Nestled in the heart of the Eternal City, Kolbe Hotel Rome offers a truly unforgettable experience. In this exclusive interview with MD Destinations, we speak with Carlo Izzo, the General Manager who has been instrumental in transforming this historic property into a luxurious haven for travellers. Discover the hotel’s rich history, unique features, and commitment to providing exceptional hospitality.
CD: What drew you to Rome, and how did you end up becoming the General Manager of the Kolbe Rome Hotel?
CI: Kolbe Hotel Rome, the beautiful 4 star hotel which it is today, used to be a basic hotel for pilgrims until 2005, called Casa Kolbe. Before that it was a Franciscan convent. I’ve been in the hotel business since 1970 and in 2005 I was the CEO of a small hotel group in Rome. Together with my business partners we were searching for new hotels to add to our portfolio. We noticed the potential and the unique location in front of the archaeological area, and decided to take over this business regardless of the challenge. A full renovation and restoration of the original features was completed during the years 2006 and 2007, and afterwards Casa Kolbe was rebranded to Kolbe Hotel Rome. Since that day I have been the general manager.
CD: What is the hotel’s philosophy or mission statement, and how does it guide your daily operations?
CI: Our mission is enabling our guests to be in direct contact with the grand history of Rome for a few days. Kolbe Hotel Rome is located in front of the Palatine Hill, where Rome was founded 2777 years ago, and a stone’s throw from the Roman Forum, Capitoline Hill, Circus Maximus and the Mouth of Truth. It guides our daily operations as we introduce guests to and explain the history of our immediate surroundings upon check-in.
CD: What do you consider to be the hotel’s most unique selling point or feature?
CI: Our unrepeatable location in front of the Palatine Hill, our beautiful courtyard garden, our rooftop terrace and the original features of our building dating back to 1625 are our most unique features.
CD: How do you gather and utilise guest feedback to improve the hotel’s offerings?
CI: Reviews are a fundamental aspect of improving and updating our service to the customer’s expectations and needs.
CD: Are there any upcoming plans to introduce new amenities or services to the hotel?
CI: For our guests we’ve created a series of videos with walking tours, all very interesting itineraries in the neighbourhood. These videos are available on our website and in the hotel lobby. We’re planning to create even more videos.
CD: Does the hotel collaborate with any local businesses or organisations? If so, how?
CI: For environmental reasons we only use local suppliers.
CD: How does the hotel contribute to the local community? Are there any specific initiatives or projects you’re proud of?
CI: Local guests can enjoy our restaurant and garden, and furthermore our hotel is often used by Roman couples as a perfect wedding venue because of the stunning rooftop terraces and beautiful garden.
CD: What are the biggest trends or challenges currently facing the hospitality industry in Rome?
CI: Rome is one of the cities that has to deal with overtourism. Kolbe Hotel Rome is fortunate enough to have a quiet location. We believe that a partial solution for this challenge is to better divide tourism throughout the year, instead of concentrating tourism in the central months of the year, from spring to autumn.
CD: How do you see the hotel evolving in the next few years? What are your goals for the hotel’s future?
CI: We’re planning to renew the layout and furniture of our suites to better meet the expectations of our high-level customers.
CD: What are some of the most memorable moments or experiences you’ve had as the General Manager of the Kolbe Rome Hotel?
CI: The most exciting moment was the opening of our hotel immediately after the renovation and restoration works at the end of 2007. I still remember that opening day with great pleasure as if it were yesterday.
CD: What advice would you give to travellers visiting Rome for the first time?
CI: Rome is a must-see for everyone and can therefore be crowded. It’s best to have a daily program and to book tickets for the main attractions in advance.
CD: And finally Carlo, what is your favourite part about being the General Manager of the Kolbe Rome Hotel?
CI: My favourite part of being the General Manager of Kolbe Hotel Rome is being in daily contact with customers from all over the world.
