Spain's historic cinema in San Sebastián reborn as stunning hotel

• The Palacio Bellas Artes, one of Spain's earliest cinemas, has been converted into the Hotel Palacio Bellas Artes San Sebastián.
• The hotel is part of Hilton's Curio Collection and features 81 guest rooms.
• Architect Ignacio Quemada led the restoration, preserving the building's Beaux Arts style and iconic dome.
• The hotel's design incorporates cinematic heritage, with room categories and artwork inspired by film.
• The hotel's restaurant, Lotu, is led by chef Andoni Luis Aduriz.

One of Spain's earliest cinemas, the Palacio Bellas Artes in San Sebastián, has been meticulously transformed into the Hotel Palacio Bellas Artes San Sebastián, a new 81-key hotel under Hilton's Curio Collection. The 1914 Beaux Arts building, once a prominent filmhouse, has undergone a significant restoration led by architect Ignacio Quemada. The project focused on reconstructing the building's iconic dome and refurbishing its façade while retaining many of its original decorative elements.

Upon entering, guests are guided through the former stage area and pass under the original proscenium arch, immersing them in the building's cinematic past. The hotel's design philosophy celebrates San Sebastián's cultural identity, blending its cinematic heritage with thoughtful design and gastronomy. Basque artist Lander Andonegi has contributed 81 unique artworks, one for each guest room, inspired by the silver screen.

The accommodation options echo the theatre's legacy, featuring room categories named 'gallery', 'amphitheatre', and 'grand stalls', alongside 'front' and 'corner box' suites. The hotel's main restaurant, Lotu, is situated in the former theatre box across two floors. The name 'Lotu', meaning 'to tie' or 'to connect' in Basque, signifies the historical gathering place for artists and filmmakers. The menu, curated by renowned chef Andoni Luis Aduriz, offers a blend of classic and contemporary dishes.