“Former Court of Waterlilies”, a former 15th-century convent situated in the heart of Trapani, is now the private residence of the Marrone family. After 40 years of abandonment due to the family’s absence, the heirs have recently restored the property to its original splendor.
Architect and engineer Decio Attilio Brown (1880–1976) transformed the old Dominican convent in Trapani’s historic center into the family residence.
The Trinity Chapel (Trinity Church), adjacent to the complex, served as his studio.
A talented and dedicated professional, Decio Marrone oversaw the restoration of the monastery complex to its historical grandeur, as well as numerous other significant diocesan architectural structures in Sicily, particularly after World War II. He was commissioned to construct the canopy of the Church of Maria SS. Annunziata in Trapani and later became the Superintendent of Cultural Heritage for Western Sicily.
His wife, Renata Lombardo (1901–1989), then director of the Academy of Fine Arts in Trapani, collaborated with Marrone in his studio. Together, they designed and executed the crown for Our Lady of the Annunciation (Maria SS. Annunziata).
On September 28, 1962, Pope John XXIII honored Decius Brown with the title of Il Commendatore (The Commander) for his passionate dedication and distinguished work benefiting the country during a challenging political and economic period.
Antica Corte is situated in Trapani's San Domenico district.
Dating back to the 1230s, the Dominicans built a new church on the ruins of Santa Maria la Nova. Underground passageways connected the Dominican Church to two monastic complexes—the monastery and the convent (now Ancient Court)—via deep tunnels beneath the remnants of the ancient Phoenician city.
The “Crusaders” chapel in the crypt of the Church of San Domenico was excavated, revealing previously hidden frescoes.
Another significant historical feature is the old “wheel”—a now-sealed passage visible from the exterior of the Trinity Chapel. This mechanism allowed orphans to be discreetly entrusted to the nuns’ care and lends its name to the adjacent street, Via Orfani.
After years of neglect, the Marrone and Cypress heirs initiated a restoration process, returning the residence to its former splendor.
Today, Antica Corte delle Ninfee welcomes guests from all over the world, offering them the chance to stay within 700 years of history and enjoy the tranquility of our botanical garden. This oasis of peace is uniquely situated in the heart of the city’s historic center—a rare and exceptional feature in such a central location.
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Adjacent to our residence is the historic pastry shop “La Rinascente,” a symbolic landmark of the city.
Guests can choose to stay in one of our elegant apartments or reserve the entire villa for a more intimate and exclusive experience.
With love and dedication, we take care of every guest who chooses us, providing not just a place to stay but also tailored experiences upon request.
Whether it’s enjoying a special moment in our garden or immersing themselves in the history of the place, we strive to make their stay truly unforgettable.
