The iconic Palacio de la Tinta in Málaga – once the headquarters of the Andalusian Railway Company and later home to the Southern Hydrographic Confederation (CHS) and the Andalusian Water Agency – has been converted into a five‑star hotel that has just opened its doors.
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The origins of this historic building, designed by architect Julio O’Brien, date back to its use as a railway administration office, and its name translates to ink palace, when large quantities of ink had to be transported daily for the manual issuing of tickets.
Eurostars, the hotel chain of Grupo Hotusa, has been responsible for transforming this landmark building, erected in 1908, which is one of the few surviving examples of European modernism with French influence in Málaga.
The property is located on Paseo de Reding, opposite La Malagueta beach, and will continue to preserve the city’s cultural and historical essence. The company has retained its name – Áurea Palacio de la Tinta – and carried out a meticulous restoration that respects Málaga’s architectural heritage.
According to the company, the new hotel has been designed to offer a unique experience closely connected to the city’s history, art and cultural identity. It also aims to create a new hotel, gastronomic and emotionally immersive space.
The interior design draws inspiration from the creative universe of Pablo Picasso, particularly his Cubist period. Through geometric shapes, colour contrasts, and high‑quality materials, the project reinterprets the artistic language of the Málaga‑born painter, incorporating geometric marble flooring, stained glass inspired by Cubism and bespoke decorative elements.
Among the most striking preserved features are the grand main staircase – enhanced by a glass lift – the Patio de los Naranjos, the wooden roof trusses and, of course, the historic façade.
One of the hotel’s most distinctive highlights is its fourth floor, conceived as a large experiential space thanks to its natural light and privileged views of the sea and Gibralfaro Castle. It will host the restaurant, communal areas and a spacious terrace open to both guests and local visitors.
The 141 rooms – all different due to the original layout of the building – have been designed with a warm, timeless aesthetic, combining natural materials, carefully planned lighting and functional solutions focused on comfort.
In addition, the hotel features a restaurant specialising in grilled cuisine and Málaga gastronomy using local produce – Asador Contrapunto – as well as a spa with a thermal circuit and personalised treatments, and five meeting rooms.
