What if the walls of ancient palaces, riads, and kasbahs could speak? In these restored properties, their stories are whispered through every carefully curated detail: old stones, sculptures and murals tell of times passed. Read along as we spotlight architectural treasures transformed into luxurious, eco-conscious boutique hotels.
Rehabilitating a historic property and transforming it into a boutique hotel without sacrificing the beauty and architecture of the past requires enormous effort
It often takes years to navigate legal approvals and delicate craftsmanship. However, a select few enthusiasts dare embark on this exciting adventure, rescuing forgotten treasures—sometimes from literal ruin—that travelers can now enjoy in all their former splendor. Today, we highlight four properties that have been brought back to life thanks to the vision of their restorers.
Solo Palacio
Solo Palacio is a 15th-century palace, listed as part of Asturias’ heritage under the name Palacio de Miranda Quirós. It is located in an exclusive area with unmatched views in the Las Ubiñas Natural Park, in the north of Spain. This enclosed property consists of multiple buildings that exemplify Asturian rural palace architecture.
The palace takes its name from the Miranda family, whose coat of arms is displayed by the entrance. One of the palace’s owners served as an ambassador to England during the reign of King Henry II, while another was appointed by King Philip II of Spain as a delegate in the administration of justice in Mexico in 1568.
The renovation process took two and a half years and involved 22 people, including two full-time carpenters and a stonemason. Traditional craftsmanship was revived to honor the construction methods of the 15th and 16th centuries.
For the rehabilitation and decoration project, the lead designer received the prestigious Laus Bronze award for “Small and Medium Business Brand Identity.” The award is given annually by the Association of Graphic Design and Visual Communication, a non-profit private entity that represents professionals, studios, agencies, schools, and companies in Spain dedicated to graphic design and visual communication.
Today, it features 11 exquisitely designed apartments ranging from cozy spaces perfect for couples to expansive lofts and two-bedroom apartments, ideal for families or small groups.
Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & Spa
Known as The Palazzo Rosso, Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & Spa has a captivating history. Once home to Ostuni’s first mayor, Don Paolo Tanzarella, its walls reflect the city’s turbulent past. Located steps from Remembrance Park, this historic stone building has always been central to Ostuni’s social and cultural life, serving as a hub where cart drivers awaited assignments and conspiracies were formed.
In the early 19th century, Italy was still divided into eight states. Don Tanzarella, a member of the insurrectionary movement “Giovine Italia,” secretly hosted prominent patriots in the Palazzo’s lounges and bedrooms to discuss their goal of transforming Italy into a democratic republic. These gatherings ultimately succeeded, as Ostuni became the first city in Puglia to declare Italy’s unification on June 26, 1860. Just 40 days later, Tanzarella was appointed the city’s first mayor, focusing on urban development and liberal ideals. Upon his death in 1897, he bequeathed his estate to his eldest son, including the Palazzo and its furnishings.
The Palazzo was repurposed over the years, even serving as the barracks for the Italian Customs and Financial Police. However, it remained empty for over 40 years until it was revitalized by its current owners. They’ve restored the impressive cathedral ceilings and decorated the 15 rooms and suites with a blend of old and new art, objects, and furnishings.
The oldest sections of the building date back to the 1700s and feature fireplaces, stone vaults, and frescoes like “Jesus and the Samaritan.” During restoration, a wooden door with peepholes typical of 17th-century cloisters was discovered, indicating that Palazzo Rosso may have once housed a convent.
Removing layers of green and brown paint revealed stunning neoclassical frescoes from the 18th and 19th centuries. At that time, religious representations had fallen out of favor, replaced by mythological beasts, playful dragons, and gryphons. It was here that Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & Spa found the charming dragon that became their iconic logo.
Kasbah du Toubkal
Originally the summer home of a local feudal chief, the Kasbah du Toubkal was in a state of disrepair when it was acquired. After several years of hard work, the Kasbah opened in 1995 and has since hosted travelers and explorers seeking to venture 60 kilometers outside Marrakech for a few days, enjoying the views of Jbel Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa.
For the reconstruction, local laborers employed traditional Berber building techniques and materials, with everything transported by hand or on the backs of mules. Power tools were not used, as electricity did not reach this remote region until 1997.
Its location, high above a waterfall-fed stream where villagers bathe and wash their laundry, is opposite a handful of primitive adobe villages clinging to the rocky mountain face beneath the snow-dusted Mount Toubkal. Hollywood director Martin Scorsese found it an ideal setting for his film Kundun, about the Dalai Lama, when the site was temporarily converted into a Tibetan monastery.
Today, Kasbah du Toubkal offers fourteen rooms with ensuite bathrooms, including a three-bedroom family house.
Riad Siwan
Tucked away in the Marrakech Medina, Riad Siwan was once the 19th-century palace of the Khaloufi family. To restore its former glory, skilled artisans from all over Morocco meticulously revived the intricate plasterwork, four-meter-high cedar doors, and sculpted ceilings. Modern touches, like rain showers, heating, and a naturally sun-warmed pool, have been seamlessly integrated into this historic gem.
Life at a typical Riad turns inward, reflecting the Islamic design principle of privacy. ‘Riad’ means ‘garden’ in Arabic—a fitting name for this tranquil space, where trees, arcades, and fountains create a lush, cooling oasis.
This restoration project is the result of three years of planning. Original architectural features are combined with contemporary elements. Wall niches, common in traditional Moroccan homes, display work from local artists. The Riad offers 7 suites of varying styles and sizes, each with its unique design, comfort, and atmosphere.
A Tribute to the Past
Whether in Spain, Italy or Morocco, these unique boutique hotels are far more than just luxurious retreats. They are a tribute to past cultures and architecture, honoring the heritage of those who once created this timeless beauty. The careful revival of traditional building techniques, which are often more sustainable than modern construction methods, significantly reduces CO₂ emissions. Renovating historic properties not only preserves the architecture of bygone eras, but also promotes a more responsible future. These projects reduce the carbon footprint of new buildings and combine cultural heritage with sustainability – for a more efficient and conscious way of traveling.
