History and fun facts
“The Riunione Adriatica di Sicurtà honored itself and Trieste by constructing in the city center a building which, thanks to its size, opulence, magnificence, the galliard and pulsating life of art, from the vast conception to the slightest and most delicate details, properly renews the traditions of the enlightened elegance of 16th-century Italy.” from Il Piccolo, 19 April 1914.
In a Trieste at the height of its economic and cultural development, the newspaper Il Piccolo thus defined the new seat of the RAS insurance company. A sincere tribute by the newspaper to the creation of the new building in an eclectic Neo-Renaissance style.
Designed by the architects Ruggero and Arduino Berlam, winners of the international competition announced by RAS for the project, the building had to be a symbol of economic power and work ethic, as well as offer an opportunity to develop the surrounding urban area.
The Berlams’ project met all of RAS’s needs. The building was constructed between 1911 and 1914 and the result was a magnificent structure, with Renaissance-inspired forms and volumes, eclectic decorations, and spectacular marble and sculptures. All these elements have been preserved and enhanced with the renovation and opening of the hotel as DoubleTree by Hilton Trieste in December 2019.
The history of the building is steeped in art and symbols. In fact, the exterior and interior of this magnificent structure are embellished by prestigious works of art.
The impressive wrought iron gate was designed by the Berlams, while the sculptures, which evoke concepts regarding insurance, are works by Gianni Marin and Giovanni Meyer. They include depictions of Prudence and Perseverance and other allegoric figures such as Fire, Air, Thought, Action, Water and Land.
The hotel entrance, as in the early 1900s, displays the reproduction of the Roman mosaic discovered during excavation work. Welcoming guests behind the reception is the iconic and impressive marble fountain depicting Mercury with three lions drinking, a metaphor of reason subjugating strength.
In 2019, after a careful renovation that has enhanced the splendid structure and decorative elements, the building reopened as DoubleTree by Hilton Trieste, managed by HNH Hospitality.
It has become a contemporary hotel, which, apart from welcoming travelers opens its doors to the public with initiatives, concerts, meets and events in order to share the heritage of ethical and cultural principles with citizens.
