In fact, the Arnaboldi Palace occupies the piano nobile of a late Nineteenth Century building in the very centre of Pavia. If you are familiar with the Galleria Vittoria Emanuele II in Milan (what locals call “Milan’s drawing room”), this is Pavia’s version. Indeed, its central octagonal square surmounted by a glass and iron dome was inspired by the Galleria.

As Pavia’s streets are narrow in the ancient manner, motor traffic is severely restricted. But the Arnaboldi Palace will give you precise directions and, once you have arrived, a member of staff will ensure your car is taken away to safety. This is a service well worth the small extra charge.

The members of staff I encountered - particularly Ricardo on the front desk - afforded me a friendly welcome and I was soon relaxing in my spacious and air conditioned room, admiring its large oil painting of St Philip Neri distributing bread to the poor. The walls were white and lighting was provided by a chandelier of crystal, spotlights and table lamps in the form of golden lions. The sense of traditional grandeur was reinforced by the floor of brown marble and by the ancient hanging wardrobe. The bathroom was more modern in its style.