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South America's Historic Hotels

Last Updated

August 2, 2023

Immerse yourself in the fascinating stories of the past as you explore our curated selection of historic hotels, perfectly suited for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts. Each hotel on this page boasts a rich heritage, unique architecture, and a storied past that has been meticulously preserved to offer guests an authentic experience of bygone eras. These accommodations promise to transport you to a different time, allowing you to relive the opulence, charm, and intrigue of yesteryears while enjoying modern comforts and amenities. So pack your bags, feed your curiosity, and embark on an unforgettable journey through time at these remarkable historic hotels.

Immerse yourself in the fascinating stories of the past as you explore our curated selection of historic hotels, perfectly suited for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts. Each hotel on this page boasts a rich heritage, unique architecture, and a storied past that has been meticulously preserved to offer guests an authentic experience of bygone eras. These accommodations promise to transport you to a different time, allowing you to relive the opulence, charm, and intrigue of yesteryears while enjoying modern comforts and amenities. So pack your bags, feed your curiosity, and embark on an unforgettable journey through time at these remarkable historic hotels.


Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel - Cusco, Peru



Constructed on the foundations of Amaru Qhala's Inca palace in the 16th century, this former monastery faced significant damage due to an earthquake in 1650. During its restoration, a charming Baroque chapel was added, which remains open for visitors today. The Belmond Hotel Monasterio is now acknowledged as a historical landmark by Peru's National Institute of Culture.

 

The exterior of the Belmond Hotel Monasterio, with its unassuming whitewashed stone walls, belies the exquisite interiors that await within. Upon entering the hotel, guests are greeted with elegant stone arches, cobblestones, and original oil paintings. The walls of each bedroom showcase beautiful oil paintings, and the hotel itself boasts one of Cusco's most impressive collections of 18th-century colonial religious art.

 


A stunning courtyard filled with fragrant gardens and a fountain serves as the centerpiece of the hotel. A 300-year-old cedar tree stands tall within the courtyard, symbolizing the living history of this extraordinary location. Initially serving as the Seminary of San Antonio Abad, this historic hotel maintains its tranquil ambiance while providing guests with a rich sensory experience.


Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel - Cusco, Peru



Nestled in the heart of Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel, stands as a testament to the city's rich and storied past. This exquisite 16th-century former convent has been meticulously restored to preserve its historic charm while infusing it with modern luxury. As you step through the heavy wooden doors, you are transported to a time when Spanish conquistadors roamed the cobblestone streets, and the whispers of Inca legends echoed through the corridors.


The Palacio Nazarenas has a storied past, having once been home to the elite ladies of the Nazarenas Convent. Its walls have borne witness to the tumultuous history of the region, from the height of the Inca civilization to the arrival of the Spanish and the birth of a new culture. The hotel's architecture is a harmonious blend of Inca stonework, colonial frescoes, and contemporary design – a living museum that pays homage to the diverse cultural influences that have shaped this remarkable city.



As you explore the hotel's labyrinthine passageways and courtyards, you'll uncover hidden treasures and fascinating stories at every turn. Marvel at the original Inca walls that have stood for centuries, or relax in the serene central courtyard, where a gently murmuring fountain provides a soothing backdrop for quiet contemplation. The hotel's art collection, featuring works by renowned local artists, offers a window into the soul of this vibrant and ever-evolving city.


For history buffs seeking a luxurious and intellectually stimulating vacation experience, Palacio Nazarenas delivers in spades. Indulge in the hotel's world-class amenities, including a sumptuous spa that incorporates ancient Andean healing techniques and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Enjoy a gourmet meal at the on-site restaurant, Senzo, where the chef masterfully combines traditional Peruvian flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. And when you're ready to venture beyond the hotel's walls, the knowledgeable concierge team can arrange bespoke tours and experiences that delve deep into Cusco's rich history and culture.



Palacio Nazarenas' prime location in the heart of the historic city center allows guests to experience the best of Cusco right on their doorstep. Just steps away from the hotel, you'll find the Plaza de Armas, the stunning Cusco Cathedral, and the vibrant San Blas artisan quarter – all steeped in history and brimming with tales waiting to be discovered.


In choosing to stay at Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel, you're not just booking a luxurious retreat – you're immersing yourself in the living history of Cusco. The hotel's enchanting blend of past and present, its commitment to preserving the region's cultural heritage, and its exceptional guest experiences make it the perfect destination for discerning travelers seeking an unforgettable journey through time.



Four Seasons Casa Medina - Bogota, Columbia



Nestled in the vibrant heart of Bogotá, the Four Seasons Casa Medina offers its guests an unparalleled experience of luxury and culture. Surrounded by a multitude of historical sights, visitors can easily explore the rich heritage of Colombia's capital city. A short stroll away lies the magnificent Museo del Oro, showcasing the largest collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts in the world. The nearby La Candelaria district, with its cobbled streets and colorful colonial architecture, transports travelers back in time. Here, they can discover the iconic Plaza de Bolívar, home to the grand Catedral Primada and the neoclassical Capitolio Nacional. Art enthusiasts will find inspiration at the renowned Botero Museum, where works from celebrated Colombian artist Fernando Botero are exhibited alongside international masterpieces.


As one of the few colonial hotels in the city, Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogota looks and acts very differently from its contemporary neighbors. Officially recognized as a monument of cultural significance by the Colombian Ministry of Culture, the property possess strong European regal airs and graces inherited from 1946, when the building was designed by Santiago Medina Mejia. By staying at the Four Seasons Casa Medina, one not only indulges in exceptional comfort but also steps into the very soul of Bogotá's history.


MGallery Santa Teresa Hotel - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil



Nestled within a historic coffee plantation dating back to 1850, the opulent Santa Teresa Hotel RJ – MGallery offers an authentic boutique-style urban sanctuary in the heart of Santa Teresa neighborhood. The hotel's enchanting design and architecture are influenced by the golden age of coffee and cocoa, striving for sophistication and elegance through the use of noble and eco-friendly materials native to Brazil's lands and cultures.

 

Boasting a prime location, the hotel is conveniently situated near the city center and prominent tourist attractions such as Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana Beach, and Ipanema. It is less than ten minutes away from Santos Dumont Airport, Municipal Theater, National Historical Museum, Tijuca Forest, Flamengo Park, Marina da Gloria, Museum of Tomorrow, MAR Museum, AquaRio, and Porto Maravilha.


Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel - Machu Picchu, Peru



Situated beside the enigmatic Machu Picchu, the Sanctuary Lodge, a Belmond Hotel, is the sole hotel in the vicinity, offering guests the unique opportunity to be the first to step into the ancient Inca citadel at daybreak. Just a stone's throw away from the mystical ruins, indulge in sunrise breakfasts with breathtaking views of the archaeological marvel and immerse yourself in the surrounding tranquility.

 

Tucked within Peru's enchanting Sacred Valley, the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge presents an unrivaled experience for history aficionados eager to uncover the region's ancient treasures. With its privileged location beside the renowned Machu Picchu citadel, visitors enjoy exclusive access to this magnificent archaeological site, plunging into the depths of the rich Incan legacy that envelops the lodge. Each room boasts elegant Peruvian textiles and artwork, seamlessly merging modern opulence with historical charm. The well-informed staff stand ready to impart intriguing knowledge about the area's storied history, transforming your stay at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge into not merely a vacation, but an enthralling voyage through time.


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