Historic Hotel
Originally a 17th century mansion, Casa Delfino was owned by Giovanni Delfino, a knight and ship-owner from Marseille since the middle of the 19th century. It was used as a family house until World War II, when it suffered great damages and was abandoned. In 1986, the 5th generation of the Delfino family started renovating the house in order to turn it into a charming hotel, while also maintaining its original historic character.
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Summary of reviews related to the 'Historic' categoryCasa Delfino Hotel & Spa is a beautiful boutique property situated in the heart of the old Venetian town in Chania. The hotel was built in the 17th century and boasts a rich history that transports you back to the Venetian era. The location is perfect for exploring the culture, architecture and food of the city. The historical atmosphere of the hotel is truly unique with buckets of character and charm. The building itself is well-maintained and guests appreciate the convenient location near the port. Many reviewers rave about the beauty of this historic hotel, describing it as a bubble of freshness in a historical setting. For a stay in a pretty Venetian building full of history and character, Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa is the perfect place to stay.
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Year erected: 17TH CENTURY
What is the history of the property?
The history of Casa Delfino is a story of romance, adventure, and extraordinary twists of fate. The tale begins in 1835 with Giovanni Delfino, a knight and ship-owner from Marseille, who made his fortune transporting goods across the Mediterranean.
On one fateful trip bound for Syria, a storm cast Delfino aground at the Castle of Gramvousa on Crete. He sought refuge in the Capuchin monastery. Delfino managed to salvage his precious cargo of cod, which he sold to the locals at a handsome profit. Quick to spot a gap in the market, Delfino requested another shipment of fish to be sent from Marseille. Along with the cargo, his wife Bianca and their children, Petro and Margaritte, were also dispatched to Crete.
As Delfino’s business continued to flourish, the family decided to settle in Chania permanently. Between 1840-1860, Delfino purchased a grand Venetian mansion in the heart of town, conveniently located close to the harbour.
When Giovanni Delfino’s daughter Margaritte came of marrying age, a suitable groom was found in Marseille. So Margaritte began the long sea voyage to meet her future husband. But destiny intervened: on the way, she fell in love with the captain of the ship, who was a charming Italian. In a flash, Marseille was forgotten, and the young couple turned the ship around and returned to Chania.
The family home was given to Margaritte as part of her dowry. From then on, it became known as Casa Delfino. The happy couple raised six children in the house. All future generations continued to live in the family house, until the Second World War. Casa Delfino suffered severe damages during the German occupation. The house was abandoned and gradually fell into ruin.
Eventually, in 1986, Manthos Markantonakis - a fifth generation descendant of the Delfino family - made it his mission to restore the family home to its former splendour. With great love and care, Casa Delfino was renovated, upgraded, and converted into a luxury hotel. Manthos’ ambition was to recreate the sense of a private residence in the heart of Chania.
Today, the building’s rich and colourful heritage is as much a trademark of Casa Delfino as the exceptional hospitality and elegant interiors. Period antiques and personalised service capture the authentic spirit of this timeless landmark. To this day, Casa Delfino remains a part of the original family's legacy, and is deeply engrained in their hearts.
What was the era and/or the architectural style in which the property was built?
17th century venetian building
Is the property surrounded by other historic buildings?
yes
Has restoration work taken place?
yes
Are there any elements of particular historical importance at the building?
18th century authentic hammer and lots of antiques
Are there any important guests or previous owners worth mentioning?
queen sofia, jean paul gaultier, viggo mortensen, kirsten dunst, duke of kensington, al gore
Has the property received any certifications for its historical status?
no
Would you describe your property as (or has it ever been in the past) a: Mansion
