Weddings

Jewish Wedding in Castello Odescalchi di Palo | Rome

A Jewish wedding steeped in tradition at Castello Odescalchi di Palo, a historic castle just outside Rome.

By Roberta Perrone15+ years photographing Italy2 min read

A Timeless Celebration: Jewish Wedding at Castello Odescalchi di Palo near Rome

Introduction: A Love Story Unfolds in Historical Splendor

Nestled in the embrace of history, Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding graced the enchanting Castello Odescalchi di Palo, just outside of Rome. Against the backdrop of this timeless castle, a union marked by tradition, elegance, and love took center stage. Join us as we delve into the captivating narrative of a Jewish wedding that seamlessly blended heritage and romance in the heart of Italy.

Getting Ready: The Hours Before

The hours before a wedding are rarely the ones people plan around. They should be. Rachel got ready with her closest friends in the rooms of the castle — robes, coffee, music, the sea outside the window, the dress, the shoes, a long embrace with her father.

Dinner tables set in the castle garden – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Rachel smiling in her robe in the courtyard – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride and bridesmaids laughing in matching robes – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Lounge set-up on the castle lawn by the sea – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride and friend holding hands while getting ready – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

The sea below Castello Odescalchi di Palo – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Arched doorway into the castle garden – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride throwing her arms open while getting ready – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride and friends getting ready in the yellow courtyard – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Welcome details hanging in the castle – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

White drapery against the castle facade – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Sea and garden at Palo before the wedding – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Long dinner tables being set by the staff – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride reflected in a mirror in the courtyard – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom getting ready with his family – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

The groom's villa by the sea – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bridesmaids getting ready around a mirror – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Hair and make-up in black and white – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride laughing with a friend against the yellow wall – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bridesmaid sipping coffee while getting ready – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom's tie being adjusted – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Dinner tables in front of the castle – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Colourful cushions and pampas on the lawn – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Lounge with pampas grass by the sea – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Castello Odescalchi di Palo with the lounge set-up – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Castle towers above the lawn – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groomsmen walking along the sea wall – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Waiters lined up before the wedding – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Dinner set-up beside the castle – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Tables on the castle lawn – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom getting ready in black and white – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Light through a castle arch – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride in shadow by a doorway – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom in a frescoed castle room – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groomsmen walking by the castle towers – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Lounge areas with the sea behind – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

The castle and lawn before the guests arrive – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride's reflection in a mirror – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride and friend at a castle window – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Friends relaxing on the lawn – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Rachel embracing her father – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride dancing with a friend while getting ready – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride looking out at the sea – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride in a green castle room – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride's dress being lifted in black and white – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride raising her arms in golden light – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guests embracing on the lawn – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride sitting on a gold sofa – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bridesmaids in sequined dresses – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride and friend cheek to cheek – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride and friend laughing together – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom laughing with friends by the sea – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Mother of the bride laughing – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Father and bride embracing – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guest resting on a lounge in the garden – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom greeting guests by the sea – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride in her gown in a castle room – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride by a tall window – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride on a sofa in a castle room – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Pampas and lounge in the garden – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

This is where the story of the day starts — in the room where everyone is still themselves. If you want these hours photographed too, my 8-hour coverage begins with getting ready. See how the days work.

A Castle Steeped in Legacy

Castello Odescalchi di Palo stands as a testament to centuries of history, providing an idyllic setting for a wedding that transcends time. The castle’s grandeur and historic significance set the stage for a celebration that honored tradition while embracing the future. Its majestic walls have witnessed the passage of time, making it a perfect symbol of enduring love.

Guest by the sea wall in pink – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom greeting guests in a kippah – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Dinner tables in the garden – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride at a window above the courtyard – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride and friend embracing in a dark room – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guests gathering below the castle – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guests on the lawn before the ceremony – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bridesmaids walking past the castle – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Silhouette at a dark castle window – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Garden and sea before the ceremony – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride with bridesmaids in a doorway – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride embracing a friend in black and white – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride hugging a friend in the courtyard – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Tisch table on the lawn – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom and veiled bride walking – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Tisch with the rabbi and family – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guests gathering on the beach – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Signing at the tisch – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Chuppah on the beach – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Chuppah frame against the sea – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom walking out in a kippah – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride and her reflection in black and white – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Ceremony seating on the beach – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride walking with her father through the castle – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride at the castle gate in black and white – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom and bride walking by the castle – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Chuppah ready by the sea – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride embracing her mother – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride and father leaving the castle – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride and father under the castle arch – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Tradition and Culture Unite

The Jewish wedding at Castello Odescalchi di Palo was a splendid fusion of culture and tradition. Every detail, from the sacred rituals to the joyful dances, resonated with the couple’s shared heritage. Against the castle’s ageless backdrop, ancient customs intertwined with modern romance, creating a unique tapestry of memories that will be cherished for generations to come.

