16 Cylinders Reverberate at the Inaugural Anantara Concorso Roma

Key Takeaways

Rome hosted its first Concours d’Elegance since 1960, featuring 70 exclusive Italian automobiles.
The event showcased the rich history of Italian cars in a stunning venue, culminating with a 1932 Maserati V4 Sport Zagato winning Best of Show.
Due to its success, the second edition is confirmed for April 1-4, 2027, promising further celebration of Italy’s automotive heritage.

Celebrating Italian Automotive Heritage in Rome

Rome recently held its first Concours d’Elegance in over six decades, showcasing 70 rare Italian automobiles. This inaugural Anantara Concorso Roma, which took place from April 16-19, 2026, marked a significant event in the automotive world, set against the backdrop of the historic city.

The objective of the concourse was to create a uniquely Italian celebration, dedicated solely to the nation’s automotive achievements. Jury president Adolfo Orsi Jr. initiated this event to fill a gap, focusing exclusively on Italian vehicles and bypassing international showcases. This distinctive focus provided a cohesive narrative of Italy’s automotive pride.

The stunning venue added to the experience, with cars displayed at Villa Borghese’s Casina Valadier and the Anantara Palazzo Naiadi hotel. Participants enjoyed a parade through Rome’s picturesque streets, featuring classic Alfas and Ferraris. The weekend concluded with an elegant dinner and entertainment at Palazzo Brancaccio.

Among the 70 cars, they were divided into 16 categories, covering nearly a century of Italian automotive history. The 1929 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Sport Zagato earned the Jury President’s Prize, while the most elegant pre-war vehicle was a 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Cabriolet. Notable victories in post-war classes went to several Ferraris, including a 1951 Ferrari 340 America Barchetta.

The event’s highlight was the Best of Show award, given to the 1932 Maserati V4 Sport Zagato. Its rich history includes ownership ties to Pope Pius XII’s doctor and a significant wartime narrative, enhancing its allure. The car is powered by a unions of two straight-eight engines, allowing it to reach impressive speeds and achieve notable racing victories. Maserati, the event’s official partner, displayed historic models, emphasizing the significance of the Trident emblem’s centenary.

Overall, the Concours d’Elegance attracted notable collectors and captivated a diverse audience. The event was open to the public, allowing locals and visitors to appreciate Italy’s finest automobiles. The success of this inaugural edition sets high expectations for the next event, scheduled for April 1-4, 2027.

The content above is a summary. For more details, see the source article.