Rome, a city that has captivated countless souls for centuries, has also held a special place in the heart of fashion icon Valentino Garavani. His love story with the Eternal City began in 1958, a year that marked the start of a lifelong romance. He feels as though he was born in Rome, his spirit deeply intertwined with its vibrant culture.
A City of Contrasts and Endless Inspiration
Right from the start, Valentino was captivated by the unique charm of Rome. He describes it as the perfect passeggiata city – a place where you can fully immerse yourself by simply strolling through its winding streets. Every corner reveals a new treasure: ancient monuments, magnificent churches, and bustling piazzas, each painting a vivid canvas of life and history.
The city is a kaleidoscope of experiences, where the lively chatter of locals in the Trastevere district echoes through the cobbled lanes, as if straight out of an Alberto Sordi film. It’s a place where aristocrats reside in grand, crumbling palazzos alongside humble shopkeepers, creating a mesmerizing blend of opulence and simplicity. This captivating contrast, a hallmark of Rome, is unlike anything else found in Italy.
A City of Light and Movement
Valentino, a fashion designer at heart, was immediately drawn to Rome’s captivating beauty. The warm, golden light, the vibrant colors, the breathtaking art, and the timeless architecture – all conspired to ignite his creative spirit. He wonders if the city’s characteristic red and orange hues subconsciously inspired his iconic “rosso Valentino” shade, a testament to the city’s enduring influence on his work.
Rome is a city of movement, its energy pulsating through every street. This dynamism is reflected in Valentino’s designs, particularly his signature sinuous pieces that gracefully flow with the body’s every move. He finds inspiration in the curvaceous lines of the Roman Baroque, translating their grandeur into his own artistic creations, resulting in captivating silhouettes and elegant forms.
Living and Breathing Rome: Palazzo Valentino and Beyond
Valentino’s career blossomed in the heart of Rome, where his main atelier stands just a stone’s throw from the iconic Spanish Steps. He established his couture house in the elegant Via Condotti, and later, with the support of his partner Giancarlo Giammetti, moved to the historic Via Gregoriana. Their shared passion for Rome led them to a 16th-century palazzo known as Palazzo Mignanelli, which they slowly but surely transformed into their own. They started on the top floor, gradually expanding their space until they occupied the entire palazzo, now affectionately called Palazzo Valentino, a symbol of their enduring love for the city.
While Valentino may not explore Rome as often as he used to, his memories of its countless treasures remain vivid. He has a fondness for Via Giulia, a charming street lined with aristocratic palazzos, antique shops, and chic boutiques, culminating in the elegant Piazza Farnese, now home to the French Embassy.
He also speaks fondly of the Appian Way, one of Ancient Rome’s most important consular roads, which stretches from the city center all the way to Brindisi. His home sits at the intersection of Appia Pignatelli and Appia Antica, a place where he can still feel the spirit of Classical Rome amidst the worn cobblestones and ancient ruins, despite the modern developments encroaching on its historical charm.
A City of Scenographic Splendor
For Valentino, Rome is a city of captivating scenery, a stage waiting for its own dazzling performances. This vision is reflected in the haut couture fashion shows he organized on the Spanish Steps and Piazza Mignanelli for three years. The entire area buzzed with energy, filled with beautiful models gliding through the iconic locations, cameras capturing the magic of the moment. The shows were a celebration of the city’s grandeur, a modern-day interpretation of the lavish pageants that once graced the city’s squares.
His 45th anniversary celebration in 2007 was a grand finale, a testament to his deep love for Rome. The city’s mayor granted him permission to use the Temple of Venus in the Roman Forum, a venue usually reserved for the Pope himself. The event was a spectacular affair, complete with fireworks over the Colosseum, an aerial ballet, and an unforgettable show at the Santo Spirito in Sassia. It was a heartfelt thank-you to the city that had given him so much.
A City of Delicious Delights
Valentino’s love for Rome extends beyond its architectural wonders and cultural richness. He delights in the city’s culinary scene, particularly the traditional Roman restaurants. One of his favorites is Al Moro, a classic spot near the Trevi Fountain, a favorite dining place of the legendary filmmaker Federico Fellini. Valentino prefers the warmth of these old-fashioned establishments, where the food is hearty and the service is impeccable.
A City of Warmth and Vibrancy
For Valentino, Rome is more than just a city, it’s a living, breathing entity with a unique energy. The people of Rome are renowned for their warmth, their love of good food and conversation, and their joie de vivre. While stress has become a global phenomenon, Rome retains its vibrant spirit, a testament to its enduring charm and the magic that permeates its very essence. Valentino’s love affair with Rome is a testament to its timeless beauty, its captivating energy, and the inspiration it continues to offer to those who fall under its spell.
