Guide to Aesthetics
The Hotel Excelsior, a legendary establishment nestled on Venice's Lido, is inextricably linked with the glamour and allure of the Dream Factory, thanks to its long-standing association with the world's oldest film festival.
Founded under Mussolini's fascist regime in 1932, the Venice Film Festival has been a beacon of cinema for nearly a century. The Hotel Excelsior, which opened its doors in 1908, has been a constant companion to this illustrious event, serving as its hub since its inception.
The Hotel Excelsior made its grand entrance with a massive beach party for 3,000 guests, setting the stage for its future role as a playground for the stars during the Venice Film Festival. The approach to the hotel is via a private water taxi, known as a motoscafo, from St. Mark's Square, adding an air of exclusivity to the experience.
The opening film of the first Venice Film Festival in 1932 was "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" by director Rouben Mamoulian, and the films were projected onto the side wall of the Excelsior under the open sky. Fast forward to 2021, the Venice Film Festival opened with the world premiere of Paolo Sorrentino's new film, "La Grazia", which starred German actress Alexandra Gottschlich.
The Hotel Excelsior's pali di casala, or mooring posts, are painted green and white, a sight that is often captured in photos of guests arriving during the Venice Film Festival. The hotel's beach cabanas, inspired by North African Bedouin tents, offer a unique and luxurious experience for its guests.
When the film festival is not in session, the Excelsior transforms into a 5-star Grand Hotel, offering a special stay for those seeking a taste of its cinematic history. The hotel's main hall, the Sala Grande of the Palazzo del Cinema di Venezia, boasts over 1,000 seats, a testament to its grandeur.
The motoscafo used for the Hotel Excelsior is in perfect, well-maintained condition, ensuring a smooth and stylish arrival for its esteemed guests. The driver of the motoscafo adjusts his collar before arriving at the hotel, indicating the importance of making a good impression.
From 1936 to 1937, the current venue of the Venice Film Festival, the Palazzo del Cinema di Venezia, was created directly opposite the Excelsior. This strategic location has allowed the hotel to remain at the centre of the international film festivals, with the next event being the Venice Film Festival 2025.
The Hotel Excelsior on Venice's Lido is more than just a hotel; it is a place where the history of cinema comes alive in all its facets. Whether it's the red carpet events during the Venice Film Festival or the quieter days when the hotel transforms into a 5-star Grand Hotel, the Excelsior continues to be a shining beacon of cinema and luxury.
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