Overview
Here, everything unfolds between a historic glass roof and a rooftop overlooking the Pantheon. This rare duo in Rome sets the tone for the Orient Express La Minerva.
The address is clear: Piazza della Minerva 69, in the historic centre. The stay revolves around two distinct scenes. La Minerva Bar welcomes guests in the evening beneath the glass roof. On the rooftop, Gigi Rigolatto presents an Italian menu alongside his first Bellini bar.
The hotel boasts a 5-star rating and is distinguished as a Palace. Its name evokes the Orient-Express, the international luxury train established in 1883. The Orient-Express aesthetic reached its zenith in the 1920s, with René Lalique among the associated decorators.
Choose this establishment for a view of Rome from above, then experience it beneath glass.
History & Heritage
According to the Atout France Palace registry, the establishment is rated 5 stars and distinguished as a Palace.
In terms of cultural context, public sources primarily refer to the world of the Orient-Express. According to Wikipedia FR, the Orient-Express is an international luxury train created in 1883. This source also states that the line connected Paris and Vienna from 1883, and Venice from 1919. Constantinople, officially renamed Istanbul in 1930, is subsequently mentioned. According to Wikipedia FR, in the 1920s, the 'Orient-Express' style reached its peak. Furthermore, Wikipedia FR notes that the daily Direct-Orient-Express service to Istanbul and Athens ceased in 1977.
Architecture & Design
The Michelin Guide places La Minerva Bar beneath the historic glass roof of the building.
The same guide also mentions a rooftop restaurant and bar with views of the neighbouring Pantheon and the skyline of Rome.
The In-House Experience
Orient Express La Minerva is located at Piazza della Minerva, 69, 00186 Rome, IT.
Its coordinates are 41.897727 and 12.47758.
The Michelin Guide references it under the name Orient Express La Minerva.
The stay revolves around La Minerva Bar, beneath the historic glass roof, and the rooftop facing the neighbouring Pantheon.
Dining
The Michelin Guide highlights a rooftop associated with the hotel, featuring Gigi Rigolatto and an Italian menu. The signature offering is clear: 'fresh homemade pasta and Gigi’s first Bellini bar.' The same guide also mentions La Minerva Bar: 'evening drinks at La Minerva Bar under the building’s historic skylight.' Another Michelin mention refers to a rooftop restaurant and bar, serving Mediterranean cuisine and cocktails, with views of the Pantheon and the skyline of Rome.
Just Steps Away
The rooftop restaurant and bar offers a view of the Pantheon and the skyline of Rome.
Practical Information
- **Address**: Piazza della Minerva, 69, 00186 Rome, IT - **Coordinates**: 41.897727, 12.47758 - **Rating**: 5 stars - **Distinction**: Palace
Our Verdict
Orient Express La Minerva stands out for its central Roman address, its 5-star rating, its Palace distinction, La Minerva Bar beneath a historic glass roof, and a rooftop with views towards the Pantheon.
