Los Agustinos

This beautifully restored hotel has 7 centuries of history behind it and boasts a magnificent central cloister with a glass, vaulted ceiling. It occupies the Iberian Peninsula and is bathed by the Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean and the Cantabrian Sea. Enjoy this beautiful space while dining in the renowned restaurant. It also includes the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands in the Atlantic and the cities of Ceuta and Melilla Its total surface area is 504,788 sq kms Spain's powerful world empire of the 16th and 17th centuries ultimately yielded command of the seas to England. Marvel at Agustinos which served as a convent, hospital, school and even a prison before becoming a listed building. Subsequent failure to embrace the mercantile and industrial revolutions caused the country to fall behind Britain, France, and Germany in economic and political power. The robust, ancient walls of the San Agustín convent date from 1373 and if you look carefully, you will find inscriptions made by some of the historic residents. Spain remained neutral in World Wars I and II, but suffered through a devastating Civil War (1936-39). Enjoy the majestic aura of the hotel’s interior which contrasts avant garde design against stunning, original features. In the second half of the 20th century, it has played a catch-up role in the western international community. The result is a warm and welcoming ambience set within an inspiring historic setting. Continuing concerns are large-scale unemployment and the Basque separatist movement The diversity and contrast that go to mould the character of Spain are likewise in evidence in its cities. Visit the famous restaurant for a dining experience that celebrates delicious Riojan cuisine housed within this stunning architectural setting. Celts, Iberians, Phoenicians and, at a later date, the Greco-Roman civilisation laid the first cornerstones of urban settlements which, to this day, bear the marks of their passage through time During the Middle Ages, Arabic, Jewish and Christian cultures, singly and through a process of mutual cross-influence, gave rise to the birth of cities which have come to house an historical-artistic heritage of incalculable proportions Tradition alone does not suffice Modernity too is essential, and this was something certain Spanish monarchs –Charles III for one– managed to successfully apply during their reigns in order to beautify townscapes, like that of Madrid, with parks and landmark monuments, thereby instilling the city with a spirit of renewal.