OverviewThe St. Regis Florence was originally home to the noble Giuntini family. In the second half of the 18th Century, Florence undertook a citywide renovation, at which time the former palace was converted into a hotel. Overlooking the Arno River, and located just steps away from iconic landmarks like the Uffizi Gallery and Academia, the hotel is emblematic of the city's rich history reflecting the crucial stages of social and architectural development in the Tuscan capital. Recorded by Giorgio Vasari in "Lives of the Best Italian Architects, Painters and Sculptors," the Giuntini family palace was projected by famed Florentine architect, Filippo Brunelleschi around 1400. In the second half of the 1800s, the palace was given over to the Popoleschi family, relations of the noble Tornabuonis. Towards the end of the century, Florence underwent a period of architectural renewal, at which time the former palace was converted into what was initially named the Grand Hotel Royal de la Paix. Its splendor has, since the conversion, drawn scores of renowned guests and overseen many of the city's historic events. It was a stopping point for Queen Victoria, the Marajà Chuttraputti di Kolapoor and his successor, Rajaram Chuttraputti, for whom the Indian Bridge or Ponte all'Indiano was named. Leland Stanford Jr., namesake of Stanford University, was also a visitor. Throughout the 20th Century, many notable families and famous writers who resided north of the Alps sojourned to Florence's large hotels, and they often selected The St. Regis Florence for their celebrations. This dignified past is reflected in the elegant and elaborate décor of the hotel. The Winter Garden and Sala delle Feste are especially notable event venues. The latter is a turn of the century, French-style ballroom that draws inspiration from the White Room in the nearby Pitti Palace. The Art Deco-style Winter Garden was realized around 1922 in accordance with the designs of Enzio Giovannozzi. After extensively researching the architectural drawings of Florence's famous Palazzo Davanzati and Palazzo Strozzi, the hotel finalized a restoration plan in 1990. Meticulous renewal techniques were employed to accurately emulate the building's original architectural and cultural integrity. Today, The St. Regis Florence reflects the ingenious marriage of a rich artistic past with the vibrant present, creating the optimal setting for a personal and unrivaled Florentine adventure. |
