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 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 looked completely different than it does now. The Sabatini Gardens, which inspired the hotel’s name, had been in the works since the 1930s following the demolition of the Royal Palace stables. They weren’t officially opened until 1978. The grandfather of the current director, Bernardo García, who owned one of Madrid’s earliest SEAT dealerships, constructed the ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini in front of the gardens, thereby expanding his business venture.
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.
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 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 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.
One of the standout initiatives in recent years has been the High Altitude Brunch, available every Saturday and Sunday from autumn through spring on its stunning terrace, celebrated for offering breathtaking views of the Royal Palace. Access to the terrace is provided 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 Transport You to Early 20th Century Madrid
One of the major highlights of Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini is its unique classic car museum, situated in the basement of the building. This museum was created in honor of José Luis García, following a request from 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 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.
Celebratory Events with Exclusive 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 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 is a unique opportunity to rediscover a place where history is alive in every corner and hospitality is felt from the first visit. Half a century of excellence, comfort and unparalleled views of Madrid.
