The Palazzo Dama is a beacon of charm in the historic center of Rome a few steps away from Piazza del Popolo. The best way to describe the hotel is to imagine your dream house in terms of location, design, and atmosphere, then to place it in the center of the Eternal City, and open it to a group of like-minded people (whether on business or vacation).
Upon arrival at the reception desk of this boutique hotel, you are immediately welcomed by a Warhol Campbell’s soup dress. It sets the tone for this location, which is totally infused with contemporary art.
Photo by Oberto Gili
The bar with, an historic staircase in its middle, is the perfect place to rest after a long day of work or of city exploration. City dwellers and young professionals alike seem to fit perfectly in with this timeless alcove far from the hassles of daily life.
If the weather permits (which wasn’t the case during our stay) you should indulge in the outside swimming pool and patio garden. There the true magic of Rome comes to life and the aperitivi can be sipped and enjoyed until the late hours of the night especially on Thursdays and Fridays when the landmark Parisian nightclub, Raspoutine, in the lower floor of the hotel comes to life.
Palazzo Dama’s version of the Dolce Vita is definitely meant for a younger generation with taste and means and is an ideal way to discover Roman style and French elegance. The staff is young and friendly and is always there to remind you that the Palazzo is a place of Epicurean marvels.
The restaurant offers a very enjoyable “foodie” experience and serves great Roman classics with a twist. I was particularly impressed by their Avocado-based purée and ceviche which is probably the best I have ever had.
Photo by Oberto Gili
The rooms are infused with this same classic-meets-modern aesthetic. The bathrooms are luxurious and are meant to remind you of the antique tradition of Roman baths, while incorporating all the high tech amenities that you love to discove. (I do have, however, one strong recommendation. Make sure you ask for a room on the first or second floors and avoid the third floor where the only natural light comes from tiny oeil de boeuf windows.)
Palazzo Dama has succeeded in putting Rome’s multi-layered historical reality at the heart of its style by evoking the Roman Empire, the church dominated Baroque epoch as well as Post-War Rome as the capital of Italy.
