Nestled in the heart of eastern Sicily, San Giuliano is a historic estate belonging to the Marquises Paternò-Castello, whose origins date back to the 15th century. Surrounded by fertile land once dedicated to vineyards and centuries-old olive trees, the property has evolved over time into a remarkable horticultural haven. It is a beautiful example of a contemporary garden, the result of a blend between exoticism and ancient Sicilian traditions, with majestic trees and aromatic, fragrant, and flower-filled paths.
1397
The Estate Joins the Family
King Martin I of Sicily grants the San Giuliano estate to knight Martino Scalambro. Through inheritance, it eventually becomes part of the Paternò Castello family’s holdings, where it has remained for over 800 years.
King Martin I of Sicily grants the San Giuliano estate to knight Martino Scalambro. Through inheritance, it eventually becomes part of the Paternò Castello family’s holdings, where it has remained for over 800 years.
1693
Estate Expansion
Antonino Paternò Castello marries Giulia Asmundo e Joppolo, bringing the San Giuliano estate into the family through her dowry.
Antonino Paternò Castello marries Giulia Asmundo e Joppolo, bringing the San Giuliano estate into the family through her dowry.
1720
Marquisate of San Giuliano
Orazio Paternò Castello Asmundo is invested with the title of Marquis of San Giuliano, cementing the family’s association with the estate.
Orazio Paternò Castello Asmundo is invested with the title of Marquis of San Giuliano, cementing the family’s association with the estate.
Circa 1800
Citrus Cultivation Begins
The estate’s fertile lands welcome their first orange trees, marking the beginning of its citrus cultivation, which becomes a significant aspect of the property’s agricultural identity.
The estate’s fertile lands welcome their first orange trees, marking the beginning of its citrus cultivation, which becomes a significant aspect of the property’s agricultural identity.
1852–1914
Diplomatic Endeavors
Antonino Paternò Castello, 8th Marquis of San Giuliano, serves as Italy’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and plays a pivotal role in early 20th-century diplomacy.
Antonino Paternò Castello, 8th Marquis of San Giuliano, serves as Italy’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and plays a pivotal role in early 20th-century diplomacy.
1974
Tropical Transformation
Inspired by his seven-year residence in Brazil, Giuseppe Paternò Castello di San Giuliano, along with his wife Fiamma Ferragamo, starts converting three hectares of citrus groves into a tropical-inspired garden, introducing palms, bougainvillea, and vibrant flora.
Inspired by his seven-year residence in Brazil, Giuseppe Paternò Castello di San Giuliano, along with his wife Fiamma Ferragamo, starts converting three hectares of citrus groves into a tropical-inspired garden, introducing palms, bougainvillea, and vibrant flora.
Late 1970s–1990s
Garden Expansion
The garden expands to include exotic plants, palm trees, and Arab-inspired water features. The garden evolves organically, reflecting a shared passion for horticulture.
The garden expands to include exotic plants, palm trees, and Arab-inspired water features. The garden evolves organically, reflecting a shared passion for horticulture.
1990s
The Arab Garden Blooms
Landscape architect Oliva di Collobiano reimagines a walled orchard into the enchanting Arab Garde, a lower garden bursting with Mediterranean charm.
Landscape architect Oliva di Collobiano reimagines a walled orchard into the enchanting Arab Garde, a lower garden bursting with Mediterranean charm.
2002
A New Gardener’s Touch
Rachel Lamb becomes head gardener, collaborating with Giuseppe to introduce new plant species and whimsical planting schemes, ensuring the garden’s continual evolution.
Rachel Lamb becomes head gardener, collaborating with Giuseppe to introduce new plant species and whimsical planting schemes, ensuring the garden’s continual evolution.
2013
Garden Glory
The Giardino di San Giuliano receives the prestigious Giardini Grand Prix, a testament to its lush beauty and horticultural excellence.
The Giardino di San Giuliano receives the prestigious Giardini Grand Prix, a testament to its lush beauty and horticultural excellence.
2020s
Expansion and Enrichment
Diego di San Giuliano expands the property by acquiring additional land and planting more ornate groves. Together with his wife Fiona, they further develop the gardens, enhancing its beauty and diversity.
Diego di San Giuliano expands the property by acquiring additional land and planting more ornate groves. Together with his wife Fiona, they further develop the gardens, enhancing its beauty and diversity.
2025
Yogherello Retreats
Fiona Corsini di San Giuliano introduces ‘Yogherello’, a delightful fusion of yoga and watercolor workshops, inviting guests to stretch, paint, and bask in the garden’s serene ambiance. 
Fiona Corsini di San Giuliano introduces ‘Yogherello’, a delightful fusion of yoga and watercolor workshops, inviting guests to stretch, paint, and bask in the garden’s serene ambiance. 
Giardino di San Giuliano, syracuse, sicily
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