Masseria La Morella

Masseria La Morella, an impressive rural structure founded in the 17th century, is located south of Salerno in the vast Sele Plain, an area now renowned for its high-quality agricultural products and buffalo mozzarella. In the 18th century, the Masseria took on the characteristic appearance of a self-sufficient agricultural village, which has been preserved to this day. Situated at the heart of the estate, the building served as a control and defense center, protecting its inhabitants with its perimeter fortifications. Among the structures preserved to this day are the main residence, the steward’s house, shelters for laborers, the dovecote, the wine cellar, the stables, and a private chapel dedicated to “Santa Maria delle Grazie.” Of particular significance are the two circular buffalo dairies, used over the centuries for mozzarella production. One of them is now set up as the “Buffalo and Mozzarella Museum,” showcasing traditional tools used in milk processing.

History
The first documented records of agricultural activities at Masseria Morella, briefly summarized below, date back to the 1600s. From the second half of this century until 1681, the estate was owned by Dr. Matteo Majorino. In the early 18th century, La Morella and its associated lands were under the ownership of the Archdiocese of Salerno. In the late 1700s, La Morella passed by inheritance to the Marquis of Santa Lucia, Nicola de Vicariis, and was finally purchased in 1841 by Cavalier Domenico Granozio (1791–1885). A textile entrepreneur and son of Giuseppe Antonio, Granozio’s products were recognized and awarded at various exhibitions, including the 1862 International Exhibition in London. His entrepreneurial activities were part of the broader industrialization process in the Salerno area during the early 19th century. The Masseria has been passed down through the family to its current owners. For over three decades, Fabio Miletto Granozio and his wife Annette Brünger have been dedicated to restoring and enhancing the historic buildings, respecting their original architectural spirit.

Services
Today, Masseria La Morella, located at the heart of a thriving agricultural and wine-producing estate, offers visitors the chance to journey through the history of the Sele Plain. Guests can stay in simply furnished accommodations converted from the original dwellings. The building, surrounded by a large wooded park, citrus groves, olive trees, and vineyards, is ideally positioned for visiting many of Campania’s main tourist attractions within a short drive, such as the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, Vesuvius, Naples, Paestum, and the Cilento National Park. Day visitors can enjoy tastings of the Masseria’s wines and olive oil in the historic wine cellar and visit the Buffalo and Mozzarella Museum.

For many years, Masseria La Morella has also hosted wedding receptions and other events, blending simplicity, elegance, and gastronomy. Couples and their guests are offered a unique experience, discovering evocative, history-filled spaces, alternating—depending on the season—between the outdoor areas and the specially restored halls.