There is an almost competitive drive to create hotels that are not only beautiful, but also original, innovative, and deeply rooted in their local context. At the new Corinthia in Rome, the approach is one of classic hospitality, with a strong focus on comfort and discretion.
The location is exceptional: directly opposite Montecitorio, home to Parliament, and just moments from Via del Corso and Piazza di Spagna. Step into the bar or restaurant and you are almost guaranteed to spot a minister or two, who make little effort to remain unnoticed.
Until 1961, this 1920s building served as the Bank of Italy’s representative headquarters. After changing hands several times up to 2000, it stood empty for years before being acquired by Reuben Brothers in 2019 to create Italy’s first Corinthia (with Lake Como and Puglia projects already announced). During its transformation, the building was meticulously restored to its original form through detailed historical and archival research.
At its heart lies the grand council hall on the piano nobile, featuring frescoes by Giulio Bargellini celebrating prosperity, a ceiling decorated with Italian coins spanning from Etruscan times to the early 20th century, geometric polychrome mosaics, and doorframes adorned with busts of Italian luminaries ranging from Marco Polo to Alessandro Volta.
The 60 rooms are defined by a sense of space, natural light, and marble-clad bathrooms. As room categories increase, so too does the level of detail: intricate inlays, finer materials, and increasingly generous living areas, culminating in four themed suites with private terraces. The Arte Suite overlooks the Vatican, while the Theodoli Suite, located on the first floor, incorporates the former council hall as its living space. Each room is equipped with a Dyson hairdryer, a garment steamer, and a generous selection of books on art, culture, and history.
The most playful element of the project is its culinary offering, led by Carlo Cracco. At Viride, an intimate 28-seat fine dining restaurant, his signature dishes—such as caramelised Russian salad—are featured as part of a ten-course tasting menu. At the more relaxed Piazzetta bistro, guests can choose from Roman classics such as cacio e pepe and carbonara, reinterpreted with a lighter touch using siphoned egg. Breakfast is served à la carte at the table, and for something more indulgent, the soft egg with Parmigiano Reggiano and guanciale is a standout.
The spa occupies the former bank vault, where the royal Italian family’s jewels were stored in 1946 when Italy became a Republic. Today, in place of gold, it offers wellbeing, with a journey inspired by the ancient Roman baths—tepidarium, calidarium, and frigidarium—alongside beauty and relaxation rituals using botanical products by Skin to Seed and advanced treatments developed by plastic surgeon Yannis Alexandrides.
There is something about Rome that always lifts the spirits: the warmth of its people. At the Corinthia, guests are welcomed with genuine smiles and attentive service, from the entrance to reception, the restaurant, and housekeeping. The team’s pride in their work is evident throughout, creating an atmosphere that feels both inviting and sincere.
A final tip: take a moment to look up. The ceilings alone are worth it—adorned with stucco, gold leaf, frescoes, and opulent hand-blown glass chandeliers by Sogni di Cristallo.
*article previously published on IlSole24Ore