InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG) has announced plans to open InterContinental in Rome, as the luxury hotel brand returns to Italy.

Set to open in 2022, the announcement marks a sign of confidence in the Italian tourism industry during this challenging time and comes just weeks after the signing of Six Senses Rome.

The hotel will be located on the iconic Via Veneto, in the Ludovisi area of the city, close to the Villa Borghese. The property – which will include 160 rooms and suites, a restaurant, bar, spa, and public areas – will be restored to create a sense of discrete, modern luxury.

Dating back to the early 1900s and designed by architect Carlo Busiri Vici in the neo-renaissance style, the palazzo building was originally home to ambassadors staying in Rome, opening as a hotel in 1993.

The property’s close proximity to the Galleria Borghese, Spanish Steps, and Trevi Fountain will allow guests to explore the city’s wealth of art and history.

IHG joins a strong group including US-based fund Oaktree; Westmont Hospitality Group – a strategic investment partner and operator; and UniCredit S.p.A – the project’s senior lending bank.

The project is held by a newly established real estate investment fund managed by Milan-based Castello SGR.

“The signing of an InterContinental in Rome represents an important moment in the growth of our luxury portfolio and brand presence across Europe,” comments Willemijn Geels, Vice President of Development, Europe, IHG.

“In these challenging times, this signing shows the continued trust our owners and partners place in IHG and our brands. We are delighted to partner with Oaktree Capital and Westmont Hospitality Group, and we look forward to offering InterContinental guests a rich and unforgettable experience in the Eternal City.”

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