At the heart of Madrid’s vibrant cosmopolitan core, the exclusive Chamberí neighborhood hosts some of last century’s aristocratic homes. Tucked away in this quieter, high-end hamlet is Hotel Santo Mauro: an authentically renovated 19th-century palace-turned-Luxury Collection Hotel housed in the former residence of the Duke of Santo Mauro.
Constructed in the late 1800s, architect Juan Bautista Lázaro designed a French-influenced palace that sets itself apart from the area’s traditionalist style counterparts. An ivory stone exterior accented with soft blue window trimming surrounds the entryway courtyard and lofty iron-and-glass marquee — where carriages used to ride to the front in efforts to protect the duke and his family on rainy days. Steeped in history, the palatial grounds consist of three buildings ensconced by some of Madrid’s most admirable gardens, featuring fountains, terraces, and ancient chestnut trees.
At the helm of the transformation, renowned designer Lorenzo Castillo ensured the palace retained its original ornate architecture enhanced by contemporary decor. Inside the 49 guestrooms and suites, guests will find historic touches infused with luxurious amenities: swarthy-toned velvet canopy beds, bespoke wallpapers, refurbished oak wood floors, and marble bathrooms provide a royal feeling respite. Each suite is teeming with history — specifically “The Duke’s Royal Suite” with midnight blue fabricated splendors, heirloom chandeliers, and beautiful garden views.
Representing that of a Spanish noble house of the 18th century, design eras collide within the hotel’s living and dining room spaces: the Library of Santo Mauro sports warm oak shelving stacked with treasured books and antiques barricaded by thatched doors; the Chinese Lounge displays silver-and-gold oriental wall coverings and Qing Dynasty artworks that nod to the Duke’s travels; and the Red Room reflects pure French Classicism with tufted couches, carpets, and Chateau Toile-printed dressing panels shaded in hues of red.
Paying homage to its Spanish heritage, Chef Rafael Peña spotlights classic recipes mixed with modern flavors at the Santo Mauro Restaurant. Guests can indulge in sharable dishes native to Madrid’s gastronomy scene, including Russian Salad with Crab and Caviar, Acorn-fed Iberian Ham, and Tomato Bread and Spanish “Picos,” followed by a decadent Spanish French Toast with Meringue Ice-Cream to end the meal on a sweet note. After indulging in the feeling of “sobremesa” (the act of lingering by the table after a heavy meal), it’s encouraged to slink into the sophisticated mirror-lined cocktail bar for an aesthetically pleasing libation, or lounge outside in the clandestine garden.
An emblematic oasis into the lives of aristocratic society, modern-day guests will realize that this palace wasn’t built for ordinary patrons… it was built for royalty— and one leaves reminiscing about a ducal existence at the Hotel Santo Mauro.
Top Takeaways
Location: Chamberí, Madrid, Spain
Address: Calle de Zurbano, 36, 28010
Rating: Five-Star
The vibe: An ornate 19th-century palace turned luxurious hotel that toes the line between past and present.
Food + Drink: The Santo Mauro Restaurant serves traditional Spanish cuisine with modern ingredients. We recommend indulging in a late breakfast in the al fresco garden with their selection of freshly baked French pastries along with a Huevos Benedictine de Salmón (an eggs benedict with smoked salmon).
Our Favorite Part of the Hotel: The Duke’s Library lined with untouched books was truly magnificent. Plus, the secret garden outdoor dining area centered by fountains and lush chestnut trees was a close second.
Amenities: Room service; Free WiFi; Breakfast; Bar; Restaurant; 24-hour front desk
What’s Nearby? Sorolla Museum; Puerta de Alcalá; Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum; Plaza de Cibeles; Puerta del Sol; El Retiro Park
Any personal neighborhood recs? Within a short walking distance of many great shops, restaurants, and bars, Santo Mauro is a great place to explore Madrid. Before hitting the shops on Calle de Serrano in Salamanca, we suggest grabbing a pastry from the authentic Alma Nomad Bakery. We also loved TÁCTIL, a ceramics shop nearby offering a variety of in-house pottery and art courses.
Rooms: 49
Pricing: Rates start at $600/night
Closest Airport: Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas Airport
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