The distinctive Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini hotel marks a milestone as it commemorates its 50th anniversary this October. It has been fifty years since this establishment first welcomed guests in the vibrant center of the city, conveniently located near the former North Station and nestled 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.
Its accommodations, featuring fully equipped kitchens, create a homely atmosphere that appeals to guests, a characteristic that quickly drew in notable visitors like the poet Rafael Alberti and the actress Nuria Espert, who became frequent patrons due to the establishment’s serene environment, discretion, and outstanding service.
The City of 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 evolving society, ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini came into existence and has adapted alongside it to the current day.
The Hotel Today
The anniversary of ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini serves as a chance to discover the hotel as it stands today, showcasing all the improvements made to the facilities, particularly over the past five years. It has retained the concept of spacious rooms outfitted with kitchenettes, akin to apartments, while still providing the amenities typical of a hotel.
Among the most popular initiatives in recent years is the High Altitude Brunch, available every Saturday and Sunday from autumn through spring, enjoyed on its stunning terrace, renowned for offering breathtaking views of the Royal Palace. Guests can access it directly from the street via a glass elevator that provides a glimpse of an impressive eight-story mural created by Brazilian artist Rogerio Fernandes.
Upon entering ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini, one is enveloped in an atmosphere of art. Alongside Fernandes’ artwork, the installations created by the urban art collective Boa Mistura can be found in various locations throughout the building, including the expansive graffiti piece “Del Corazón al Cielo” (From the Heart to the Sky), which spans 62 square meters. The contributions of painter Cristina Gamón in the hotel lobby and breakfast area, along with Oscar Vautherin’s sculptures flanking the entrance and the piece titled “Five Left Feet” at the reception, round out the impressive roster of artists featured here.
A Hotel with an Automobile Museum That Transport You to Early 20th Century Madrid
One of the standout features of Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini is its private classic car museum, situated in the basement of the hotel. This museum was created in honor of José Luis García, following a request from his daughters, Charo and Monica García Silgo.
This captivating collection features remarkable automotive treasures, including a 1915 Ford T, a sophisticated Hispano-Suiza, and a unique section named España Cañí, showcasing iconic vehicles like biscuters, motorcycles, and the renowned Vespa from the film “Amanece, que no es poco.”
Hotel guests enjoy complimentary access to this area, which has become an essential stop for enthusiasts of both automobiles and Madrid’s cultural heritage. The expansive images adorning the walls, sourced from the ABC newspaper archives, take visitors back to an era when these vehicles were integral to the cityscape.
Commemorative events with privileged 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 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.
