March 2025 | VOL 14
the ARISTOCRATIC FAMILY’S VISION of PARADISE
RESCHIO
words Laura Cottrell
photos Courtesy of Reschio
The year is 1984... Count Antonio Bolza and his wife Angelika buy Castello di Reschio, a 2700-acre estate in the wooded hills of Umbria, Italy. There are fifty ruined farmhouses and an old castle in the land. In a short amount of time, the Bolza family with five children begins to build a life in Umbria, which was not well known in those days. Years later, they decide to share this unspoiled region of the Italian countryside with similar like-minded souls who seek peace and seclusion. Benedikt, the son of the aristocratic family who studied architecture in London, also returned and joined the family operation with his vision. Ultimately, Benedict meticulously reconstructs 22 of the 50 houses in 13 years and even wins prizes in the sector. This includes Architectural Digest's title of ‘one of the top 100 architects working in the field of architecture and design’. Thus, the Reschio that everyone knows today, gradually emerges.
NOT JUST A HOTEL
Count Benedict Bolza is now described as 'one of the rare nobles who built his kingdom with his own hands’. Bolza continues to transform the centuries-old ruins of Castello di Reschio into exquisite residences with a team of 120 people. ‘I think luxury comes from beauty and harmony. At Reschio, we design everything around us, from the staff uniforms to the furniture in the bathroom,' Benedikt said in an interview. Benedikt is in charge of everything at Reschio and still lives on the estate with his family.
Today there are different acclaimed areas in Reschio aside from the hotel, including the barn of 40 spectacular Spanish horses that Benedikt's father raised for ’dressage’. One of them is Tabaccaia, a tobacco warehouse from the 1940s, where Benedikt's architecture and design studio is located. Furniture and lighting made by local craftsmen are sold under the brand name B.B. for Reschio.
SIP YOUR NEGRONI IN THE PALM COURTYARD
Reschio has two interconnected courtyards within the castle where the hotel is located. The first is the Palm Courtyard, now covered in glass, with wrought iron columns and the mysterious atmosphere of an Agatha Christie novel. In fact, when you arrive at the Castello, this is the first place you should visit. Palm Court is a place where you can sip an addictive Reschio Negroni and absorb the magnificence of the castle walls from the inside. The other courtyard in the Castello is surrounded by impressive pine and cypress trees. Concerts are held here because of the excellent acoustics.
CHRISTMAS MASS AND COSMIC JOURNEY
Reschio is also famous for its events on special days. For example, the Christmas Mass on December 24th, held in the chapel of the Bolza family inside the walls. Or a cosmic journey for those who stay at least three days. The Cosmic Journey has a very full schedule, from stargazing with the astronomer to yoga sessions.
And the restaurants... Ristorante Al Castello is famous for its beautiful sunsets. Breakfast is served here. In the evening, traditional Italian specialties are served with ingredients from the land. Adorned with tall fern trees, Ristorante Alle Scuderie attracts attention with its handmade furniture and simple menu prepared with fresh local produce. The Bar Centrale is a stylish spot for pre-dinner cocktails.
