A San Sebastián Landmark Begins a New Chapter as Hotel Palacio Bellas Artes, Curio Collection by Hilton

Hotel Palacio Bellas Artes, Curio Collection by Hilton has reopened in San Sebastián, breathing new life into a 1914 Beaux Arts landmark that once housed one of Spain’s earliest cinemas. After four decades closed to the public, the building has been meticulously restored and reimagined as a cinematic-inspired hotel experience.

Highlights of the Transformation
- 81 rooms and suites designed around the building’s cinematic heritage, with categories like Gallery, Amphitheatre, Grand Stalls, and special suites such as the Front Box and Cupula Suite.
- Each room doubles as an exhibition space, featuring site-specific works curated by Basque artist Lander Andonegi.
- Interiors by Isabel López Vilalta + Asociados, blending light, shadow, and movement to honor the building’s theatre origins.

Gastronomy at Lotu
- New restaurant Lotu, led by acclaimed Basque chef Andoni Luis Aduriz (of two-Michelin-starred Mugaritz).
- Menu reinterprets classic 20th-century dishes — from beef Wellington and sole meunière to Basque specialties like txangurro and chuleta.
- Flexible dining style: casual and formal dishes can be enjoyed at the same table.
- On-site bakehouse ensures fresh breads and pastries daily.

Cultural & Historical Significance
- Originally designed by architect Ramón Cortázar, a pioneer of Basque architectural style.
- Restoration led by Ignacio Quemada, including reconstruction of the dome and façade detailing.
- Located in the city center, steps from San Sebastián’s Old Town, pintxos bars, galleries, theatres, and Atlantic coastline.

Hilton’s Perspective
- Simon Vincent (EVP & President, EMEA, Hilton): “San Sebastián is one of Europe’s most compelling destinations… this opening strengthens our offering in Spain, where we now have more than 65 hotels trading and in the pipeline.”

- Jenna Hackett (SVP, Lifestyle Brand Management, Hilton): “Palacio Bellas Artes is a celebration of San Sebastián’s cultural identity, bringing together cinematic heritage, thoughtful design and timeless gastronomy.”

This reopening not only preserves a historic landmark but also positions San Sebastián as a destination where cinema, culture, and cuisine converge in a luxury hospitality experience.