Orient Express La Minerva, formerly known as Palazzo Fonseca, has been renovated to combine 17th-century historic architecture with modern facilities. Located on Piazza della Minerva, near the Pantheon, the hotel will offer 93 rooms and suites.
The hotel will feature a panoramic restaurant, Rivamour, serving Mediterranean cuisine, and a La Minerva bar, inspired by the Roman goddess of art and craftsmanship. A spa, inspired by traditional Ottoman baths, will also be available, along with meeting spaces including the Olimpo Ballroom for business or private events. The renovation work has preserved historical elements while introducing contemporary design touches.
This opening marks a new milestone in the development of the Orient Express brand, which continues to expand its luxury hotel portfolio.
“This milestone proudly marks the long-anticipated arrival of our first Orient Express hotel – Orient Express La Minerva. Nestled in the heart of Rome, it is not only a destination for the most discerning travellers seeking exceptional experiences but also a place for Romans to come together. Here, Orient Express meets the soul of the Eternal City, creating a unique space where stories are shared, and cultures converge. It is with great pleasure to officially introduce the first asset to Orient Express’iconic portfolio of hotels, trains, and sailing yachts.” – Gilda Perez-Alvarado, CEO Orient Express
This brand expansion also coincides with the appointment of two-Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno as Executive Chef of the Orient Express Train and the world’s largest sailing yacht, the Orient Express Corinthian.
This collaboration between Orient Express and Yannick Alléno blends the brand’s legacy with French gastronomy. Aboard the train and yacht, Chef Alléno will offer exclusive menus inspired by the regions they traverse, providing a unique culinary experience. His cuisine, which combines traditional techniques with modern innovations, will enhance the gastronomic offerings aboard, adding a further dimension to the luxury journeys offered by Orient Express.
“Orient Express embodies travel in its noblest essence, and it is an honor to bring my vision of cuisine to this iconic universe, steeped in history. Each menu, each plate, is an invitation to discover my personal interpretation of culinary heritages from around the world, and of course from France, for an extraordinary experience aboard the legendary Orient Express.” – Yannick Alléno.
