The Riviera city welcomes him with the grace of a bygone era, yet his gaze is firmly fixed on the future. Enrico De Barbieri (Honorary Patron of our Journal) has just been appointed Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Miramare The Palace in Sanremo, one of the most iconic 5-star luxury hotels on the Riviera dei Fiori. With this new role, he is already outlining a global vision. “The Miramare is much more than a hotel. It is history, charm, and vision. Evita Peron, Queen Elena, Charles De Gaulle have walked these halls. The first stone was laid in 1870. Now, it is our turn to write a new chapter,” he states with an assertive tone. This new chapter opens onto a landscape of international relations, cultural diplomacy, and global appeal, aiming to relaunch the magnificent structure into the most exclusive international circuits.
The Glorious History of Miramare The Palace
To understand the weight of this new presidency, one must first understand the soul of the Miramare. Nestled in a lush subtropical park overlooking the azure Ligurian Sea, the hotel has been a beacon of luxury and elegance since its inception in 1870. Its Belle Époque architecture is a testament to an age of glamour and sophistication, a place where history has been written. The guestbook reads like a roll call of global icons: the great composer Giacomo Puccini found inspiration here, Queen Elena of Italy graced its suites with her royal presence, and world leaders like Charles De Gaulle and charismatic figures such as Evita Peron chose it for their stays. In more recent times, Hollywood stars like John Travolta and Antonio Banderas, along with several winners of the famous Sanremo Music Festival, have continued this legacy. The Miramare is not merely a place to stay; it is an institution, a symbol of the “Made in Italy” excellence that seamlessly blends history with impeccable hospitality.
A Strategy of International Synergy and Cultural Diplomacy
Enrico De Barbieri’s presidency is poised to be a turning point, leveraging his extensive global network to elevate the hotel’s international standing. “Thanks to my worldwide network,” he adds, “we will project the Miramare into the most qualified international circuits. From Monaco to Kenya, from San Marino to Genoa, our offer will be based on heritage, events, culture, and services of excellence.” His strategy is clear: transform the Miramare into a hub for diplomatic, artistic, and institutional events. The hotel will become a true cultural embassy for Sanremo, fostering a constant dialogue with key cities like Monaco, Rome, Genoa, and Milan. The city of Sanremo itself is a strategic platform, boasting world-renowned events such as the Music Festival, the Premio Tenco, the Milan–Sanremo cycling race, the Casino, and the Institute of Humanitarian Law—all assets to be enhanced to attract high-level tourism and investment.
Forging Global Alliances, from Europe to Asia
The new vision for the Miramare extends far beyond the Mediterranean. The goal is to create powerful synergies to introduce this marvel of Italian heritage to new and discerning markets, with a significant focus on Asia, among others. De Barbieri’s role as WUSME Ambassador in the Principality of Monaco, for instance, provides a direct link to a global business and luxury hub. His work as a Goodwill Ambassador for the Kenya National Paralympic Committee demonstrates his reach and influence in diverse international arenas. This approach aims to attract a new generation of global travelers who seek authenticity, history, and unparalleled quality. The Miramare will be positioned not just as a hotel, but as an essential Italian experience, a gateway to the culture, history, and beauty of the Ligurian region. This will be driven by what De Barbieri identifies as the three keywords for his mandate: “Internationalization. Innovation. Memory.”
A Profile of the New Chairman
Enrico De Barbieri is a man whose career is a testament to building bridges between worlds. Born in Genoa, the son of the celebrated violinist Renato De Barbieri, he has cultivated a life at the intersection of entrepreneurship, culture, and diplomacy. His list of titles is a reflection of his multifaceted influence: he is an Ambassador of Genoa in the World; a Paganini Ambassador, an honour he shares with H.S.H. Prince Albert of Monaco; and a Brand Ambassador for Santandrea Luxury Houses & Top Properties of the Gabetti Group. His commitment to service is evident in his second term as President of the Lions Club Genova Albaro and his recognition as a Melvin Jones Fellow, the highest honour in Lionism.
His expertise also extends to the private security sector, where he serves as Senior Advisor for Institutional and International Relations at Europe GR.AM Solutions Academy, a leading Ligurian firm founded by the multi-talented entrepreneur Anna Maria Grassi. This role further underscores his engagement across various high-level strategic sectors. When asked about his leadership style, De Barbieri is unequivocal: “Proactive, inclusive, but with a clear vision. I believe in the strength of institutions, in the culture of relationships, and in a word that may seem obsolete today: honour.” It is this principle that will guide the next glorious chapter of the Miramare The Palace.
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