The building that once housed the Monte de Piedad, located in Plaza de las Descalzas, is no longer a pawnshop so don't be surprised when you pass by and find yourself standing in front of a 5-star luxury accommodation. For its new purpose, it has been completely refurbished, but a large Baroque portico has been preserved on its façade, the work of artist Pedro de Ribera, which dates back to 1733.
This hotel, a brand of the most exclusive Marriott International hotel chain, has 177 rooms, 21 suites and 2 Penthouses, with stylishly modern decor and posh detailing by Ian Schrager, co-owner of the accommodation and creator of the hotel boutique concept. The hotel’s spectacular suites boast a separate living room and sleeping areas, many offering a panoramic view of the Plaza de las Descalzas and include the option of connecting rooms. The Penthouses, distributed on two levels, include floor to ceiling windows and feature stunning views of the Palacio Real, the Almudena Cathedral and the Gran Vía.
The Spa, located on the lower floor, is a cosy and intimate space in dark wood and decorated with Baroque chandeliers. There are five cabins, one with a private steam bath, along with a list of treatments including the signature clay massage, using products from the Spanish brand Natura Bissé. The wellness journey continues in the 24-hour Gym, featuring state-of-the-art fitness equipment including cardiovascular machines with personal flat screen TVs, free weights, stretching area and complimentary towels.
As for its culinary offer, two restaurants stand out, which are run by internationally acclaimed chefs: Enrique Olvera and Diego Muñoz.
The 4th floor is home to the hotel’s oasis, overlooking the typical roofs of the city. Here, you will find Oroya, the restaurant run by the Peruvian chef, Diego Muñoz, which is a glazed space that is reminiscent of a greenhouse. It serves a relaxed, tapas menu with dishes to share, which tell the story of Peru’s cultural history with influences from Spain, Africa, Italy, China and Japan. Outside, against the backdrop of the spectacular views over the city, Oroya terrace is a seductive green space featuring a fireplace and a vine-covered pergola, which is perfect for drawn-out lunches with friends and family. This terrace also boasts the largest infinity pool in Madrid and the Pool Bar. It is an ideal spot to sip cocktails and snack on small bites from one of the 60 sun loungers and 10 Balinese beds whilst admiring the quintessential views of Madrid’s red rooftops against the backdrop of the setting sun.
The Jerónimo restaurant, run by chef Enrique Olvera, is located in the Plaza de las Descalzas and has its own entrance through a Baroque door. Its cuisine is influenced by the authenticity and generosity of Mexican gastronomy, as well as the excellence of the local produce. It can seat 150 diners and occupies a space divided into four areas, in which colour is the main feature of a careful decoration. This is all presided by a long green marble bar and simple white oak floors, where guests and visitors can meet to savour a delicious cocktail.
The hotel also has a space for signature cocktails in the Punch Room, the Lobby Bar.
To round off the hotel’s offer, it boasts a series of flexible spaces for meetings and events, all with natural light and equipped with state-of-the-art technology. They include a large light-filled two-storey ballroom, three studios with dividing walls for customised set-ups, a conference room and a foyer designed to feel like a living room.