Get ready to embark on a truly extraordinary journey, as the legendary Orient Express, renowned for its luxurious trains that traverse lands in quiet harmony and even a recently introduced sailing yacht, opens a brand new chapter: hotels! And what a debut it is – the magnificent Orient Express La Minerva, nestled in the very heart of Rome.
While the brand new hotel may be a fresh face, the building it calls home is anything but. Imagine stepping into a 17th-century palace, steeped in history and grandeur, right in the vibrant core of Rome! This isn’t just any location; the Orient Express La Minerva is situated in the iconic Piazza della Minerva, right amidst the awe-inspiring panorama of Roman history. It’s a perfect fusion: the glorious past of Rome meeting the thrilling future of luxury travel.
The minds behind this exquisite transformation have truly outdone themselves with the design, seamlessly blending classical elegance with contemporary style. It’s a space that truly embodies the ‘Orient Express Art of Travel’.
Now, let’s delve into the fascinating history of this remarkable structure. It was originally built in 1620 for a distinguished Portuguese family, the Fonsecas. Then, in 1811, it began its transformation into one of Rome’s most luxurious hotels, conveniently located near the Pantheon. It quickly became a magnet for aristocrats, artists, and intellectuals – a veritable hotspot for the who’s who of society at the time.
Imagine the famous guests who once graced its halls! The celebrated writer Herman Melville stayed there, and Stendhal, inspired by his visit, penned ‘Roman Walks’. Even George Sand spent a considerable amount of time there in 1855, and the hotel even made an appearance in Thomas Bernhard’s novel ‘Extinction’.
The opening of Orient Express La Minerva is a truly significant moment for the brand, tying in beautifully with the new La Dolce Vita Orient Express train. Envision the scene – where guests arrive by train after enjoying days of slow, calming travel, and then checking into an incredible, deeply historical palace! Both La Minerva and La Dolce Vita were designed to offer unparalleled access to Italy’s cultural treasures, making it an unbeatable experience for travellers.
Every single detail within the hotel has been meticulously crafted to offer guests a truly unique luxury experience. They’ve achieved a flawless blend of timeless elegance and modern refinement. So, whether you’re a history buff captivated by ancient Roman history or simply seeking an indulgent escape, this place genuinely has it all.
The genius behind the stunning design of the Orient Express La Minerva is the incredibly talented architect, Hugo Toro. He has masterfully blended Art Deco luxury with a sophisticated modern touch – and it’s absolutely incredible to see. Toro’s previous collaborations with Orient Express mean he possesses an innate understanding of how to maintain that historic feel while infusing it with a fresh, contemporary spirit.
The hotel officially opened its doors in April 2025, and stepping inside is a true celebration of the brand’s rich travel heritage. Guests here will discover luxurious textures, exquisite Art Deco-inspired details, and even original marble statues by the renowned Rinaldo Rinaldi. Essentially, Toro’s vision was to honour the past while giving it a truly modern and elegant twist.
For more information, visit the Orient Express La Minerva website here.
