Rome is famous for its astonishing cultural riches. Which is your favourite work of art in the city?
Rome is filled with art and architectural delights, but I really love the ancient Temple of Portunus – named after the Roman god of ports – which is in the archaeological area of the Forum Boarium of Rome, one of the oldest parts of the city. From the windows here in Rhinoceros Roma, you can see Palatine Hill and the temples beyond, as well as the Arch of Janus. Through my Fondazione Alda Fendi – Esperimenti, I have always gifted presents to the city of Rome, and when I started Rhinoceros Roma, I decided to make culture accessible to everyone by maintaining free entry to our performances and exhibitions here in the gallery. I’m incredibly proud that in 2020 President Macron awarded me the Legion of Honour for my cultural merits.
Rome is famous for its ancient wonders, but which is your favourite contemporary art gallery in the city?
I know I may be biased but I do really love Rhinoceros Gallery! It is starting to make itself known by showcasing a number of incredible exhibitions of well-known artists such as Picasso. However, recently, the gallery has started a brand-new mission to showcase lesser-known, contemporary artists that do not currently have a presence in Rome.
Is there one classic Roman food that everyone should try and where is the best place to get it?
My favourite dish is puntarella – a salad that incorporates chicory with anchovies served with a rich dressing. It can be eaten hot or cold, which is perfect for the changing Roman weather! If you want to eat an excellent one, I recommend going to the Rigatoni Democratici in Trastevere – a real Roman trattoria.
Where is the best place to get an ice cream in Rome?
There are so many amazing places in Rome to get beautiful ice cream, and many more are opening, but my go-to place is still Tre Scalini in Piazza Navona. Its chocolate truffle is one of the best delicacies in the world! I was lucky enough to meet the great French writer Simone de Beauvoir there in the past.
To visit Alda’s gallery or stay at her hotel, visit rhinocerosroma.com
