Art-filled Renaissance palazzo
Original frescoes and regional paintings fill three joined Renaissance buildings, giving Modena an intimate grand residence.
What it’s good at
Notable
Restored sixteenth-century palazzo halls with period architectural details and original ceiling frescoes.
Listed
Poltrona Frau leather furniture and Venetian terrazzo floors alongside curated Modenese masterworks.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Hotel Rua Frati 48 is a handsome Renaissance-era building whose interior has been transformed into a lavish small luxury hotel, one where contemporary furnishings and modern comforts comfortably coexist with period-correct architectural features.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
The Church of San Francesco sits next door, and the historic center is just steps down the street.
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The rooms
Wood boiserie panels, Poltrona Frau leather, and crisp Frette linens frame restful quarters with deep jetted marble tubs.
The spa and gym
A blue mosaic Turkish bath and Finnish sauna share the fourth floor with an attic gym under exposed rafters.
At the table
Locanda in San Francesco serves hand-rolled tortellini in Parmigiano cream, and the American Bar pours vintage Bas-Armagnacs.
How it began
The site was once home to Ristorante Fini, where Luciano Pavarotti celebrated his wedding reception.
Modena
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The app
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.