The inaugural Anantara Concorso Roma is set to celebrate the crème de la crème of Italian automotive excellence.

Anantara Concorso Roma - Lamborghini Huracan — All images courtesy Anantara Concorso Roma.

True to the old adage that “all roads lead to Rome,” Italy’s first concours d’elegance dedicated exclusively to Italian cars will soon debut in the historic heart of the Eternal City courtesy of the American-born founder of the Thai-based Minor Hotels group, William Heinecke. An avid collector of classic cars, Mr. Heinecke has poured his passion into the Anantara Concorso Roma, which makes its debut on April 24–27.

The event will unfold at two palatial locations: the Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel, which overlooks the Piazza della Repubblica and its centerpiece Fountain of the Naiads; and the hilltop grounds of Casina Valadier, a neoclassical palazzina in the Villa Borghese gardens with panoramic views that stretch from St. Peter’s Basilica to the Victor Emmanuel II monument and beyond.

Anantara Concorso Roma - Concours Director Jeremy Jackson Sytner.

Anantara Concorso Roma - 1975 Lancia Stratos HF Stradale

A weekend-long celebration of Italian automotive craftsmanship and heritage, Anantara Concorso Roma will feature only homegrown brands such as Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, and Pagani. Just 50 cars have been selected for the concours’ inaugural line-up. Typifying la dolce vita, they represent the rarest and most exceptional automobiles to come out of Italy in the 20th century, from prewar pioneers and sports cars from the 1950s and ’60s, to classic grand tourers and early supercars. Highlights include an Alfa Romeo 20-30 HP from 1920, a rare 1953 Siata 208S Berlinetta, and the celebrated 1963 Ferrari 275 P, which won twice at Le Mans.

The cars will be grouped by class and judged by a team of marque specialists based on authenticity and elegance. Leading the distinguished panel is Dr. Adolfo Orsi Jr., grandson of the man who bought Maserati back in the 1930s.

Participating car collectors and VIP guests will also be treated to Italian hospitality at its finest, with gourmet dining experiences and social gatherings across the weekend. For visitors, single-day entry to the car exhibition at Casina Valadier — which includes gourmet food stands and the chance to browse exclusive merchandise — costs €200 and is bookable online.

Anantara Concorso Roma - 1963 Ferrari 275 p

Revving It up in Rome

Stay inspired with our DestinAsian newsletters