- The Nun Assisi Relais & Spa stands out in this list for its contemporary design — it occupies a 13th century monastery, so it couldn’t be more historic, but the flair with which it has been converted, and redesigned and decorated, makes it feel very modern. The vaulted ceilings go especially well with contemporary Italian furniture in white leather. The best of the 18 rooms and suites have original frescoes on the walls, and even the simplest have exposed brick and terracotta tiles. The restaurant is a gourmet affair, and the spa is good enough to be included in the name.