Residenza Ruspoli Bonaparte

Palazzo Ruspoli, located on Via Condotti, just a couple of minutes from the Spanish Steps, is one of the most prestigious Renaissance buildings in Rome. Throughout the years, it’s been the home of some of Rome’s most prominent families, but since 1776, it has been the residence of the Ruspoli family. Their crest is found in the beautiful stone floors of the palace, but the most famous part is the palace’s main staircase, built in 1640 by the Caetani family, and arrayed in four flights of 30 steps each, ten feet long and two feet wide. It’s constructed entirely of monolithic marble steps and is considered one of the four wonders of Rome, with antique busts of former emperors and ancient gods decorated the walls along the stairs. 

In 1709, Francesco Marescotti Ruspoli was made a prince by Pope Clement XI. A few centuries later, in 1948, as a consequence of the creation of the Italian Republic, Italian nobility ceased to exist. But as the Ruspoli prince title had been awarded the family by the Pope, ruler of the Vatican and thus not officially part of Italy, they – together with thirteen other families, including House of Borgia, House of Borghese, House of Barberini and House of Colonna – were allowed continued use of their royal status. 

The family’s illustrious past is noticeable already in the name of the B&B that is currently housed in a part of the palace, as in 1830, Napoleon III lived here. His mother, Hortense de Beauhamais, also lived here for several years, which is why some of the rooms have French-styled ceilings, while the rest of the palazzo is decorated with traditional Italian cassette ceilings. Another historical celebrity who lived here for an extended period of time was Georg Friderich Händel, who was the “Kapellmeister” to the Ruspoli family. Today, the palace is owned by Prince Pietro and Letizia Ruspoli. 

Staf is on site during the day. 

To compare architecture with fashion might be a cliché but nevertheless serves its purpose whe describing this B&B experience. To stay here is like being dressed in the finest garments of the highest quality while not compromising comfort. It’s as elegant as it is relaxed. Nearby are many of Rome’s most iconic restaurants, such as the classic Trattoria al Moro (also a favourite in the Ruspoli family).

The bed and breakfast has only four rooms. All suites are decorated with historical furniture and beautiful artworks. The Suite Emperor Bonaparte also comes with its own terrace, which makes it tempting to just stay at home with a bottle of wine and some pizza, enjoying the historical beauty hidden in the middle of central Rome. 

Residenza Ruspoli Bonaparte