The Orient Express Just Opened it’s FIRST Hotel in Rome – La Minerva
Get ready, fashionistas, because the legendary Orient Express is chugging its way into the hotel scene!
Yes, you heard it right! The iconic luxury train company, now under the fabulous French hospitality brand Accor, has just unveiled its very first hotel, and it’s a total masterpiece. Nestled in a stunning 17th-century palazzo right in the heart of Rome, say hello to the Orient Express La Minerva! Prepare to swoon over its 93 rooms and 36 suites, each boasting a completely unique layout and size – talk about bespoke chic!
Location, location, location! Situated at Piazza della Minerva 69, a spot that has buzzed with creatives and travelers for decades, this hotel puts you mere steps away from the breathtaking Pantheon and other must-see landmarks in the Eternal City. To bring this historic palazzo to life with a modern twist, Orient Express tapped the visionary artist-architect Hugo Toro. He’s masterfully blended contemporary flair while honoring the building’s Roman soul. The moment you step into the towering lobby, you’ll be greeted by stoic columns, earthy tones, pops of vibrant greenery, and the most incredible patterned flooring. And gazing over it all? A magnificent 1854 marble statue of Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom, the hotel’s namesake, sculpted by the talented Rinaldo Rinaldi.
Toro’s incredible eye for detail continues into the rooms and suites, each a stylish nod to the golden age of train travel. Think chic bespoke bedside trunks and exquisite wood details that echo the elegance of the Orient Express carriages. Even the bedding is pure luxury – the same dreamy linens from Rivolta Carmignani you’d find on the train! And to gently remind you that you’re in the captivating Eternal City, each space features a delicate, hand-painted motif of the Roman sky above the bed.
The suites? Oh là là! One is even named after Stendhal, the French writer who was a frequent guest in the palazzo’s former life. And when it comes to dining, prepare to be spoiled for choice with not one, but three incredible restaurants. In the lobby, under a stunning glass roof and surrounded by original marble columns, you’ll find La Minerva Bar – though that watchful Minerva statue might just inspire a little moderation! Head up to the rooftop in May for Gigi Rigolatto, a vibrant eatery inspired by the Riviera with 360-degree views, brought to you by Rikas Hospitality Group and the fabulous Paris Society brand. Later this year, get ready for Mimi Kakushi, a Japanese hotspot that will whisk you away to 1920s Osaka with a dash of Western flair.
But wait, there’s more! Orient Express isn’t stopping there. They’re also launching the Orient Express Palazzo Donà Giovannelli in Venice later this year. Plus, their new La Dolce Vita trip will take passengers on a dreamy journey through Tuscany aboard one of their iconic locomotives. It looks like Orient Express is officially on a roll, and we are absolutely here for this stylish new chapter! Who’s ready to book a stay?
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