The Palace, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid: A Historic Icon Reborn

Madrid’s hospitality landscape has been enriched with the grand reopening of The Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid. Following an extensive two-year restoration, this legendary landmark—formerly known as The Westin Palace, Madrid—has been meticulously reimagined to blend historic grandeur with contemporary sophistication.

Located in the illustrious Barrio de las Letras, The Palace stands at the epicenter of Madrid’s artistic and cultural heritage. Surrounded by icons such as the Prado Museum, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, and Retiro Park, the hotel is an integral part of the Paisaje de la Luz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its restoration enhances Madrid’s luxurious accommodation offerings, inviting global travelers to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant history and modern elegance.

The meticulous restoration of The Palace was led by Ruiz Larrea Arquitectura, bringing back the building’s original 1912 splendor. The project spanned 8,000 square meters, revealing the historic “Palace color” – a harmonious blend of warm beige and terracotta hues. Ornate floral and garland motifs, hidden for decades, have been delicately uncovered, adding to the hotel’s timeless charm.

A highlight of the restoration is the iconic stained-glass dome, designed by Eduardo Ferrés i Puig in 1912 and crafted by the master glaziers Maumejean. Composed of 1,875 glass panes, the dome has been meticulously restored to its original brilliance, alongside the grand palm tree chandelier, reinstated beneath the dome to evoke the hotel’s historic elegance.

A Harmonious Blend of History and Contemporary Design

The hotel’s interiors, redesigned by the renowned Lázaro Rosa-Violán studio, fuse classic luxury with modern artistry. Wool carpets featuring mythical creatures and optical illusions guide guests through an enchanted entryway, while bespoke paintings shift perspectives to reveal animal and robotic figures.

The 470 guestrooms and suites are bathed in natural light, reflecting both the historical and contemporary spirit of Madrid. Hand-painted wallpapers evoke El Retiro Park’s lush landscapes, while mosaic-adorned bathrooms depict aerial views of the Royal Botanical Gardens. Elegant furnishings, from marble fireplaces to mid-century chandeliers, create a sophisticated residential ambiance. Adding a refined touch, celebrated Spanish designer Juanjo Oliva has crafted elegant uniforms for the hotel staff, enhancing the property's new identity.

A Culinary Legacy Reinvented

Gastronomy takes center stage at La Cúpula, the hotel’s vibrant all-day restaurant and cocktail bar, set beneath the magnificent glass dome. While preserving its historic charm, La Cúpula introduces modern elements, including curated artwork and 16th-century tapestries. The menu reinterprets classic recipes inspired by past guests, such as Pablo Picasso’s Waldorf Salad and Julio Camba’s Steak Tartare.

A hidden gem within the hotel is 27 Club, formerly known as Museo Bar, paying homage to the literary figures of the Generation of ‘27 who once frequented the space. This refined cocktail lounge serves vintage-inspired drinks such as the 1912 John Collins and Whisky Sour 1927, reinterpreted with a modern twist. The venue also showcases original guest books and an extensive collection of 70 illustrations, preserving The Palace’s storied past.

Immersive Cultural Experiences

Beyond luxurious accommodations and exquisite dining, The Palace offers curated cultural experiences. Guests can embark on a guided exploration of the historic Las Letras neighborhood, where literary icons like Cervantes and Lope de Vega once walked. For art enthusiasts, an exclusive early-morning tour of the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum grants private access before public hours, including a behind-the-scenes visit to the museum’s restoration workshop.

With its seamless blend of historic grandeur and modern luxury, The Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid, reclaims its place as one of the city's most iconic destinations. Whether through its stunning architecture, elegant interiors, or curated experiences, the hotel continues to captivate travelers seeking an unforgettable gateway to Madrid’s cultural and artistic legacy.