The Palazzo Durazzo-Pallavicini, a former palazzo in Genoa, has undergone a spectacular transformation and is now a sparkling 5-star hotel. From a stately noble residence, it has become a luxurious oasis for discerning travelers, with prices ranging between 400 and 1000 euros per night. And you know what they say: a good night's sleep is priceless, but staying in this palace comes pretty close!
But let's talk about those rooms! When booking a suite, you can enjoy the best minibar experience you've ever had. And the best part? The minibar in the suite is complimentary and generously stocked with the most refined gin, wine, and sparkling bubbles. So leave your worries behind and enjoy a refreshing drink while relaxing in the luxury of your private chambers. Cheers to an unforgettable stay!
The Durazzo Doges
The Durazzo Doges were known for their patronage of art and architecture. They stimulated the construction of magnificent palaces and churches in Genoa, and under their rule, numerous cultural and artistic works were produced. They were involved in political intrigues and power struggles, which was typical of the political situation in Italy during that period. Not much remains of the Durazzo family today, except a few stately palaces, which are being converted into hotels and museums. The Palazzo Durazzo 5-star hotel that opened in the summer of 2023, is a splendid example. It does not have a restaurant (yet), but I wouldn't be surprised if that is in the plans for the nearby future, it certainly promises to be something special.
Palazzo Durazzo-Pallavicini
The building (not to be confused with the Rollipalazzo Durazzo on Via Balbi) served in the past as a residence for two prominent noble families, the Durazzo's and the Pallavicini's, influential families, who played a significant role in the political and social history of Genoa.
The impressive Baroque building dates back to the 17th century. Throughout its history, Palazzo Durazzo-Pallavicini has had various functions. It served as a residence and has also been used as a venue for cultural events, exhibitions, and receptions.
In 2023, Palazzo Durazzo-Pallavicini underwent a remarkable transformation under the guidance of architect Emanuela Brignone Cattaneo. The building was renovated and transformed into an exclusive super deluxe hotel with twelve rooms. The hotel preserves the magnificent architectural features of the original palazzo, such as the lavishly decorated facade, elegant salons, and refined interiors. It now offers a luxurious accommodation experience for guests seeking a unique stay in Genoa.
Interestingly, the hotel has two entrances. The current main entrance is at street level on Via Gramsci, directly opposite the port of Genoa, the guest rooms and the elegant bar and reception, however, are located on the third floor of the palace. Paradoxically, now the back entrance of the palace, used to be the main entrance, but is located in one of the most notorious and less desirable streets of the city of Genoa. This peculiarity adds an interesting and unexpected dynamic to the hotel's location.
12 extraordinary suites
There are two suites on the 3rd floor with beautiful frescoes on the ceilings, which reach almost 23 feet in height. One of these frescoes depicts the doge of Genoa as Neptune, the Roman god of the sea. With the inscription "The sea all around is calm" in Latin, it refers to the powerful rule of Barnaba Durazzo (1415), the first doge of Genoa from the Durazzo clan.
One of the most impressive rooms awaits you on the top floor at the rear of the building. This room is elegantly decorated in white and has the shape of a large seashell. This unique and stylish design radiates a sense of elegance and exclusivity.
Palazzo Durazzo-Pallavicini continues to embrace references to the sea and maritime elements. At the front of the building, there is a room of which the ceiling is entirely decorated with a mosaic of seashells. This creates an atmosphere of an ocean floor, providing a unique and enchanting ambiance. This room at the front of the palace is not suitable for tall men or women due to its low ceiling.
Photo Gallery Palazzo Durazzo
The masterpiece La Cupola
The suites are extraordinarily luxurious, where every detail is meticulously attended to, and wandering from room to room, I don't know if I can come up with enough superlatives. My favorite rooms are probably the L'Oriente with 22 feet ceilings at the back and, and of course, the white suite La Cupola also at the rear of the building. Rooms that have a view of the harbor at the front include The Grand Suite Il Doge on two levels with a jacuzzi, Il Quattro Fiumi, La Cappella (with its own chapel), and Le Conchiglie. These rooms and details showcase the attention to detail and artistic beauty of the architect Emanuela Brignone.
Emanuela Brignone Cattaneo
Emanuela Brignone, a renowned architect, has created a masterpiece of architectural dreams in the Palazzo Durazzo-Pallavicini. She ensured that the palace's original gracefulness was preserved, while adding elements important to the history of the Durazzo family.
Brignone has ensured that the hotel's design reflects the rich trade with the Far East, maritime dominance, and the port that made Genoa a global hub in the 16th and 17th centuries. She cleverly integrated historical elements into the modern design, bringing together the past and the present.
As an experienced architect, Brignone has an impressive portfolio with various projects, including the Hotel Punta San Martino, the Valentina Moncada Gallery, Palazzo Lomellino, Castello di Gabiano, and the Biblioteca Durazzo. With her expertise and creative vision, she has turned Palazzo Durazzo-Pallavicini into an architectural masterpiece, beautifully integrating the history of the Durazzo family into the design.
The only problem I have with the hotel is the fact that it isn't located in, what I would call the best part of town, although close in proximity to the Via Garibaldi and the main Rolli Palaces the location is a bit murky, especially at night. But as long as you are prepared to take a taxi back to your hotel at night, there shouldn't be a problem.
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