The former Cinema Palazzo in Rome's San Lorenzo district, once nearly transformed into a casino, has undergone a remarkable revival. Led by a dedicated group of young Roman entrepreneurs, the space has been reclaimed by the founders behind Spaghetti Unplugged and Alcazar, who envision it as a vibrant networking and social hub for young Italian creatives.

Cinema Palazzo has faced years of legal battles, shifting municipal policies, and conflicting visions for its future. The controversy began on April 15, 2011, when a collective of students, activists, and artists staged a protest against the opening of a bingo hall in the building. What was initially expected to be a three-day occupation evolved into a decade-long movement, leading to the creation of Nuovo Cinema Palazzo.

Described as a "cultural center, meeting space, theater hub, and political agora," Nuovo Cinema Palazzo embraced its predecessor’s artistic roots, hosting theater performances, poetry readings, and debates on social issues. Located near Piazza dei Sanniti, it became a sanctuary for local musicians, actors, and creatives. Within the neighborhood, Cinema Palazzo earned a reputation as a "laboratory of cultural experimentation."

The debate over its future reflects the tension between commercial interests and community-driven initiatives in San Lorenzo. Built in the early 20th century to house factory workers, the neighborhood suffered heavy bombing during World War II, shaping its "gritty charm." In the 1960s and ‘70s, it became a hotspot for radical left-wing and student groups advocating anti-fascist ideals, later attracting creatives drawn to its proximity to La Sapienza University. However, ongoing gentrification and the increasing privatization of public spaces now threaten to turn the area into a hub of tourism and consumption.

Cinema Palazzo resisted commercialization until November 25, 2020, when an eviction order was issued under Virginia Raggi’s municipal administration. The 1,250 sqm space remained vacant, with building owners setting a monthly rent of €10,000 amid protests, social media campaigns, and petitions from supporters.

To the relief of its advocates, an agreement was reached on January 23, 2024, between the building owners and young entrepreneurs, securing management rights through a rental contract. The new project, Siamo Palazzo, was announced at the Andromeda Cinema by Spaghetti Unplugged founder David Dose, in collaboration with Alcazar, before an audience of local government representatives.

Defining itself as a cultural center, Siamo Palazzo plans to offer free access to a study room, coffee bar, and music center during the day, transforming into a venue for theater performances, cinema, and stand-up comedy at night. Pledging to "respect the nature of the place without structural changes," the center aims to preserve the values of its predecessor while providing San Lorenzo locals with a creative and social space. Featuring auditoriums, screening rooms, and communal areas, it seeks to foster community engagement and cultural continuity. Slated for completion in summer 2024, the project represents a new chapter for the neighborhood, balancing its historic identity with contemporary needs.