The emblematic Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini hotel celebrates its 50th anniversary this October. Five decades have passed since it first opened its doors in the heart of the capital, a stone’s throw from the then North Station and at the foot of the Príncipe Pío mountain.
During the vibrant Madrid of the seventies, the idea behind the establishment was so revolutionary that a unique term was created just for it: apartosuites. The spaciousness and coziness of its rooms were designed for extended visits, and thus, from its inception in 1974, it aimed to provide its patrons with much more than mere lodging: an authentic Madrid experience that blended the convenience of an apartment with the amenities of a hotel.
The rooms, featuring fully equipped kitchens, create a home-like atmosphere, a trait that quickly drew numerous notable guests, including the poet Rafael Alberti and the actress Nuria Espert. They frequented the establishment for its serene environment, 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.
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 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 is the High Altitude Brunch, which can be savored every Saturday and Sunday from autumn to spring on its stunning terrace, celebrated for offering breathtaking views of the Royal Palace. Visitors 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 with an Automobile Museum that Transports You 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 fascinating collection includes true automotive gems, such as a 1915 Ford T, an elegant Hispano-Suiza and a special corner called España Cañí, where iconic vehicles such as biscuters, motorcycles and the famous Vespa from the movie “Amanece, que no es poco” are on display.
Hotel guests enjoy complimentary access to this venue, which has become an essential stop for enthusiasts of automobiles and Madrid’s cultural heritage. The expansive images adorning the walls, sourced from the ABC newspaper archive, whisk visitors back to an era when these vehicles were integral to the city’s landscape.
Commemorative Events with Exclusive Views
During the 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. Scheduled activities for November will also feature guided visits to 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.
