Palazzo Parisio: A Glimpse into Maltese Aristocracy

Palazzo Parisio, located in the heart of Naxxar, Malta, is a testament to the island's rich history and cultural fusion. Originally a hunting lodge built in 1733 by Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena, it was acquired by the Marquis Giuseppe Scicluna in 1898, who envisioned transforming it into a glorious winter palace. The Marquis commissioned Italian architects, sculptors, and painters, led by Carlo Sada, to create an Art Nouveau mansion with a Sicilian Baroque interior and Pompeiian art. Work began in 1900, and by 1906, the palace was largely complete, showcasing gilded ceilings and lavishly decorated rooms. Today, Palazzo Parisio is owned by the Marquis's heirs, Baroness Christiane Ramsay Scicluna and her daughter Justine, who welcome visitors from around the world. The palace boasts spectacular walled gardens, recognized as part of the Grandi Giardini Italiani collection. These gardens feature a diverse array of Mediterranean and exotic plants, including citrus trees and hybrid hibiscus. Visitors can explore the Italian formal garden with its fountains and bougainvillea, as well as the English informal garden with its central pool inhabited by turtles and carp. The gardens are maintained by a complex water and irrigation system, ensuring year-round beauty. Palazzo Parisio offers a variety of experiences, including destination dining at Luna Restaurant, afternoon tea in The Garden Restaurant, and evening drinks at The Garden Bar. The palace is also a sought-after wedding venue, with its magnificent ballroom and gardens providing an idyllic setting.