Book the Orient Express La Minerva with VIP Benefits

The Orient Express La Minerva Hotel is a hidden gem in the heart of Rome. This refined retreat is in a historic 17th-century palace. It invites guests to explore Rome through a lens that combines classic Italian elegance and sophistication. Its rich architecture, personal service, and cozy atmosphere capture Rome's spirit at every turn. This boutique jewel offers you a romantic stay in Rome.

Overview

This hotel is located in Rome's center, steps away from the Pantheon and 1,476 feet from Piazza Navona. The Spanish Steps are a 15-minute walk. This hotel also has an incredible rooftop terrace that offers stunning views of Rome.

Illustrious travelers and nobles once graced the storied rooms of the hotel. Palazzo Fonseca is the home of the first Orient Express Hotel, a blend of Art Deco and contemporary styles.

Moreover, the Gigi Roma is a restaurant and bar that offers Mediterranean food in one of Rome's most stunning and enchanting locations. It also provides 360-degree views of Rome. La Minerva Bar, located in the lobby lounge, is also a restaurant and bar that serves all day long. The statue by Rinaldo Rinaldi of Minerva, the goddess of wisdom, graces the bar.

The Orient Express La Minerva breakfast is an ideal way to start the day. You can also enjoy the view while you eat. A passionate team of hotel staff will provide personal service and offer authentic experiences for guests. They can also organize experiences that will allow guests to learn the secrets of Rome.

Location

This hotel in Rome sits at Piazza della Minerva 69 - a quiet, small square just behind the Pantheon. It's located in Rome's historical center, but a short distance away. The Trevi Fountain and Campo de' Fiori are within a 10-minute walk. The hotel logo was inspired by Bernini's statue of an elephant with an Egyptian obelisk at its center, located in the Piazza.

Service & Facilities

Each suite and room is uniquely designed to match the Renaissance-style building. They also feature the same references and clever details as the public spaces.

Of course, the luxury doesn't stop at the designs. Rivolta Carmignani is a renowned linen manufacturer based in Milan. They once provided the silks for the Orient Express. Guests can also expect to find luxury bath and hair products, as well as fine robes. Moreover, at check-in, each guest gets a "conductor" who is available 24 hours a day via WhatsApp.

During your stay, you can choose from three different restaurants. La Minerva Bar is located in the lobby, situated under a glass dome with marble columns. However, the Minerva marble sculpture nearby may prevent you from overindulging.

Gigi Rigolatto is a vibrant new restaurant inspired by Rivera, which will open in May. Rikas Hospitality Group has partnered with Paris Society to launch this exciting eatery. Additionally, Mimi Kakushi is a Japanese eatery inspired by 1920s Osaka, with some Western influences.

Backstory

The Orient Express La Minerva was built in 1620 at Fonseca Palace. It was named after the Portuguese family that first owned the building. The palace was turned into a luxurious hotel in 1811, and it became a popular destination for young aristocrats on the Grand Tour.

Stendhal and Melville both spent several months in the hotel to get inspiration for their Roman walking tours. George Sand also stayed for a few months. This is the first hotel in the Orient Express group. The La Dolce Vita line has relaunched a new route from Rome to Montalcino.

Moreover, inside the hotel, the lobby's carpets feature patterns reminiscent of the Pantheon. Additionally, painters have decorated the ceiling with colors reminiscent of Rome.

Rooms

There are 93 rooms and suites. Each piece showcases the unique nomadic style of Franco-Mexican artist and architect Hugo Toro. He designed each piece of furniture himself.

The aesthetic is timeless, yet deeply rooted in its location. Vintage record players sit in elegant briarwood cabinets. Murano glass lamps and hand-painted ceilings add the finishing touches.

Dining

From the moment you step inside, this place will amaze you. A statue of Minerva, in her marble frame, watches you as you drink your martini. This place has all the ingredients to become iconic within five seconds. Moreover, the rooftop restaurant can be a great place to enjoy an aperitivo. It offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Rome and is a perfect spot for making important decisions.

Gigi Giglatto curated the menu. It features Italian classics, such as linguine alle vongole, arancini, and tiramisù. The minibar is stocked with only local products.

Wellness

The hotel features a theme that emphasizes rejuvenation. In line with this, the focus on wellness is central to the overall guest experience.

In the 210-square-meter spa, guests will find traditional Ottoman baths. This is a nod both to ancient Roman bathing traditions and Eastern influences. Moreover, the first-floor fitness area and yoga studio offer a balance for the body and mind.

You can also book three flexible meeting rooms for private functions or corporate events. They are suitable for private gatherings, business meetings, and cultural events.

Area

You will find an obelisk in front of your hotel. Bernini created the elephant that holds it. Moreover, the Tiber and Piazza Navona are a short walk away.

Takeaway

In the heart of the eternal city, Orient Express La Minerva Hotel offers a Roman journey that blends intimacy, history, and luxury. The interiors and service reflect a reverence for the timeless charm that Rome has to offer.

This hotel is the perfect place to stay if you are visiting Rome for the first or second time. It provides an experience that is elegant, soulful, unforgettable, and an actual love letter.