Guests lining the aisle on the beach – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom walking down the aisle – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride arriving with her father – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Castle courtyard before the ceremony – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride and father silhouetted in the arch – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guests along the beach aisle – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom waiting under the chuppah – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom embracing family under the chuppah – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride walking to the chuppah – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride and father on the beach aisle – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride walking down the aisle – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guests watching the bride arrive – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guests filming the processional – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom under the chuppah – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

The aisle at sunset – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride and father reaching the chuppah – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guests at the beach ceremony – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride greeting the groom in black and white – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom embracing the bride's father – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom embracing family – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom smiling at the veiled bride – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Men in kippot at the ceremony – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guests seated on the beach – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Ceremony under the chuppah at sunset – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride and groom in black and white – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Chuppah by the sea – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Traditional red fabric and gold coins – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guests seated by the sea – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Under the chuppah in black and white – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Couple under the chuppah in black and white – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Ceremony blessing in black and white – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Reading the ketubah under the chuppah – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guests on the beach – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom in a kippah under the rising moon – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Tallit raised over the couple – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Tallit over the couple in black and white – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride under the tallit – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Blessing under the tallit – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Couple wrapped in the tallit – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Couple after the ceremony – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Love in Every Detail

The meticulous planning and attention to detail elevated the wedding’s atmosphere to one of elegance and sophistication. From the beautifully adorned chuppah beneath which the couple exchanged vows to the carefully curated kosher cuisine that delighted the senses, every element was an ode to love’s enduring journey.

Celebration after the vows – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom embracing a guest – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom embracing his father at dusk – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride embracing a friend at dusk – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Chuppah flowers at blue hour – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Couple embracing after the ceremony – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Groom hugging the bride – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride smiling in the dark – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride embracing a guest – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride embracing a friend at night – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guests celebrating at night – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Dinner by candlelight at the castle – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guest under the moon – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Rachel and Sean signing the ketubah – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Couple walking under the castle arch at night – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

A Castle Transformed

Castello Odescalchi di Palo, usually steeped in history, was transformed into a realm of joy and celebration. The courtyard echoed with laughter, the halls reverberated with music, and the walls radiated with the warmth of friendship and family. The castle’s ambiance embraced the festive spirit, making it a truly unforgettable backdrop for the couple’s special day.

Dinner tables lit at night – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Party with coloured smoke – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Dancing in black and white – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Dancing under the lights – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Couple lifted on chairs during the hora – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Hora on chairs in black and white – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Dancing in front of the castle – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Dance floor in black and white – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Hora under purple lights – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Couple dancing close – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride lifted on a chair – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Castle and tables at night – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Dinner tables at night – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Dancing at night – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride dancing at night – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guests at dinner – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Dinner under string lights – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guest singing under coloured light – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guest in a red fez – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Dinner in the castle hall – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guests embracing on the dance floor – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Dancing under red light – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Dance floor at midnight – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Moroccan-style celebration in red light – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Guests in red fezzes – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

DJ lights – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Dancing in red light – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Bride dancing in red light – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Couple embracing in red light – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

DJ booth with light towers – Rachel and Sean’s Jewish wedding at Castello di Palo

Unveiling the Historical Evolution of Castello Odescalchi di Palo Laziale

Introduction: Tracing the Origins of Castello Odescalchi di Palo Laziale

The references to a “Castellum” and a “Castrum Pali” is when Palo emerges as the property of the Normans and the Monks of St. Saba.

Most likely constructed during the Papacy of Pius II Piccolomini, who ascended to the Papal throne on August 19, 1458.

The Castle underwent transformations following the Baronial conflicts of the 15th century, which involved the Orsini family.

Prospero D’ Acquasparta sold it on behalf of Giulio Orsini to Donna Felice Orsini della Rovere.

Chapter 1: Shifts in Power and Purpose

During the Roman Republic marked a decline in the temporal power of the Papacy and the downfall of the Papal States in 1870.

Safeguarding

The coastal fortifications, including the one in Palo, which had diligently served their duty of safeguarding the Pontiff despite challenges, lost their significance.

Chapter 2: Evolution of Purpose and Appearance

In a description from 1880, the Castle of Palo is depicted as transitioning from military architecture to civil use. Chambers turned into halls, quarters into kitchens, and battlements into living spaces. The once-armed sentinels were replaced by adventurous guests, enjoying the sea breeze from high balconies. During this era, the Castle was owned by Ladislaus I, Livius III’s heir. Under his tenure, the Castle took on its present appearance with the reconstruction of windows on the northern facade.