Mié. Nov 6th, 2024

    The iconic Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini hotel marks its 50th anniversary this October. Half a century has elapsed since it welcomed its first guests in the center of the city, just a short distance from what was once the North Station and situated at the base of the Príncipe Pío hill.

    In the Madrid of the seventies, the idea behind the establishment was so innovative that it required a newly created term: apartosuites. The spacious and cozy rooms were designed for extended stays, and from its inception in 1974, it aimed to provide its visitors with more than just a place to stay: a true Madrid experience that blends the comfort of an apartment with the amenities of a hotel. 

    Its rooms, with fully equipped kitchens, provide a feeling of home away from home, a quality that soon attracted many illustrious clients, such as the poet Rafael Alberti and the actress Nuria Espert, regulars of the establishment for its tranquility, privacy and excellent service.

    Madrid, 1974

    In October 1974, Madrid looked completely different than it does now. The Sabatini Gardens, which inspired the hotel’s name, had been in the works since the 1930s following the demolition of the Royal Palace stables. They weren’t officially opened until 1978. The grandfather of the current director, Bernardo García, who owned one of Madrid’s earliest SEAT dealerships, constructed the ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini in front of the gardens, thereby expanding his business venture.

    Like him, there were many Spaniards who decided to venture into an enterprise which, at that time, was predicted to be prosperous. General Franco’s dictatorship was clearly coming to an end, and the country felt increasingly part of a flourishing Europe. In the vicinity of the hotel, the site that had given way to the demolition of the Cuartel de la Montaña had been occupied by the temple of Debod, brought stone by stone from Aswan, and the skyline of Madrid allowed us to begin to dream of a modern city in a modern world.

    There was no trace left of the washerwomen who used to go down the Cuesta de San Vicente towards the river, nor of their asylum, demolished in the 30’s. Neither was there any trace of the first public swimming pool in Madrid, “Los baños del Niágara”, which disappeared in pursuit of Bernardo García’s concessionaire, and which today is a parking lot next to the hotel.

    In this transforming society, ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini came into existence and has adapted alongside it up to the present time. 

    The Hotel Today

    The anniversary of ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini is an opportunity to get to know the building today, with all the renovations that have been carried out in the facilities, especially in the last five years, but maintaining the concept of its large rooms equipped with kitchenette as apartments, but with the services of a hotel.

    One of the standout initiatives in recent years has been the High Altitude Brunch, available every Saturday and Sunday from autumn through spring on its stunning terrace, celebrated for offering breathtaking views of the Royal Palace. Access to the terrace is provided directly from the street via a glass elevator that showcases an impressive eight-story mural created by Brazilian artist Rogerio Fernandes.

    From the moment you enter ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini, you breathe art. In addition to this work by Fernandes, there are the installations of the urban art group Boa Mistura, located in different areas of the building, as well as his graffiti “Del Corazón al Cielo” (From the Heart to the Sky), covering 62 square meters. The painter Cristina Gamón, with her interventions in the hotel lobby and breakfast room, and Oscar Vautherin, author of the sculptures flanking the entrance and of the work “Five Left Feet” in the reception area, complete the lineup of artists.

    A Hotel with an Automobile Museum that Transports You to Early 20th Century Madrid

    One of the standout features of Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini is its unique classic car museum, nestled in the building’s basement. This museum was created in honor of José Luis García at the request of his daughters, Charo and Monica García Silgo.

    This fascinating collection includes true automotive gems, such as a 1915 Ford T, an elegant Hispano-Suiza and a special corner called España Cañí, where iconic vehicles such as biscuters, motorcycles and the famous Vespa from the movie “Amanece, que no es poco” are on display.

    Hotel guests are entitled to a free visit to this space, which has become a must for lovers of motoring and Madrid’s cultural history. The large images that cover its walls, taken from the ABC newspaper archive, transport visitors to a time when these vehicles were part of the urban landscape.

    Commemorative Events with Exclusive Views

    During the entire month of October, the hotel will commemorate its 50th anniversary with special events held on its stunning terrace, offering the finest views of Madrid’s Royal Palace. Planned activities for November will also feature guided tours of the classic car museum and a charitable flea market.

    “This 50th anniversary represents a truly significant milestone for us, and we wish to celebrate it with everyone who has contributed to our journey and those who are just discovering us,” states Charo García Silgo. “We have observed the transformations within the city, and we take pride in being a venue where tradition merges with modernity, and where, despite embracing the latest technologies, our greatest asset remains our dedicated team.”

    This 50th anniversary offers a remarkable chance to explore a location where history resonates in every nook and the warmth of hospitality is felt from the very first visit. Fifty years of distinction, comfort, and unmatched views of Madrid await you.