Rome loses major cultural space: former Mint to become offices

The Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato (IPZS) has abandoned plans to turn Rome's historic former Mint building in the Esquilino district into a cultural hub, opting instead to convert it into corporate offices. The original €35 million project, approved in 2021 and designed by Atelier(s) Alfonso Femia, would have included a museum for the Mint's collection, artisan workshops, a restaurant, a library, and public spaces. The revised plan, approved in March 2025 by the Interregional Works Authority for Lazio, Abruzzo, and Sardinia, replaces most cultural functions with 8,000 square meters of IPZS offices, a company cafeteria, and expanded parking (from 800 to over 1,100 square meters). Only the Carabinieri Anti-Counterfeiting Command offices, some multipurpose spaces, and limited food/retail remain. The neighborhood committee 'Rione Esquilino' has denounced the decision, calling it a missed opportunity to revitalize a degraded area. IPZS CEO Francesco Soro justified the change on economic grounds, claiming the original project would have cost €2-3 million annually to operate. Architect Alfonso Femia expressed disappointment but noted that the first two floors will retain reversible interventions, leaving open the possibility of future cultural use. The Mint's museum will remain at the Salaria site, and the School of Medal Art will stay on the Nomentana road.