Autograph Collection Hotels announces its entrance into Hungary with the inauguration of Dorothea Hotel, Budapest, Autograph Collection. Nestled within three historic buildings in Budapest‘s iconic District V, the hotel pays homage to Archduchess Dorothea, a influential figure of the 1800s credited with bringing significant cultural and economic advancements to the city alongside her spouse, Palatine Joseph. Dorothea Hotel captures the allure of Hungary’s golden era, providing guests with an unexpected sanctuary in the heart of the city, seamlessly blending the past with the present.
Sandra Schulze-Potgieter, Vice President of Premium and Select Brands, Europe, Middle East, and Africa at Marriott International, expressed, “Every Autograph Collection hotel narrates a truly distinctive tale, and Dorothea Hotel, Budapest, Autograph Collection exemplifies this by reflecting the rich history of Budapest through a refined and sophisticated lens. This new addition expands our Autograph Collection Hotels portfolio into one of Europe’s most captivating cities.”
Conceived by the renowned Italian architect and designer Piero Lissoni, Dorothea Hotel seamlessly integrates historical and modern elements. The three buildings, established in different epochs, include Weber (1873), the neo-renaissance former headquarters of the United Budapest Metropolitan Savings Bank; Mahart (1913), the art nouveau former headquarters of the Hungarian River and Sea Shipping Company; and Munnich (1937), a modernist building with art deco and Bauhaus influences. The hotel collaborated with local historic preservation experts to retain key elements from each era, including a remarkable heritage staircase.
Upon entering, guests are greeted by an exquisite ornate ceiling and walls adorned with portraits by Hungarian art and fashion photographer Zoltán Tombor. These playful artworks, depicting women in traditional attire with a modern twist, are also featured in the guestrooms. The hotel’s 216 guestrooms and suites, categorized as contemporary and heritage, offer modern amenities and distinct design aesthetics.
In the heart of the hotel lies the inner courtyard, housing Pavilon Restaurant & Bar, an airy garden oasis overseen by Chef Carmine di Luggo. The restaurant introduces a fresh approach to dining with farm-to-table dishes. The inner courtyard also hosts a succulent herb wall paying homage to Palatine Joseph’s botanical fascination, inspiring the cocktails and dishes across the hotel’s dining venues.
Anton’s Bar & Deli, located upstairs, transitions from an artisanal coffee experience and light bites during the day to a dynamic bar and community space in the evenings. The hotel anticipates the opening of two additional restaurants in 2024, BiBo, an Andalusian Brasserie offering panoramic views of Buda, and AlelÃ, an authentic Italian osteria.
For wellness enthusiasts, the Spa, spanning a generous 650 square meters, offers a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, and fitness center. The spa provides holistic body treatments using Babor Cosmetics in three treatment rooms, including a couple’s room.
