Antonelli Castracani Augusti Palace

Palazzo Antonelli Castracani Augusti, known as the Palace of the Hundred Windows, is an imposing noble residence situated on the hills of the Misa Valley, in the locality of Brugnetto di Trecastelli. Its history dates back to the 13th century, when the Antonelli family began building a castle on a previous settlement. In 1750, Cardinal Niccolò Maria Antonelli transformed the building into a prestigious palace, entrusting architect Andrea Vici, a student of Luigi Vanvitelli, with the design of the magnificent main façade and the grand ceremonial staircase that still define its appearance today.

The building extends over five floors, with the ground floor featuring some of its most impressive rooms, such as the Sala delle Armi (Hall of Arms), the Salone delle Aquile (Hall of Eagles), and the elegant Sala degli Specchi (Hall of Mirrors). The noble floor, which is open to visits by appointment, is adorned with frescoes by Felice Giani, inspired by the ornamental motifs of the Domus Aurea in Rome. Over the centuries, the palace has hosted important historical figures, including Leonardo Antonelli, Secretary of State under Pope Pius VII, and Cardinal Giacomo Antonelli, known as the “Italian Richelieu” for his prominent role in the politics of the Papal States. The palace also became a meeting place for diplomatic delegations from European courts.

After Cardinal Giacomo’s death, the residence passed to his niece, Laurentina Castracani degli Antelminelli, a descendant of Castruccio Castracani, and her husband Augusto Augusti, who maintained ownership of the property to this day. The Augusti family transformed the palace into a center for art and culture, with the opening in 2024 of the Gino Augusti 900 Museum House, the Cavalleria Inn, and the Domus Augusti, where guests can stay in the historic residence by appointment.

In addition to its architectural treasures, the palace also houses a small church dedicated to San Francesco d’Assisi and Santa Timotea, designed by Luigi Vanvitelli in 1757, which contains a notable work by Domenico Corvi. Surrounded by a magnificent park with centuries-old oaks and cypress trees, the Palace of the Hundred Windows offers an exceptional experience of art, history, and culture. It is open to the public for guided tours by appointment.