Step Inside History: The Saloni della Principessa at Palazzo Brancaccio in Rome
At Michelle Durpetti Events, we pride ourselves on uncovering extraordinary spaces for unforgettable celebrations—and the Saloni della Principessa inside Palazzo Brancaccio in Rome might just be one of the most enchanting we’ve ever experienced.
Nestled in the heart of the Eternal City, Palazzo Brancaccio is the last princely residence built in Rome, a place where elegance, opulence, and living history come together. Our private tour of this majestic venue left us absolutely inspired—and we’re honored to share its story with you.
This location is not only a hidden gem for those planning a destination wedding in Italy, but also an ideal setting for everything from milestone birthdays and anniversaries to welcome parties and elegant cocktail receptions.
Whether you’re celebrating in Rome or simply seeking event inspiration, these are the kinds of places we love to unearth for our clients.
Saloni della Principessa: A Palace of Roman Nobility
Built at the end of the 19th century by American heiress Mary Elizabeth Bradhurst Field and her daughter Elizabeth, who married Prince Salvatore Brancaccio, the palazzo was designed by renowned architects Gaetano Koch and Luca Carimini. It still reflects the grandeur of Rome’s noble past—and offers exclusive access to those lucky enough to host an event here.
Set atop the Oppian Hill in the Esquiline district (one of Rome’s famed seven hills), the palace’s grounds feature a romantic Nymphaeum, complete with a fish-filled fountain, ancient statues, and palm-fringed gardens. According to legend, this is the very spot where Nero watched Rome burn.
A Tour Through the Saloni della Principessa
From the moment you ascend the grand staircase to the piano nobile, you are immersed in over 11,000 square feet of preserved beauty. The rooms remain furnished exactly as they were thanks to Princess Fernanda Brancaccio, who lovingly maintained the estate until her passing in 2014.
Each salon tells a different story:
• Baldaquin Hall: The most symbolic space in the palace, this grand hall showcases the Brancaccio family crest beneath a royal canopy, surrounded by portraits and frescoes of family castles and Roman nobility.
• Salon of the Lions: A vibrant red-satin-lined room with golden accents and carved lion-head furnishings, this space includes a striking bust of Princess Elizabeth—“Bessie”—a social icon of her time.
• Boudoir of Mirrors: One of our favorite discoveries. This intimate room is filled with miniature portraits of the family throughout the centuries. When you gaze into the mirrors, your reflection joins theirs, a poetic detail that reminds us how timeless family and legacy truly are.
• Library: A warm, intellectual escape, with towering shelves, rare books, and original documents that chronicle the Brancaccio family’s lineage—including powerful cardinals and noblewomen once celebrated by Boccaccio himself.
• Hall of Tapestries: Luxurious and storied, this room displays 17th-century French tapestries depicting tales of Cyrus the Great. The blend of Eastern legend, Italian nobility, and American influence is palpable and breathtaking.
• Dining Room + Bridge Parlor: These cozy, intimate spaces once hosted family evenings filled with music and warmth. A secret iron bridge connects the palace to the garden below, offering one of the most cinematic entrances we’ve ever seen.
A Truly Bespoke Roman Experience
Saloni della Principessa offers exclusive private tours, as well as the opportunity to host events that truly feel like a step back in time. Whether you’re planning a chic welcome cocktail party before your Roman wedding, a romantic anniversary dinner, or a milestone birthday surrounded by grandeur—this venue delivers in every sense.
Our genuine thanks to the family for the private tour and the time with us, we are forever appreciative!
All photos in this blog are by the incredibly talented Collin Pierson Photography, who captured every detail of this remarkable visit.
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Looking to plan an unforgettable event in Rome, Italy?
At Michelle Durpetti Events, we specialize in destination events across Italy—from Florence to Puglia to the heart of the Eternal City. Let us bring your vision to life, with timeless beauty, intentional design, and seamless planning.
Contact us to begin planning your Roman celebration today.
Photos courtesy of Collin Pierson Photography
