A delightful baroque façade contrasts with a spectacular minimalist interior. This is El Hotel Palacio Marqués de San Felipe y Santiago de Bejucal, a space full of contrasts that will undoubtedly surprise its guests. Located in the historic Plaza de San Francisco, this hotel not only offers an unforgettable experience, but also an immersion in the rich history of Havana.

The hotel is located in the Plaza San Francisco, a place of great historical importance. Around 1512, the order of St. Francis of Assisi settled on the island, and in 1547 established the first convent in the village of San Cristobal de La Habana. The square, which in its beginnings housed some docks, the first shipyards and a fountain to supply water to ships, witnessed the evolution of the city. In 1836, the iconic Lions Fountain, sculpted in Carrara marble by the Italian artist Giuseppe Gaggi, was placed in the centre of the square.

The Hotel Palacio Marqués de San Felipe y Santiago de Bejucal is an 18th century architectural marvel with a sophisticated, clean and eclectic décor. Formerly owned by Don Sebastián de Peñalver, the building has maintained its rich heritage and has incorporated the most innovative services and original contemporary touches. The house was originally described in 1771 as a “high and low house, of rafters and tiles” and over time underwent significant transformations.

he history of the hotel is fascinating, having hosted illustrious visitors such as the Marquis de Montjoie and the mathematician François Nobion during the 18th century. In 1798, two members of the retinue accompanying the French princes, the Dukes of Orleans and Montpensier and the Count of Beaujolais, stayed in this residence. It was also the residence of the Count of Jaruco and Mopox in the last months of his life, father of the famous Countess of Merlin. These historical events add an air of nobility and grandeur to the ambience of the hotel.

From its terrace on the sixth floor, guests can enjoy panoramic views of Havana, overlooking the majestic Plaza de San Francisco and the iconic Fuente de los Leones. The terrace is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the charm of the old city, especially at sunset, when Havana is bathed in warm golden light.

The lineage of the Núñez del Castillo family, Marquis of San Felipe y Santiago and Condado del Castillo, has a deep history in Cuba. This family, which settled on the island in the late 17th century, founded the town of San Felipe y Santiago de Bejucal in 1711. The house of the Marquis of San Felipe and Santiago has witnessed the evolution of Havana, from its colonial era to its transformation into a commercial space in the 19th century.

The hotel combines the best of both worlds: a rich history and contemporary design. Its minimalist interiors contrast with the opulence of its baroque exterior, creating a unique space that reflects Havana’s glorious past and vibrant present. This combination of architectural and historical elements offers guests a unique experience, where they can immerse themselves in history while enjoying all the modern comforts.