Italian Icons RETURN

There are few places better suited to celebrate Italian automotive history than Rome. More than 70 historic Italian automobile recently gathered in the capital for the inaugural Anantara Concorso Roma, bringing together some of the country's most celebrated marques. For the first time in more than 60 years, Rome once again played host to a concours d'eleganza, providing a fitting setting for cars that have become a defining part of Italy's national identity.

“The first concorso d'eleganza in Rome in 60 years, Anantara Concorso Roma turned Rome into a curated open-air experience.”

Presented by UBS and hosted at the Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel, the event welcomed collectors, enthusiasts, and visitors from around the world for a celebration of Italian automotive design. Luxury vehicles spanning almost a century were on display, charting the evolution of Italian styling from the 1920s to the present day. Under the sharp eye of the judging panel, a selection of masterpieces from Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Ferrari, and Lamborghini competed for top honors across 16 classes.

       The concours unfolded across Casina Valadier and Piazza Bucharest in Villa Borghese, where rows of historic cars overlooked one of Europe’s most recognisable cityscapes. Rather than being confined to a convention centre or exhibition hall, the event became part of the city, inviting visitors to experience Italian motoring heritage against a backdrop of Roman history and culture.

       Throughout the weekend, owners and guests moved between concours displays, hospitality events, and some of the capital’s most celebrated landmarks, enjoying an experience that captured the elegance and heritage of the occasion. Guided by the spirit of La Dolce Vita delle Automobili, the event combined remarkable cars with exceptional hospitality and the understated charm that defines Italian life.

       Among the many highlights was the 1932 Maserati V4 Sport Zagato, which was awarded Best of Show. Nicknamed the “Sedici Cilindri,” this rare icon is famous for its four-litre, 16-cylinder engine and a legendary 10-kilometer world speed record set in 1929. Its appearance at Anantara Concorso Roma marked the car’s first return Rome in almost 90 years, providing one of the most memorable moments of the weekend.

       The event also opened its doors to the public, giving locals and visitors the chance to see cars that are usually kept in museums or private collections. For many, it was a rare opportunity to experience Italy’s automotive history up close and to take in details that are normally seen only at a distance.

        As the sun set over Villa Borghese on the final day of the event, the cars may have been the centre of attention, but they were only part of the story. The setting and atmosphere created a weekend that was uniquely Italian, bringing together automotive excellence and the culture that has surrounded it for generations.

anantaraconcorsoroma.com

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