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history mystery
Which Historic Hotels Worldwide hotel was originally a train station in a major European capital? The Editory Riverside – Santa Apolónia (1865)
Located along the banks of the Tagus River in Lisbon, Portugal, The Editory Riverside – Santa Apolónia began its rich history as a train station. Now a luxury historic hotel with modern elegance, its inception in the 19th century to its transformation into a premier historic hotel is a fascinating story.
In the mid-19th century, Lisbon faced significant transportation challenges. The city’s growing population and surge of visitors created a pressing need for a reliable transportation system. José Bernardo da Costa Cabral, a prominent nobleman, spearheaded the initiative to establish a national railway network. In 1844, he founded the Public Works Company of Portugal (Companhia das Obras Públicas) to oversee this ambitious project.
Planners selected the site of the former Convento de Santa Apolónia, on the banks of the Tagus, to build the new Santa Apolónia station. Official approval for the station came in 1854, and construction began in 1862 under the direction of João Evangelista de Abreu. The station, designed by architect Angel Arribas Ugarte, featured a grand Neoclassical-style design that utilized high-quality materials like limestone and wrought iron. This includes a grand portico and round-arch supports which give the structure a stately and timeless appearance. The station’s original design features a 384-foot, U-shaped structure. This layout allowed for efficient movement of passengers and goods throughout the elegant landmark building.
When it opened in 1865, Santa Apolónia station quickly became a bustling center of economic and social activity. It served as a major point for passengers traveling across Lisbon and the Iberian Peninsula. The station’s popularity led to the addition of more routes, including the Cascais Line (a scenic railway route in Portugal that connects Lisbon with the coastal town of Cascais), and it underwent several expansions in the early 20th-century.
By the 21st century, Santa Apolónia was one of Portugal’s top train depots. Recognizing the need to preserve its historical significance while catering to modern travelers, the southern wing of the station was transformed into a luxury hotel. The Editory Riverside – Santa Apolónia opened its doors in 2022 and features 126 guestrooms and upscale dining options.
The Editory Riverside – Santa Apolónia stands as a testament to Lisbon’s rich history and its ability to adapt and evolve. From its origins as a vital transportation hub to its status as a luxury hotel, this iconic location continues to captivate visitors.
This has been a Historic Hotels History Mystery.
For more fun facts, trivia, and historic highlights, check out our History Mystery pages for Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide.
