An immutable travel tradition, acquiring a cherished souvenir or two is a popular pastime of any escape. Yet there’s another brand of memento that means so much more than the traditional token. Authentic, immersive and enriching, this kind of souvenir comes in the form of a newly mastered skill. Discover a selection of the many experiences we offer, inviting guests to master time-honoured techniques from the expert artisans that know them best.
Ancient Apulian artisanship
Taranto is a region that has always been famous for its fine craftsmanship, so where better to learn to create an exquisite Romanesque objet d’art. From Masseria Torre Maizza, you’ll be chauffeured to the National Archaeological Museum of Taranto, where you’ll be invited to explore a vast collection of ancient terracotta pottery, precious gold jewellery and stunning mosaics. Depending on what inspires you, you can choose to enrol in a Roman mosaic workshop, learn the jewellery techniques of old or discover how to restore antique ceramics. Having mastered the art, venture on to explore the boutiques of Grottaglie’s Quartiere delle Ceramiche, appreciating the hand-crafted works through expert eyes.
Classic Russian ballet
As Russia’s capital of culture and home to the world-renowned Mariinsky Ballet, there are few places more apt in which to perfect your pirouettes and pliés than St. Petersburg. Slip on a pair of satin shoes and dance your way through history as part of a special stay at Hotel Astoria. Enjoy stretching and ballet classes at a prestigious studio founded by acclaimed ballerina Diana Vishneva, principal dancer of the Mariinsky Ballet. Whether you’ve mastered the art or are yet to put your feet in first position, learning from veteran dancers who’ve enthralled thousands on the stage is an experience unlike any other.
Precious porcelain production
Fine porcelain from Frankfurt is coveted the world over, and this cultural hub is home to Germany’s second-oldest porcelain producer. Step into the world of Höchster Porzellan-Manufaktur for an immersive journey into the craftsmanship that goes into each piece, including the opportunity to try your hand at producing a precious memento. Enjoy a limousine transfer from Villa Kennedy to Höchster, where a knowledgeable guide will lead you through each stage of production, offering insight into the techniques used since 1746. Then, under the tuition of a master potter, shape, fire and finish a delicate keepsake of your own to take home.
To book your experience at Masseria Torre Maizza, email reservations@torremaizza@rocofortehotels.com or call +39 06 32 888 890.
To book your experience at Hotel Astoria, email reservations.astoria@roccofortehotels.com or call +7 812 494 5770.
To book your experience at Villa Kennedy, email reservations.villakennedy@roccofortehotels.com or call +49 69 717 12 1430.
With properties in each city, and its support of the exhibition ‘Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael: Florence, c. 1504’ at the Royal Academy of Arts in London, Rocco Forte Hotels has created a special 1504 tour to help guests revisit the Renaissance through a series of unforgettable experiences.
With the buzz of fashion month in the air, see Europe through a decidedly stylish lens from the comfort of our hotels. More than a display of talent and design – it’s a cultural barometer, offering a window into the character and creativity of a city and its people.
The Italian Renaissance didn’t just transform Italy, it cast a spell over London too. Even Queen Elizabeth I, who ruled over England and Ireland during this great period of growth, embraced the fascination, calling herself demi Italienne, or “half Italian”. Today, in certain pockets of the capital, the artistic, intellectual, and architectural influence of Renaissance Italy can still be felt.
