The Savoia Excelsior Palace celebrates 100th birthday in fascinating Trieste

Described at its first opening as ‘the most luxurious hotel in Austria-Hungary’, The Savoia Excelsior Palace, one of Starhotels’ Collezione, is celebrating its 100th birthday this year. A two-year restoration, completed in 2009, saw the imposing Ladislaus Fiedler architecture and turn-of-the century frescoes and furniture returned to their former glory, making this landmark building one of north-eastern Italy’s most fascinating finds and the Grand Dame of Trieste. Only steps from the spectacular Piazza dell’ Unità, with panoramic views over the Adriatic Sea, the hotel is perfectly located for visitors looking to uncover the heritage of this buzzing port city. In a city rich with literary links and at the crossroads of Italian, Mittel-European and Slavic cultures, the Savoia Excelsior Palace has not only witnessed 100 years of dramatic history but has played host to figures who have changed its course, including James Joyce and Emperor Franz Josef of Austria-Hungary. Literature lovers can head to the nearby Café of Mirrors, a frequent haunt of Ulysses’ author James Joyce, while culture vultures soak up the scene at one of the many museums and galleries located near to the hotel. For those with an appetite for architecture, The Savoia Excelsior Palace works closely with the historical castellos of Miramare, San Guisto and Duoni. Room rates at The Savoia Excelsior Palace start at 130 Euros per night for a Classic Room. Suites start from 370 Euros per night.