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 that Madrid of the seventies, the concept of the establishment was so groundbreaking that it had to be baptized with a neologism coined ad hoc: apartosuites. The size and comfort of its rooms were geared to long stays and so, since its foundation in 1974, it set out to offer its guests much more than accommodation: a genuine Madrid experience combined with the comfort of an apartment and the services of a hotel.
The rooms, featuring fully furnished kitchens, create a comforting atmosphere reminiscent of home, a feature that quickly drew in notable guests, including the poet Rafael Alberti and the actress Nuria Espert, who frequented the venue for its serene ambiance, seclusion, and outstanding service.
Madrid, 1974
In October 1974, Madrid bore little resemblance to its current self. The Sabatini Gardens, after which the hotel is named, had been undergoing development since the 1930s, following the dismantling of the Royal Palace’s stables. However, they were not officially opened until 1978. The founder of the ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini was the grandfather of the present director, Bernardo García, who owned one of the first SEAT dealerships in Madrid, marking a significant expansion of his business by constructing the hotel right across from the gardens.
Similar to him, numerous Spaniards chose to embark on a venture that, during that period, was anticipated to thrive. The dictatorship of General Franco was evidently nearing its conclusion, and the nation was beginning to feel more integrated into a blossoming Europe. In the surroundings of the hotel, the area that had been cleared for the demolition of the Cuartel de la Montaña was now home to the temple of Debod, meticulously transported stone by stone from Aswan. The skyline of Madrid offered glimpses of the dreams for a contemporary city in a modern era.
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 changing society ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini was born and has evolved with it to the present day.
The Hotel Today
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.
Among the most popular initiatives in recent years has been the High Altitude Brunch, which can be savored every Saturday and Sunday from autumn through spring on its stunning terrace, celebrated for offering some of the most breathtaking views of the Royal Palace. Guests can reach it 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 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 Featuring an Automobile Museum that Whisks 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 boasts genuine automotive treasures, including a 1915 Ford T, a stylish Hispano-Suiza, and a unique section named España Cañí, where classic vehicles like biscuters, motorcycles, and the renowned Vespa featured in the film “Amanece, que no es poco” are showcased.
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 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 marks a truly special time for us, and we wish to celebrate it with everyone who has been part of our journey as well as those who are meeting us for the first time,” expresses Charo García Silgo. “We have seen the city evolve, and we take pride in being a venue that embodies the fusion of tradition and modernity, where, despite embracing the latest technologies, our greatest asset remains our dedicated team.”
This 50th anniversary presents a special chance to rediscover a venue where history resonates in every nook, and warmth is evident from the very first visit. Fifty years of exceptional service, comfort, and unrivaled views of Madrid.
