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La Minerva, in Rome – Image Credit Accor  Â
Orient Express has announced the upcoming opening of their first-ever hotel, La Minerva, in Rome. The hotel, located in the historic Piazza della Minerva and offering a view of the Pantheon and the Roman skyline, is set to open in Spring 2025. The property is now open for reservations.
The hotel, which dates back to the 17th century and was formerly known as Palazzo Fonseca, was acquired by Arsenale SpA in 2021. It has undergone extensive renovation under the guidance of architect and interior designer Hugo Toro. The new design focuses on restoring the building’s historical features and interiors.
La Minerva will house ninety-three rooms and suites. It will also feature a comprehensive food and beverage program, including a new rooftop restaurant and bar offering immersive views of Rome. The hotel aims to provide a unique space for both travelers and locals.
The building was originally built in 1620 as a residence for the Portuguese Fonseca family. In 1811, the French Sauve family purchased it and converted it into a hotel. Over the years, it has hosted renowned artists and even a visit from Pope Pius IX. The restoration project aimed to reflect its rich history while combining art deco style with contemporary elegance.
Guests can enjoy the La Minerva Bar, which showcases the building’s historic skylight and pays homage to Minerva, the Roman goddess of art and craftsmanship. Additionally, the rooftop restaurant and bar Voliera offers Mediterranean cuisine and cocktails against a panoramic backdrop of Rome. The hotel also includes a spa inspired by traditional Roman baths.
La Minerva also offers sophisticated spaces for meetings and events. These include the Olimpo Ballroom, decorated with Murano chandeliers, marble statues by Rinaldo Rinaldi, and three additional meeting rooms.
Giampaolo Ottazzi, General Manager of Orient Express Hotels Italy, expressed the significance of the hotel’s opening in Rome, citing the city’s ongoing renaissance as the ideal setting for a project focused on creating a luxury hospitality experience.
Reservations for the hotel are now available. Room sizes range from 25 to 235 square meters, and prices for a classic room, including breakfast, start from €1,000. Suites start from €2,500, and Signature Suites from €3,500, with breakfast included in all prices.