EGN NEWS DESK
The transformation into Orient Express La Minerva was spearheaded by Arsenale SpA, who acquired the constructing in 2021. Under the inventive imaginative and prescient of Hugo Toro, a Franco-Mexican architect and inside designer, the property has undergone a meticulous renovation, restoring its architectural and historic significance whereas infusing it with modern sophistication.
The resort’s historical past is deeply rooted in Rome’s cultural and social material. Built in 1620 because the residence of the aristocratic Fonseca household, it later grew to become an opulent retreat for vacationers through the Grand Tour, internet hosting notable figures reminiscent of Stendhal, Vittorio Alfieri, and Herman Melville. Even Pope Pius IX graced its halls. In 1811, the constructing was reimagined as a resort below the possession of the French Sauve household. This legacy has been thoughtfully preserved within the new design, which pulls inspiration from Roman domus and town’s inventive heritage, mixing components of artwork deco with modern magnificence.
Guests of Orient Express La Minerva will step right into a world the place Rome’s historic grandeur meets fashionable luxurious. The foyer, anchored by the long-lasting statue of the Roman goddess Minerva sculpted by Rinaldo Rinaldi in 1854, units the tone for an expertise that honors the previous whereas celebrating the current. The statue’s presence underscores the resort’s dedication to artwork and craftsmanship, themes that echo all through its interiors.
Dining at La Minerva is an expertise in itself. La Minerva Bar, located below the constructing’s historic skylight, pays homage to its namesake deity with a menu that celebrates artistry in food and drinks. Meanwhile, the Voliera rooftop restaurant and bar serves Mediterranean delicacies and signature cocktails in opposition to the breathtaking backdrop of Rome’s skyline. Guests can soak up sweeping views of iconic landmarks reminiscent of Saint Peter’s Basilica, Sant’Ivo alla Sapienza, and the Altare della Patria. The resort’s spa takes inspiration from historical Roman baths, making a sanctuary of wellness and leisure. Traditional rituals and fashionable remedies mix to supply company a restorative escape, reflecting the timeless enchantment of Rome’s tradition of purification and rejuvenation.
Gilda Perez-Alvarado, CEO of Orient Express, described the opening as a major milestone for the model, stating, “This milestone proudly marks the long-anticipated arrival of our first Orient Express resort – Orient Express La Minerva. Here, Orient Express meets the soul of the Eternal City, creating a singular area the place tales are shared and cultures converge.” Her phrases seize the essence of what this resort goals to supply—a gathering place for vacationers and locals alike, the place the spirit of Rome is well known by hospitality and design.
For these searching for venues for personal occasions or enterprise gatherings, Orient Express La Minerva gives a variety of subtle choices. The Olimpo Ballroom, adorned with Murano chandeliers and marble statues by Rinaldi depicting the 4 components, seasons, and continents, serves because the crown jewel of the occasion areas. Three further assembly rooms present flexibility for internet hosting quite a lot of events, all imbued with the magnificence and a spotlight to element synonymous with the Orient Express title.
The vibrant neighbourhood Pigna is on the true coronary heart of Rome with a central location and inside strolling distance of the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Spanish Steps, Colosseum, St Peter’s Basilica, museums, boutiques, eating places and bars. Reservations are actually open for arrivals beginning on 1 April 2025, permitting travellers to be among the many first to expertise this extraordinary addition to Rome’s hospitality scene.
For additional data, go to laminerva.orient-express.com
