Palazzo Naiadi, The Dedica Anthology

The majestic entrance is lit by night to exaggerate the palatial structure, and historic remains of the Baths of Diocletian (dating to around 300 A.D.) can be viewed on the hotel’s first floor. Architects Maurizio Papiri and designer Adam D. Tihany retained some of the original neoclassical elements of this 19th-century palace when they transformed it into a hotel. The building's dramatic, semi-circular exterior anchors the Piazza della Repubblica.

Chandeliers hang from a massive ceiling in the lobby, which looks like it was once the palace ballroom, and the walls are muted shades of eggshell and beige accented with gold and white. There is a plentiful supply of suede and white leather armchairs and a selection of fine Italian handbags is on display in the lobby gift shop.

Although small pets are allowed, the grown-up ambiance may not suit families with young children.

Palazzo Naiadi, The Dedica Anthology is near the subway station Repubblica-Teatro dell’Opera, and a 10-minute walk from the trains at Termini Station. It's close to upscale shopping and restaurants, but due to its position guests first have to take a short walk to exit the piazza itself. It's possible to walk to a few tourist attractions, including the National Gallery of Ancient Art at the Piazza Barberini and the Rome Opera House, but most are a bit far to reach on foot. Many guests prefer to hop in a taxi, which are always available at the taxi stand in front of the hotel.

Across from the hotel on the other side of a fountain, is the the basilica dedicated to Maria Regina degli Angeli. Designed by Michelangelo for Pope Pius IV in 1561, this popular tourist stop can be admired from some of the hotel's front-facing rooms.

All rooms have elegant neoclassical design and high ceilings. The Classic rooms are dominated by shades of beige and cream. Bathrooms are decorated with fine marble, stainless steel fixtures, and mahogany accents. The Superior rooms are spacious and look on to internal courtyards or the side streets of Piazza Repubblica. The bathrooms have a tub and shower.

Deluxe Rooms show a little extra attention to detail in the accents and furnishing, and the specialty rooms in the Clementino area, which in the 17th century housed the Pope's granary, fall into the deluxe category. Deluxe Rooms also come with a view of the piazza and double sinks in the marble bathroom.

Duplex Junior Suites have a duplex layout with an elegant living area on the first floor and an intimate sleeping area on the mezzanine. They have large bathrooms with separate tub and shower, and all the rooms look out onto the piazza.

Three are three different and unusual Executive Suites available featuring striking color combinations; bathrooms have their own exclusive dressing room, sauna, and jacuzzi tub.

All room types offer individual climate control, minibars, robes, slippers, Etro toiletries, turndown service, and free newspaper delivery.

The spa offers a selection of herbal teas, a welcome attendant, showers, and lockers. There is a modern sauna, as well as an infinity pool with panoramic views of the city (open May through September). The the terrace bar by the pool also offers a healthy breakfast menu. It's also a good spot to have cocktails and watch the sunset over the city.

There are several ways to dine on premises. The lobby bar is private and somewhat hidden in the hotel’s sumptuous Liberty Hall. The red and black Champagnerie Tazio Lounge Bar (and Dolce Vita Gallery) is an exclusive champagne bar that spills out onto the piazza. It's a popular choice for people-watchers and offers light fare.

The Frusta Breakfast Room is on the first floor with large windows for a view over Piazza della Repubblica and Santa Maria degli Angeli, and the Tazio Restaurant and Gallery Bar caps things off with crystal chandeliers, rich brown and cream decor, and photos of prior celebrity guests filling the walls.