REAL ESTATE MATTERS ADDENDUM: Own a Medieval Treasure in the Heart of Gaeta, Italy
Nestled in the historic upper village of Gaeta, along Via Pio IX, lies a property unlike any other—a fragment of history waiting to be reborn. This is a unique chance to own part of the ancient Santa Caterina d’Alessandria complex, a medieval site whose roots stretch back to the early 14th century.
This rare property once formed part of the Benedictine monastery and lighthouse that stood beside the still-standing Gothic-style church of Santa Caterina. Though the lighthouse was destroyed in 1943, the surviving building retains its authentic architectural soul. With its soaring barrel vaults, exposed arches, and original stone details, this house offers the unmistakable atmosphere of centuries past.
Architectural Details & Living Potential
Spread across three levels and approximately 3,876 square feet, the building maintains its original structural plan. Inside, you’ll find:
Ground floor entrance: a direct, independent doorway from Via Pio IX.
First floor: a dramatic vaulted space with ceilings between 16 and 20 feet high, perfect for adding mezzanines and enhancing vertical flow.
Upper levels: several rooms, including a historic kitchen, a bay-window bathroom, and a space awaiting restoration where an attic once stood.
The opportunity to reconstruct the upper level also opens the possibility of adding a rooftop solarium terrace, where panoramic views of Gaeta’s sea and historic rooftops create a breathtaking “living postcard.”
Restoration VisioN
Unused for decades, the property has survived with its original features remarkably intact. However, it does require significant restoration and consolidation work. With sensitive renovation, new owners can strike the perfect balance—preserving the historic integrity while bringing in modern comfort and functionality.
Imagine transforming niches, vaulted ceilings, and ancient stone details into a living environment that blends historic character with contemporary design. This property is more than a home—it’s a canvas for visionaries who value originality and the chance to safeguard a cultural legacy.
Lifestyle & Investment Potential
Beyond its character, this home offers practical advantages: independent access, nearby parking in a tranquil square-belvedere, and a privileged location in Gaeta’s historic core.
Its versatility makes it ideal both as a personal residence and as a unique hospitality venture (such as a boutique B&B). Few investments carry such an intrinsic sense of history and uniqueness—qualities that ensure both personal fulfillment and long-term value.
Key Details
Location: Gaeta, Via Pio IX (historic upper village)
Size: 3,876 sq ft total, 3 levels
Historic origins: 14th-century Benedictine monastery complex
Price: €280,000 (≈ US $328,952)
Energy certificate: Exempt
Final Thoughts
Opportunities like this do not come often. Reference V68 is more than just real estate—it is a living fragment of medieval Italy, ready to be restored, reimagined, and cherished for generations to come. For those who seek originality, authenticity, and a home that tells a story, this Gaeta property is a rare treasure.
Where Is the “Heart of Gaeta”?
Gaeta is a historic coastal city located on Italy’s western shoreline, along the Tyrrhenian Sea. Its strategic position lies halfway between Rome and Naples:
Rome: approximately 75 miles (120 km) to the northwest — about a 2-hour drive.
Naples: approximately 60 miles (96 km) to the south — about a 1.5-hour drive.
This makes Gaeta not only a place of extraordinary history and charm but also a convenient hub for reaching two of Italy’s most iconic cities while enjoying the tranquility of a seaside town.