All eyes are on Rome this year, for a multitude of reasons that seem set to entice more high-end property buyers to the city. Along with the election of a new pope, the Catholic church is celebrating a “giubileo”, or jubilee year: a once-in-a-generation event that’s expected to attract 32 million pilgrims, swelling the ranks of those who visit one of Europe’s most historically important capitals each year.
The preparations have included several infrastructure improvements that will benefit residents and visitors alike, according to Danilo Orlando, head of residential at Savills Italy. “The giubileo has always been a time of important change in Rome, and the city is developing so much,” he says. “About 600 projects have been undertaken, at a cost of around €4.8 billion (£4.1 billion), including renovations to the Trevi Fountain and other monuments, adding new cycle lanes and improvements to the road infrastructure and Metro network.
“This comes after the opening of a significant number of five-star hotels, from brands including Nobu, Six Senses, Bulgari and, in 2026, Rosewood. That in turn has brought top-quality restaurants and designer boutiques, and now new property options. The level of tourism in a city affects the real estate, of course.”
Orlando outlines further reasons why both individuals and institutions are choosing to invest in the city. Anyone who transfers tax residency to the country, and has not been a resident for tax purposes for nine of the previous 10 years, can opt to pay a flat levy currently set at €200,000 per year.
