There’s something magical about sleeping in a hotel room that pays homage to a destination’s local history. It’s more than just a place to rest; it’s an immersive journey through time, where every corner whispers tales of the past. This is especially true in a Dimora Storica, an ancient building recognized as part of Italy’s historical and cultural heritage.
Among the properties of this kind in the Gulf of Poets is Grand Hotel Portovenere. Once home to the 17th-century Convento di San Francesco, the elegant building now hosts a boutique haven for travelers seeking serenity and authentic experiences between Liguria and Tuscany.
While all rooms have details and reminders of the Gulf of Poets‘ history, landscapes and traditions, two rooms in particular pay tribute to the ancient convent. They are called Studio Botanicus and Studio Scriptorium.
Studio Botanicus overlooks an internal courtyard with majestic pepper, tangerine, and lemon trees. This is where the monks once cultivated their gardens and studied the healing properties of plants.
You find hints of the monks’ ancient botanical cards inside this room, from the choice of neutral colors to the motif of the wallpapers, from the custom-made furniture and upholstery to the balcony’s themed grit, which is a classic of Ligurian porticoes.
Studio Scriptorium pays homage to the convent’s Scriptorium, the writing room where monastic scribes diligently penned manuscripts in an atmosphere of quiet contemplation.
The living area features a writing desk reminiscent of the Scriptorium’s solemn elegance. Pastel hues and subtle motifs adorn the furnishings, inviting you to immerse yourself in creativity and inspiration.
As you gaze out the windows, you’re treated to a breathtaking panorama of the Gulf of Poets, a timeless backdrop of Lerici, Tellaro, and the majestic Apuan Alps.
Would you like to know more about the concepts behind the fusion of local traditions, history and nature in the interior design of Grand Hotel Portovenere? Don’t miss our interviews with architect Virginia Neri!
