Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá: The 5-Star Resort Built on the Roman Empress's Estate

110 rooms, including the extraordinary Vatican Suite, a Clarins-branded spa, and high-end dining: Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá is the regal retreat attracting all the gourmands in Rome.

Follie's photos: Alberto Blasetti

Roman empresses were accustomed to the luxuries of royal life: exquisite dining, healing spas, opulent furnishings, and majestic gardens. That was hundreds of years ago, but today luxury is guaranteed in only a handful of places around the world, far from prying eyes. Or is it? Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá, one of the gems of Meliá Hotels International, is one of those rare places, literally embedded within Rome.

The philosophy

An urban 5-star resort right in the heart of the city, just a stone's throw from the heavily visited Vatican City, Piazza Navona, and the Pantheon. Yet, when you see it, it feels like a green oasis surrounded by sprawling Mediterranean gardens. A building suspended in time, between contemporary Rome and the Eternal City. This temple of the good life, in fact, is set on none other than the ruins of the historic villa of the eponymous Roman empress.

Now, it offers something new that adds even more value: starting this year, its fine dining restaurant, "Follie," will be led by chef Alfonso D’Auria, whose significant international experience, especially in China, brings a perfect balance of tradition and modernity to the menu.

The property

“Nomen Omen," the Latins used to say, and Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá truly lives up to its name: it is indeed built on the ruins of the historic villa of the Roman empress. The property, renovated in 2012, covers 9,000 square meters with a design that fully embraces the site's history. In addition to its internal gardens, which offer unique views of the city, one of its standout features is a scenic and inviting outdoor pool—an uncommon amenity among Roman hotels.

Rooms & Suites

With a total of 110 rooms, Villa Agrippina offers guests the utmost in luxury and personalized service. The suites are the crown jewels of the property, boasting expansive private gardens, pools, and comfortable whirlpool tubs. The Renaissance Suite, at 50 square meters, is an elegant abode that reflects the artistic spirit of the Renaissance. Here, guests can fully immerse themselves in the historical grandeur of Rome.

The Vatican Suite, with its impeccably designed 70 square meters, boasts a panoramic terrace of 125 square meters, with the added luxury of a private hot tub, sun loungers, and a spectacular view of St. Peter's Basilica. The Panorama Suite, on the other hand, offers a breathtaking view of the Eternal City. The 111-square-meter terrace, featuring a private jacuzzi, is the focal point of this suite, offering a unique view of Rome and its most famous landmarks. The Emperor Nero Suite, as its name suggests, is a residence of utmost exclusivity, featuring a private gym, a spacious dining area, a bedroom with a king-size bed, and vaulted ceilings that evoke the classical style of ancient Rome.

Finally, the Agrippina Private Pool Suite is the crown jewel of Villa Agrippina, offering 70 square meters of space and a "personal" garden of 200 square meters. The 32-square-meter infinity pool is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate under the Roman sun. To complete its range of services, Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá offers the Clarins Spa, a wellness oasis bathed in natural light, perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of daily Roman life. Featuring Clarins & My Blend treatments, the spa offers a unique experience that combines plant-based formulas with advanced technology, ensuring instant results. A qualified team is always available to advise and guide guests in choosing the most suitable treatment, creating a personalized journey tailored to their needs.

Dining options

Follie is the culinary gem of Villa Agrippina, a fine dining restaurant that opened in September 2022, offering a poetic and interactive experience for all the senses. Chef Alfonso D’Auria, born in 1988, leads the kitchen with expertise, celebrating the authentic flavors of the Mediterranean, enhanced by top-quality ingredients and meticulous attention to detail.

Guests can choose "The Grand Mediterranean"—a six-course tasting menu, "The Small Mediterranean" (four courses with wine pairing), or select from the à la carte menu.

Next to Follie, you'll find Amaro Lobby Bar & Lounge, an elegant cocktail bar set in a converted church, where you can enjoy sophisticated cocktails and light snacks in a uniquely atmospheric setting. And for an outdoor dining experience, Gala Pool Bar & Restaurant offers a casual menu nestled in the beauty of the hotel's gardens.

Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá, much like Rome, combines timeless elegance, exquisite cuisine, and total wellness, turning every stay into an everlasting memory.