The iconic Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini hotel marks its 50th anniversary this October. It’s been five decades since it welcomed its first guests in the center of the city, just a short distance from the former North Station and nestled at the base of the Príncipe Pío mountain.
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.
The accommodations, featuring fully equipped kitchens, create a home-like atmosphere that quickly drew in a number of notable guests, including the poet Rafael Alberti and the actress Nuria Espert, who became frequent visitors due to the establishment’s serene ambiance, intimate privacy, and outstanding service.
Madrid, 1974
In October 1974, Madrid bore little resemblance to the city we know today. The Sabatini Gardens, which inspired the hotel’s name, had been in development since the 1930s following the demolition of the Royal Palace stables. They didn’t officially open until 1978. The grandfather of the current director, Bernardo García, who owned one of the earliest SEAT dealerships in Madrid, was the visionary behind the construction of ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini, situated right in front of the gardens, thereby broadening his business ventures.
Many Spaniards, like him, chose to embark on enterprises that were believed to be promising at that time. With the dictatorship of General Franco evidently nearing its conclusion, the nation felt more integrated into a thriving Europe. Nearby the hotel, the area formerly occupied by the Cuartel de la Montaña had been transformed into the Temple of Debod, which was carefully transported stone by stone from Aswan. The skyline of Madrid began to inspire visions of a contemporary city within a modern world.
No evidence remained of the washerwomen who once made their way down the Cuesta de San Vicente toward the river, nor of their refuge, which was torn down in the 1930s. Additionally, the first public swimming pool in Madrid, “Los baños del Niágara,” was also gone, as it made way for Bernardo García’s concessionaire. Today, that location is occupied by a parking lot adjacent to the hotel.
In this changing society ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini was born and has evolved with it to the present day.
Current State of the Hotel
The anniversary of ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini serves as a chance to explore the building in its current state, showcasing all the upgrades made to the facilities, particularly over the past five years. While these renovations have modernized the space, the essence of its spacious rooms, featuring kitchenettes like those in apartments, remains intact, accompanied by hotel-like services.
One of the most successful initiatives in recent years has been the High Altitude Brunch, which every Saturday and Sunday from autumn to spring can be enjoyed on its exquisite terrace, known for having the most spectacular views of the Royal Palace. It is accessed directly from the street in a glass elevator that allows you to contemplate an eight-story mural, the work of Brazilian artist Rogerio Fernandes.
From the moment you step into ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini, you are enveloped in art. In addition to Fernandes’ mural, the space features installations by the urban art collective Boa Mistura, positioned throughout various parts of the building, along with his graffiti piece “Del Corazón al Cielo” (From the Heart to the Sky), which spans 62 square meters. The contributions of painter Cristina Gamón, seen in the hotel lobby and breakfast area, along with those of Oscar Vautherin, who crafted the sculptures flanking the entrance and the piece “Five Left Feet” in the reception area, round out the ensemble of talented artists.
A hotel with an automobile museum that takes you back to early 20th century Madrid
One of the major highlights of Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini is its private classic car museum, situated in the building’s basement. This unique space was created in tribute to José Luis García, following a request from his daughters, Charo and Monica García Silgo.
This captivating collection features genuine automotive treasures, including a 1915 Ford T, a sophisticated Hispano-Suiza, and a unique section dubbed España Cañí, showcasing iconic vehicles such as biscuters, motorcycles, and the renowned Vespa from the film “Amanece, que no es poco.”
Hotel guests enjoy complimentary access to this space, which has turned into a must-visit for enthusiasts of automobiles and Madrid’s cultural heritage. The large photographs adorning the walls, sourced from the ABC newspaper archive, whisk visitors back to an era when these vehicles were integral to the cityscape.
Commemorative Events with Exclusive Views
During the month of October, the hotel will commemorate its 50th anniversary by hosting exclusive events on its stunning terrace, which offers the finest views of Madrid’s Royal Palace. Additionally, scheduled activities for November will feature guided tours of the classic car museum, along with a charity flea market.
“This 50th anniversary represents a truly significant moment for us, and we aim to celebrate it with everyone who has been a part of our journey, as well as those who are discovering us for the first time,” remarks Charo García Silgo. “We have observed the transformation of the city, and we take pride in being a venue where tradition intertwines with modernity, and where, despite utilizing the latest technologies, our greatest strength remains our dedicated team.”
This 50th anniversary presents a remarkable chance to rediscover a space where history resonates in every corner and warmth is felt from the very first visit. Fifty years of outstanding service, comfort, and breathtaking views of Madrid.
