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 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 what it is today. The Sabatini Gardens, which provided the hotel its name, had been in development since the 1930s, following the demolition of the Royal Palace’s stables. It wasn’t until 1978 that they were officially opened to the public. The grandfather of the current director, Bernardo García, who owned one of the earliest SEAT dealerships in Madrid, was responsible for constructing the ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini right in front of them, thereby broadening his entrepreneurial ventures.
Like him, numerous Spaniards chose to embark on ventures that were anticipated to thrive at that moment. The dictatorship of General Franco was evidently approaching its conclusion, and the nation increasingly identified with a blossoming Europe. Nearby, the area that had once hosted the Cuartel de la Montaña was now home to the Temple of Debod, meticulously transported stone by stone from Aswan. The skyline of Madrid was beginning to inspire dreams of a contemporary city within a modern world.
No remnants remained of the washerwomen who once descended the Cuesta de San Vicente towards the river, nor of their refuge, which was torn down in the 1930s. Likewise, there was no sign of the first public swimming pool in Madrid, known as “Los baños del Niágara,” which vanished in favor of Bernardo García’s concession, and now occupies what has become a parking lot adjacent to the hotel.
In this dynamic society, ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini came into existence and has adapted alongside it up to the present day.
The Hotel Today
The anniversary of ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini serves as a chance to explore the current state of the building, showcasing all the renovations made to the facilities, particularly over the past five years, while still preserving the idea of spacious rooms outfitted with kitchenettes, resembling apartments, yet complemented by the services 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.
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 Featuring an Automobile Museum that Whisks You Back to Early 20th Century Madrid
One of the great attractions of Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini is its exclusive classic car museum, located in the basement of the building. It was designed in memory of José Luis García at the request of 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 become an essential stop for enthusiasts of automobiles and Madrid’s cultural heritage. The expansive images adorning its walls, sourced from the ABC newspaper archive, whisk visitors back to an era when these vehicles were integral to the city’s scenery.
Celebratory Events with Exclusive Views
Throughout October, the hotel will commemorate its 50th anniversary with special events held on its breathtaking terrace, offering the finest views of Madrid’s Royal Palace. Upcoming activities in November will also feature guided tours of the classic car museum and a charity flea market.
“This 50th anniversary is a particularly significant milestone for us, and we aim to celebrate it with everyone who has contributed to our journey, as well as those visiting for the first time,” remarks Charo García Silgo. “We have observed the city transform over the years, and we take pride in being a venue where tradition intertwines with modernity, where, despite embracing the latest technologies, our greatest strength 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.
