Situated in the historic Piazza della Minerva, in the heart of Rome and backing onto the ancient Pantheon, Orient Express La Minerva has set its highly-anticipated opened for Spring 2025. The ubër luxury property will be the first hotel operated by Orient Express.
Orient Express La Minerva is composed of 93 luxurious rooms, ranging from 25 to 235 square metres (including 36 suites), with 4 Signature Suites boasting spectacular views of the Pantheon and the picturesque Piazza della Minerva with its characteristic Bernini elephant.
Formerly known as Palazzo Fonseca and dating back to the 17th century, Orient Express La Minerva occupies an entire island site and was acquired in 2021 by Arsenale SpA. Following a comprehensive renovation, the building’s interiors and historical features have been meticulously designed and restored under direction of Franco-Mexican Artist architect and interior designer Hugo Toro.
“This milestone proudly marks the long-anticipated arrival of our first Orient Express hotel – Orient Express La Minerva,” Gilda Perez-Alvarado, CEO Orient Express, commented.”Nestled in the heart of Rome, it is not only a destination for the most discerning travellers 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.
“It is with great pleasure to officially introduce the first asset to Orient Express’ iconic portfolio of hotels, trains and sailing yachts.”
For perspective, how close Orient Express La Minerva is from the Pantheon
Originally built in 1620 as the residence of the aristocratic Portuguese Fonseca family, the historic building was transformed into a hotel for the first time in 1811. It soon it became a favourite destination for prominent artists and intellectuals during the Grand Tour, hosting figures such as Stendhal, Vittorio Alfieri and Herman Melville; and even hosted a visit from Pope Pius IX. The restoration work reflects a project rooted in the history of Rome, inspired by Roman domus and the riches of the Eternal City, combining Art Déco style with contemporary elegance, in perfect harmony with the mysterious identity of the Orient Express journey.
Upon visiting, guests can savour the allure of La Minerva Bar, home to the building’s historic skylight and serving as a tribute to Minerva, the Roman goddess of art and craftsmanship who inspired the project.Meanwhile, Voliera, the rooftop restaurant and bar, offers Mediterranean cuisine and artfully crafted cocktails against a breathtaking panoramic backdrop. Nearby include views of the domes of Sant’Ivo alla Sapienza and Saint Peter’s Basilica, the Altare della Patria, and the tower of the Quirinal. The imposing statue of the deity welcomes guests in its original 1854 form, sculpted by Rinaldo Rinaldi, a disciple of Canova. The spa evokes the atmosphere and rituals of Ottoman baths, a traditional place of wellness and purification.”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,” states Giampaolo Ottazzi, General Manager of Orient Express Hotels Italy. “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, now tied to the allure of our country and positioning Italy at the centre as a privileged destination for sophisticated and demanding tourists.”
Nightly rates including breakfast for a classic room start from €1,000; for a Suite: from €2,500; for a Signature Suite: from €3,500 up to €15,000.
Reservations are available online for arrivals commencing 1 April 2025.
See laminerva.orient-express.com.
Renders courtesy of Orient Express La Minerva.
