In 1908, E.M. Forster imagined a pensione in Florence for his romantically titled novel A Room With A View. Meanwhile in Rome, at that same point in history, the real-life Maritti family were hosting non-fiction guests in the Veneziana room of their stunning palazzo, which overlooks the Temple of Mars Ultor and the Roman Imperial Forum (AKA the Forum of Augustus).

Nearly 100 year later, in 1999 the Maritti family opened another nine rooms in their historic, eighteenth century home to welcome more guests. Largely thanks to word-of-mouth, each year since the family has welcomed a continually growing stream of visitors including families, couples, mixed groups and discerning single travellers. Maritti family members, including Gianluca, Pierfrancesco and their father, still live on other floors of the palazzo or elsewhere in Monti.

terrazzo Residenza Maritti

Monti is smack-bang in the centre of Rome, the city’s most ancient suburb and the birthplace of Julius Caesar. The majestic Vittorio Emanuele building, the Colosseum, Piazza Venezia and Trajan’s Column are all part of the spectacular 360° vista that guests enjoy from the palazzo’s rooftop terrace. Maritti family members are on hand to orient you in 2000 years of history as you gaze with a private bird’s eye view over the archaeological sites and excavations below. They also provide their guests with highly personalised services including family-friendly guided tours and innovative itineraries.

Room - Residenza Maritti

Aside from the panorama, what charmed me most of all were the palazzo’s three ‘aunty rooms.’ These three of the nine guest rooms are dedicated to three Corteggiani sisters known as Zia Elena, Zia Olga and Zia Bianca. Each of their rooms is authentically furnished according to a historical period and in line with their personal interests. For example, Zia Elena loved music, Zia Bianca was a painter, and Zia Olga was a bit monarchic. Zia Olga’s room features an autographed portrait of Italy’s king Umberto II (1904-1983). These intimate touches are consistent throughout the entire palazzo. The stairwells display original, turn-of-the-century photos showing vintage street scenes from just outside the front door. Balancing the authentic features, all ten guest rooms are also entirely modern in that they have private bathrooms and wifi access.

There is a kitchen on each of the two floors dedicated to guests. This adds to the autonomous ‘home-stay’ or bed and breakfast feel. If you prefer to eat out, however, not only are you right in the middle of town but the family also runs Lupigiada. A hip enoteca with art shows, live music, and ancient Roman brickwork, Lupigiada is right next door to Residenza Maritti and open on weekends.

In 1908 E.M. Forster’s characters wanted a room with a view of the River Arno in Florence. Then as now I’d prefer an entire palazzo with a view of the Eternal City’s glorious centre. These days why not make the most of both? Imagine reading A Room with a View on the Maritti terrace as the summer sun sets right in front of you and a glass of wine sparkles in your hand…

book now button

Address

Via Tor De’Conti n° 17 – Roma
(Venezia / Fori Imperiali / Colosseo)