.

How to reach it

Palazzo d’Ayala Valva is located on Via Duomo, in the heart of Taranto’s Old Town. It is easily reachable on foot from the Ponte Girevole or the Aragonese Castle, as well as by several bus lines stopping nearby. The most convenient parking areas are located around Piazza Castello.

Between history, mystery, and nobility, Palazzo d’Ayala Valva is a fascinating stop in the most ancient heart of Taranto.

Photo credits: AntonioCaso93 (Wikipedia) - Licensed by CC 4.0