History and tradition in the centre of Rome

Set in the upper highrise of Rome's Rione Monti, the Hotel Diana district goes back to Roman times. During the Middle Ages this area was full of vineyards, residential villas and gardens.
At the end of the nineteenth century, with Rome becoming the capital, after the Unification of Italy, large parts of this district underwent a complete change. The train station and the Opera House were built, elegant palatial buildings erected and space made for new roads.
It is here, in this newly created urban district, that the Hotel Diana marks history. In ancient times, round about the sixteeenth century, the site was part of a park, attached to Pope Sisto V's private country residence, the Villa Peretti Montalto.

Early origins of this hotelier tradition

The Hotel Diana continues to be a family owned establishment since 1939. Benedetto De Angelis, the founder, was born in 1892 in Abruzzo. As a young man Benedetto travelled widely abroad, mastering several languages. Thus the basis for his brilliant career in the hospitality industry combined with his enterprising skills was set.
In Rome, he has first hired as a cableboy manning the first hydraulic lifts at the Hotel De Russie. Later, starting off as an apprentice at the Hotel Quirinale, he gradually made his way to one of the top position in hotel management.
Treasuring these important professional experiences, Benedetto decided to start his own business in 1939. He started off renting the building on Via Principe Amedeo 4 and transforming it into a hotel. The name "Diana" was choosen to pay homage to the daughter of one of his dearest friends and working colleagues. The hunting goddess and her dogs been part of the Hotel's logo since then.

The War years

During the war, Benedetto's oldest son Enrico was drafted to the front. Because of its strategic position in the centre of Rome, during World War II, the German forces occupied the Hotel Diana to lodge their militia. After the liberation, the Hotel Diana became the headquarters for French non commissioned officers. Finally upon Enrico's return at the end of the war, the family regained control of the property and renewed their activity.

The Restoration

In 1980, Enrico's son, Carlo De Angelis took over the management. Under his loving guide, the establishment was completely restored and rennovated with all the modern facilities, giving new life to the activity and investing in new resources. It was then that the Roof Garden "L'Uliveto" was added to the structure and is still today the pride and glory of the Diana.

The Hotel Diana today

The fourth generation "De Angelis" are faithfully following Benedetto's example. Constant, meticulous and never-ending in their quest to meet travellers expectations. Offering top quality comfort is strenous and changes never ending. As in the last seventy years, the De Angelis family will continue to preserve the passion and tradition of Roman hospitality.