The first hotel under the Orient Express brand officially opened for bookings Dec. 4, allowing discerning travelers to indulge in the brand’s high standards of services and amenities within a hotel environment. Orient Express La Minerva, in the historic Piazza della Minerva in Rome, Italy, was formerly known as Palazzo Fonesca and dates back to the 17^th century.

© Orient Express La Minerva

Arsenale SpA acquired the entire island site in 2021, comprehensively renovating and restoring the building with architect and interior designer Hugo Toro. Orient Express La Minerva spans 93 luxurious guestrooms, including 36 suites, four of which are signature suites. The Stendhal Suite, La Minerva Suite, Obelisco Suite and Orient Express Suite feature unique configurations and are the epitome of opulence.

All accommodations come with bespoke bathroom amenities; Rivolta Carmignani linen; a minibar with complimentary soft drinks, coffee and tea; and more.

© Orient Express La Minerva

Upon entering, guests can peruse La Minerva Bar, home to the building’s historic skylight and honoring the Roman goddess Minerva, which serves cocktails, Italian snacks and afternoon tea with pastries. An on-site rooftop restaurant and bar also graces the property, offering Mediterranean cuisine and craft cocktails. Voliera sits on the seventh floor, meaning guests can take in views of St. Peter’s Dome, Altare della Patria and Piazza della Minerva.

Guests are welcome to celebrate special occasions within the hotel’s Olimpo Ballroom, adorned with Murano chandeliers and 12 marble statues by Rinaldo Rinaldi. There’s also three additional meeting rooms available.

The hotel opens spring 2025.