75-Year-Old Puts 17th-Century Palace on Market for Gaza

Eugenia Granito, a 75-year-old resident of Rocca Cilento in southern Italy, has placed her historic family palace on the market. The property dates to the 17th century, approaching its fourth century of existence. Granito intends to donate the full sale proceeds to assist children in Gaza.

The estate features a private chapel dedicated to Saint Joseph, with records dating back to 1751. The garden contains walnut and cherry trees. A persimmon tree stands in the garden as well. Granito’s father planted that specific tree in 1949 to celebrate her wedding. The tree has remained on the property for nearly eight decades.

Francesco Pio Figliola, a real estate agent specializing in prestigious properties in the Cilento region, is handling the sale. He shared the story on social media after being moved by Granito’s decision. Figliola noted that despite working with wealthy owners and valuable properties, he had not previously encountered a similar gesture.

Granito’s decision follows a November 8 report by Al Jazeera. She stated that images of injured Palestinian children affected her deeply. She expressed particular concern over reports of children who lost limbs and underwent amputations without anesthesia. When asked why she chose to help children in Gaza rather than those in Italy, she explained that she wanted the funds to reach those in greatest need.

Current conditions in Gaza include cold weather and flooded tents due to heavy rains. Granito wants a representative from Médecins Sans Frontières present when the sale is finalized. She hopes to discuss how the money will be deployed. Her goal is to help establish a hospital or another medical facility. The palace is currently offered for sale, and the transaction has not yet been completed.

Mohammed Hussein, a resident of Gaza, posted a video yesterday from a tent camp where he is living. He asked viewers to share the footage to amplify their voices. He urged for intervention to save those in the camp. The sale of Granito’s estate represents a direct attempt to provide resources for medical treatment and shelter in that region.