Restored Hotel Maria Cristina Unveiled on Its 100th Anniversary

Hotel Maria Cristina in San Sebastian is now open to guests after an extensive restoration, just in time for its 100th anniversary. Run by Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc, Maria Cristina was originally designed by famed French architect Charles Mewes for its namesake, Queen Maria Cristina, and has been adorning San Sebastian since 1912.

The renovation of this grand hotel, home to the San Sebastian Film Festival for more than half of a century, cost 25 million US dollars. The restoration works have preserved the hotel’s powerful feminine touch, with its Belle Epoque and Art Nouveau characteristics.Â

Hotel Maria Cristina has been a beloved landmark in this city since 1912 and has been centre stage to the San Sebastian Film Festival for more than half of a century,” continues Paul James, Global Brand Leader, St. Regis and The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts. “We are delighted to reintroduce this historic icon and unlock the exceptional and indigenous experiences of this destination to our guests, as only The Luxury Collection brand can.”

Hotel Maria Cristina is part of Starwood’s strategy to restore its iconic venues under the Luxury Collection Hotels brand. Hotel Alfonso XIII in Seville has already been reopened after going through a meticulous restoration project, while others will be completed and start receiving guests in the next 12 months - Prince de Galles in Paris and The Gritti Palace of Venice.