Welcome to
Villa Lawrence
About us
Welcome to Villa Lawrence – A charming, traditional Sicilian villa steeped in history
and character – based close to the heart of Taormina – and now owned and
managed by Louisa Vittorio. Louisa is determined to share the villas legacy and so
has opened VL’s doors to visitors as a place to relax, be creative and learn to cook
some Sicilian culinary classics.
Villa Lawrence boasts a rich and fascinating history – from the Roman tomb in the
villa gardens to the villa playing host to renowned authors and other creatives over
the decades.
It is hard to be precise about when the villa, originally a barn, was created but the
Roman tomb is 2000 years old and the villa certainly from the 1800’s possibly earlier
with additional layers apparent over the decades.
It was Louisa’s Great Uncle Don Ciccio, Francesco Cacopardo, living in the stable
area, who rented the upper house to D.H. Lawrence in 1919 and Truman Capote
during the 1950s. You can learn some traditional Sicilian recipes in the kitchen these
greats would have prepared food in and enjoy the fruits of your labour on the same
terrace as they would have taken the sun and imbued the stunning vistas.
“
“In Taormina, the sea is a great presence, which you return to, like a mother.”
DH Lawrence
The
House
Villa Lawrence, a place rich in history and charm, has hosted over the years prominent figures who have left an indelible mark on the world of culture and art. Among the most well-known figures who have crossed its threshold are Bramine Hubrecht, an influential writer and journalist, D.H. Lawrence, the celebrated British writer, Truman Capote, the master of American literature, and Howard Agg, an icon of the theatrical world. These personalities, united by a deep passion for art and beauty, have contributed to making Villa Lawrence a place of meeting and cultural exchange, where ideas flourished and creativity found fertile ground.
The
House
Villa Lawrence, a place rich in history and charm, has hosted over the years prominent figures who have left an indelible mark on the world of culture and art. Among the most well-known figures who have crossed its threshold are Bramine Hubrecht, an influential writer and journalist, D.H. Lawrence, the celebrated British writer, Truman Capote, the master of American literature, and Howard Agg, an icon of the theatrical world. These personalities, united by a deep passion for art and beauty, have contributed to making Villa Lawrence a place of meeting and cultural exchange, where ideas flourished and creativity found fertile ground.
Cooking
class
Spend two hours in the kitchen, complete with a mid-session break featuring an aperitif and food tasting. Relish your exquisite four-course meal served on our private terrace, where you can enjoy stunning sea views.
Space
If cooking isn’t your forte, we offer a variety of tailored experiences designed specifically for you and your group
Enjoy our location
Villa Lawrence was the home of influential figures such as Bramine Hubrecht, D.H. Lawrence, Truman Capote and Howard Agg, who helped make it a place of cultural exchange and creative flourishing. The villa, rich in history and charm, has been a landmark for art and beauty.
“
“It is a magic place, a place where every view is a painting.”
Truman Capote