Orient Express, the ultra-luxe train service, is set to open the brand’s first hotel in Rome. Located in the historic Piazza della Minerva, Orient Express La Minerva will be steps from the Pantheon and is expected to welcome guests from spring 2025.
The hotel, which was originally known as Palazzo Fonseca, dates back to the 17th century and occupies an entire island site. The property was acquired in 2021 by Arsenale SpA.
The building has undergone extensive renovations, which saw the interiors and historical features being designed and restored under the direction of Franco-Mexican Artist architect and interior designer, Hugo Toro. Inspired by the Eternal City and its rich history, the restoration work combines Art Déco style with contemporary elements.
“This milestone proudly marks the long-anticipated arrival of our first Orient Express hotel. Nestled in the heart of Rome, it is not only a destination for travelers 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,” said Gilda Perez-Alvarado, CEO Orient Express.
Built in 1620 as the residence of the aristocratic Portuguese Fonseca family, the building changed hands in 1811 and was purchased by the French Sauve family who transformed it into a hotel. The hotel soon became a favored destination during the Grand Tour for renowned artists such as Stendhal, Vittorio Alfieri and Melville, and even hosted Pope Pius IX.
The hotel includes the La Minerva Bar, which features the historic skylight and serves as a tribute to Minerva, the Roman goddess of art and craftsmanship who inspired the project. At the rooftop, the Voliera restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine and panoramic views of Rome.
Orient Express La Minerva also includes meeting and events spaces, including a ballroom with chandeliers and 12 marble statues by Rinaldo Rinaldi and three more meeting rooms.
“In a period of renaissance for the city, Rome is the ideal setting for a global project aimed at creating an authentic, memorable and personalized luxury hospitality experience. With the opening of Orient Express La Minerva, we restore a historic stage to the city that for years has been a refuge for renowned intellectuals and artists. At the same time, we are bringing an iconic name like Orient Express to the Capital, a universal symbol since 1883 of the art of travel and bold, refined adventures,” said Giampaolo Ottazzi, general manager of Orient Express Hotels Italy.
