Memorable travellers

The first memorable traveller to visit La Fonda de los Príncipes was Hans Christian Andersen, the Danish writer who stayed in 1862, just one year after the building opened.

In his book «A Visit to Spain», he acknowledges being as impressed by how luxurious and modern La Fonda was as by the infernal noise of Puerta del Sol, which he described as an anthill beneath his feet. Water carriers, stagecoaches, vendors, and gatherings were part of daily life.

Andersen sought the soul of Madrid, was thrilled to watch the life of the square from the balconies, and was fascinated by the contrast between the bustle of the street and the peace of the interior.

Four years later, in 1866, Henry Blackburn, art critic for the London Society, stayed here to write his book «Travelling in Spain in the Present Day». From these very balconies he observed sunrises and sunsets over Puerta del Sol, which he would portray in his book.

We find it curious how his travel guide remains very relevant today. You can discover this for yourselves by asking for a copy of the book at reception.

The most internationally known guest is the Argentine writer and poet Jorge Luis Borges, who between 1919 and 1921, staying at what was then called the Pensión Americana, wrote his first ultraist poems.

You can see a commemorative plaque on the exterior of the building.

Borges's room is number 416, on the fourth floor, on the corner with 3 balconies overlooking Tetuán and Carmen streets.

And now, you.

You