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.
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 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.
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.
Current State of the Hotel
The anniversary of ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini provides a chance to discover the hotel as it stands now, following numerous renovations made to the facilities, particularly over the past five years. The essence of its spacious rooms, furnished with kitchenettes like apartments, has been preserved, all while offering the amenities of a hotel.
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 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 Featuring an Automobile Museum That Whisks You Back 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 captivating collection features remarkable automotive treasures, including a 1915 Ford T, a sophisticated Hispano-Suiza, and a unique section dubbed España Cañí, showcasing iconic vehicles like biscuters, motorcycles, and the well-known Vespa from the film “Amanece, que no es poco”.
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 privileged views
During the entire month of October, the hotel will commemorate its 50th anniversary with special events held on its magnificent 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 charity flea market.
“This 50th anniversary is a very special moment for us, and we want to share it with all those who have been part of our history and those who wish to meet us for the first time,” says Charo García Silgo. “We have witnessed the city change and we are proud to be a place where tradition meets modernity and where, despite having the latest technologies, our main asset is still our human team.”
This 50th anniversary presents a rare chance to re-experience a space where history resonates in every nook and the warmth of hospitality is palpable from the very first visit. Five decades of outstanding service, comfort, and breathtaking views of Madrid await.
