History

History

1906. The Royal Family spends their summer holidays in Santander until 1931, the date of their abdication. Naturally, the need arises for certain services worthy of the King and his court: a Royal Hotel, Casino, Racetrack...

1912. The town of Santander donates the Palace of La Magdalena to King Alfonso XIII.

1915. The King encourages the creation of a luxury hotel, a casino and a racetrack befitting the summer holiday needs of the court and his retinue that accompanies him. A draft of the project is presented, designed by Javier González Riancho and José Pardo Gil.

1916. The works are begun.

1917. 12 July: Inauguration of the Hotel Real.

1931. End of the royal summer holidays in Santander.

1933. The UIMP initiates their summer courses, lending a cultural importance that obliges the great thinkers of the period to go to Santander, where they seek lodging at the Hotel Real.

1936 – 1939. Spanish Civil War. The Hotel Real is used as a barracks and a hospital.

1941. The Hotel becomes home to the victims of the terrible fire of Santander. 400 buildings have succumbed to the fierce fires that were exacerbated due to strong southern winds.

1952. The Plaza Porticada and the Festival International de Santander encourage the arrival of the great geniuses of contemporary music in Santander, where they seek lodging at the Hotel Real.

1972. I edition of Paloma O’Shea Piano Competition uses the Hotel as their headquarters and continues to use it throughout the years.

1988. The Husa Chain starts managing the Hotel and after extensive renovations, the Hotel starts to remain open throughout the year.

2003. Inauguration of a luxurious Thalassotherapy Centre.