THE HISTORY

Looking at yesterday to improve today and tomorrow even more

The story of a family-owned reality built on hard work and values.

From Pitti Caffè to
I Luoghi di Pitti

 

 

 

 

1984

The journey began in 1984, with the support of mother Pasqua and a few disagreements with father Giuseppe. On the chilly evening of February 18th, in via dei Mille 119 in Altamura, the dream and desire of grandmother Margherita became a reality with the opening of the Pitti Caffè pastry shop and café.

1991

While Pitti Caffè preserved its artisanal roots and tradition, it evolved to meet new ambitions and customer needs. In June 1991, a new location opened in Piazza Matteotti, expanding the business into the fields of dining and catering.

2001

In January 2001, the defining moment arrived with the acquisition of the ruined Masseria San Giovanni, now recognized as a true Murgia gem. The courage and audacity behind its restoration and reuse led to its rebirth. In September of the same year, the first wedding took place, marking the beginning of a new chapter for this extraordinary place.

Today, Masseria San Giovanni continues to grow, thanks to the vision and dedication of six partners: Luigi, Maria Luigia, Matteo, Gaetano, Margherita, and Lorenzo. All sibling.

The Masseria has its roots in the flourishing lands of San Giovanni delle Matine, a rural area of ​​Altamura from which the name originates.

Why PITTI?

 

 

The name Pitti Caffè was born from a conversation between Mr. Carlo Camicia and the Moramarco brothers, with the architects Laborante and Ferrulli in their studio. It was the time of high fashion in Florence, and, on the table where they gathered, their eyes landed on a particular magazine titled Pitti Moda – Moda Pitti, its mirrored visual appearance sparking inspiration. By replacing “moda” (fashion) with “caffè” (coffee), a sense of elegance and taste immediately resonated, becoming the perfect representation of the venue, which had yet to be named.

 

Other names were considered, such as Dolce con te (“Sweet with You”), evoking the idea of sharing a sweet treat or enjoying it with tea. There were also references to Azzurra, inspired by the Azzurra yacht competing in the America’s Cup at the time, and attempts to create a name from the initials and syllables of the brothers’ names. However, none of these options captured the same spirit.

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The Origins of Masseria San Giovanni

 

 

Masseria San Giovanni delle Matine is a striking fortress that rises majestically in the heart of the Puglian Murgia.

 

The origins of this place date back to the Neolithic era, as evidenced by the remains of an ancient village found nearby. Over the centuries, the masseria has witnessed numerous historical periods,
from prehistoric times to the Roman and medieval ages. In the 16th century, it was transformed from a simple farmhouse into a noble residence for the Sabini family, who turned the site into a thriving agro-pastoral estate.

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In the 18th century, under the guidance of Vincenzo Sabini and his wife Eleonora Martucci, the original structure underwent major renovations, with new buildings and lavish decorations added to the residence.

 

Today, Masseria San Giovanni lives on through I Luoghi di Pitti, continuing to captivate visitors with its majesty and timeless charm. With its spacious halls, underground chambers carved into the tuff stone, ancient frescoes, and lush gardens, it stands as a true historical gem of Puglia, a tangible testament to the glorious past of this land.

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