Opened by César Ritz in 1894, the St Regis Rome is a relative newcomer compared to some of its neighbors in the Eternal City. But, with its arrival near Piazza della Repubblica complete with top-hatted doormen just before the turn of the century, it ushered in a new era of lavishness. Today, it is every inch the symbol of la dolce vita, with its latest marvelous iteration from the hands of design luminary Pierre-Yves Rochon. Playing host to the hotel’s most distinguished guests over its 130-year history, The Royal Suite lives up to its name, with interiors created from bronze, travertine and silk. Aristocratic Roman textiles, Louis XVI furniture and sculptures add to the air of nobility. The marble dining table has enough space to gather 12 friends for a special St Regis Midnight Supper, all served by a private kitchen as the suite’s grand piano tinkles.