Hotel España Ocean Drive

The building was constructed in 1850 and in January 1859 it opened as Fonda de España. An advertisement in the Diari de Barcelona on December 30, 1858 reported that the establishment would open on the first day of 1859 with everything new. The business quickly emerged as one of the leading places to stay in Barcelona at the turn of the century. Demand was so great that it was one of the most popular fondas among guests at the 1888 Barcelona International Exposition. In the early 20th century, its owners commissioned a complete renovation by Domènech i Montaner between 1902 and 1903. Philippine national hero José Rizal stayed here. In 2010, the Cadarso Group undertook a comprehensive refurbishment with architects Carlos Bassó and Tote Moreno, along with interior designer Mercè Borrell, resulting in the new 82-room Hotel España; today it is managed by OD Hotels as Hotel España Ocean Drive.

Domènech i Montaner's project combined architecture, sculpture, ceramics and painting, achieving a unitary space. He collaborated with Eusebi Arnau, author of the alabaster fireplace, and Ramón Casas, painter of the decorative murals. He also incorporated stained glass, ceramic tiles and innovative technical solutions for ventilation and natural light. The restaurant was divided into three areas by magnificent square pillars. Light entered the central space through a frosted glass skylight. The side areas were decorated with beautiful carved wooden coffered ceilings and glazed mosaic vaults from which hung huge modernist chandeliers. The walls were covered with pink marble slabs with brass sconces.

Hotel España Ocean Drive is located in the heart of Raval, just a few steps from Las Ramblas and La Boqueria market. The Gran Teatro del Liceu is a minute's walk away. The MACBA (Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona) and the CCCB are in the same neighborhood. The Gothic Quarter and Barcelona Cathedral are on the other side of Las Ramblas.