About Us
The Soul Behind the Heritage: a Story of Chocolate, Passion, and Shared Dreams
Massimiliano and Rita – A Vision Scented with Cacao, from Tuscany to Africa
Once upon a time, there was a house made of chocolate. Perhaps, it is still here.
At Domus Socolatae Heritage Residence in Follonica, every gesture, fragrance, and detail narrates a family saga of passion, world travels, and heartfelt homecomings.
It all began with a creative mother who crafted enchanted chocolate houses for her blue-eyed daughter—edible masterpieces meant to be shared with friends and laughter.
That little girl grew up, passing this dream to her own daughter, and then to the generations that followed… until the day she returned to her grand family villa in Maremma. She chose to transform it into a sanctuary of memory, beauty, and refined hospitality.
This is the genesis of Domus Socolatae: a Liberty-style manor meticulously reimagined as a charming Tuscany B&B. Here, every guest is welcomed into the warmth of a real home, enveloped by the evocative scent of cacao and the vibrant colors of the Tuscan coast.
A Vision of Ethical Luxury
Massimiliano and Rita, the creative minds and guiding souls behind Domus Socolatae, have woven environmental, economic, and social sustainability into the very fabric of the residence. Our mission is reflected in three core pillars:- Heritage Preservation – a meticulous conservation restoration of the Liberty-style villa, beautifully integrated with cherished family furnishings and antique heirlooms.
- Green Energy – the residence is powered by renewable energy resources, honoring our commitment to the Tuscan landscape.
- Global Solidarity – we proudly support ethical tourism and social projects in Africa, specifically on the Island of Príncipe (São Tomé and Príncipe)—famed as the “Cocoa Islands”—bridging our passion for chocolate with real-world impact.
Hospitality with a Heart: Rosa Iridis Onlus
Through our non-profit association, Rosa Iridis Onlus, we lead vital projects focused on social inclusion and sustainable development on the Island of Príncipe, in the heart of São Tomé and Príncipe—the “Cocoa Islands.” Our mission is rooted in the values of meaningful work, mutual respect, and human dignity. Part of Domus Socolatae‘s profits directly support these initiatives. Because welcoming also means restoring value and hope to the world.
About Us
A graduate in Economics from Turin, Massimiliano brings a wealth of experience from the food distribution, environmental, and non-profit sectors. As the soulful heart of our hospitality, he is a dedicated host—attentive, mindful, and always ready to listen, ensuring every guest feels truly seen.
With a dual background in Economics and Psychology, Rita has dedicated her expertise to the Psychology of Well-being. Her vision was to create a sanctuary where guests can deeply regenerate, experiencing a refined balance of gentle care and impeccable professionalism.
