Nestled in the heart of Moscow, the legendary and iconic Metropol stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and vibrant present. Here, passion and sophistication intertwine seamlessly with exceptional service, creating an unforgettable experience. As you embark on your journey through the city’s soul, you’ll encounter captivating stories, legendary names, and extraordinary discoveries that will leave you spellbound.
During our weekend stay at the hotel, we immersed ourselves in its enchanting atmosphere, unraveling its secrets and reveling in its splendor.
The Birth of a Legend
Few people are aware that the Metropol was initially conceived as an opera house. Its origins can be traced back to Savva Ivanovich Mamontov, an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and the owner of the country’s first private opera house. His vision was to create a true palace of the arts in the heart of Moscow, featuring a grand opera hall, art galleries, a luxurious hotel, and a prestigious restaurant. The project was a collaborative effort involving some of the finest artists of their time, including the English architect William Walcott, artists Mikhail Vrubel, Nikolai Andreyev, and many others.
The hotel, which opened its doors in January 1905, quickly became a popular destination for Muscovites. Struck by its grandeur and monumental architecture, they would gather for hours, marveling at the intricate details of its façade. The hotel’s main decoration, the “Princess of Dreams” panel, was a ceramic replica of Mikhail Vrubel’s painting inspired by Edmond Rostand’s play. Sculptural friezes by Andreyev, decorative vases by Vaulin, a glass dome designed by engineer Shukhov, and a quote from Friedrich Nietzsche that read, “Moscow has never witnessed anything like it,” adorned the façade.
Throughout its history, the Metropol has undergone numerous transformations. After a comprehensive renovation and technical refurbishment in 1991, it became one of the first hotels in Russia to achieve five-star status and join the ranks of renowned international hotels.
Since 2013, the Metropol has embarked on a transformative journey to become one of the most modern hotels in the world while preserving its rich historical heritage. The hotel has undergone a series of updates, including the opening of the SAVVA restaurant and the “Shalyapin” bar, as well as the renovation of its rooms, offering a diverse range of accommodations, from Executive Rooms to Ambassadorial Suites. Notably, the unique historic rooms with their original early 20th-century interiors have been preserved, ensuring that the hotel’s past continues to captivate guests.
In an era that demands innovative ideas and solutions, the Metropol stands out with its unique charm. The hotel seamlessly integrates modernity into a rich historical context, creating an experience that is both captivating and timeless.
Every guest at this establishment is enveloped in comfort and impeccable service. They enjoy 24-hour room service, a concierge, a gourmet restaurant, a bar, exquisite breakfasts, a fitness center, and a beauty salon.
Comfort in Every Aspect
The hotel boasts elegant rooms and suites, each meticulously designed to harmonize historical grandeur with the latest amenities, providing an ideal setting for a comfortable stay.
The windows offer breathtaking views of the historic city center and its iconic landmarks, including the Bolshoi Theater, the Historical Museum, and the Alexander Garden.
The guestroom interiors have been meticulously recreated based on original designs from the early 20th century. Many rooms feature antique furniture, luxurious crystal chandeliers, elegant furnishings, and premium amenities such as beds with orthopedic mattresses, smart home systems, minibars, coffee and tea stations, and high-speed Wi-Fi.
Spacious bathrooms with large mirrors, vanities, showers, and bathtubs, complete with all the necessary bath amenities and premium toiletries, ensure a relaxing and pampering experience.
Breakfast at the Fountain
The Metropol Restaurant, a unique hall that has witnessed pivotal historical events shaping Russian history and culture, exudes an exquisite ambiance.
Its impressive stained-glass dome, marble fountain, monumental lamps, and the enchanting melody of a harp create a festive and distinctive atmosphere in the morning. From 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, guests can indulge in sumptuous buffet and à la carte breakfasts.
The breakfast menu, in line with the finest traditions of five-star hotels, offers a diverse array of delectable options to cater to every taste. From delectable fish, meat, and cheese delicacies to various types of porridge, farm-raised dairy products, a pancake station featuring red and pike caviar, egg dishes, seasonal and exotic fruits, fluffy syrniki and cottage cheese casserole, aromatic pastries, and an unlimited selection of tea, coffee, and sparkling wine, there’s something for everyone.
Guests with special dietary needs are also accommodated, with an Asian station, halal products, Lenten options, and healthy choices available.
The breakfast menu was meticulously crafted by the hotel’s brand chef, Andrey Shmakov, in collaboration with chefs Alexander Mishakov and Vitaly Laptinov.
Following the Farm-to-Table concept, they prioritize using the finest farm produce, ensuring a diverse and seasonal selection of ingredients.
Whether you’re a guest or a visitor, the Metropol Restaurant offers an opportunity to celebrate with family and friends over a delightful breakfast. Complement your culinary experience with a guided hotel tour, where you can delve into the rich history of one of the country’s pioneering grand hotels.
Beyond breakfast, hotel guests can embark on a culinary journey by visiting the signature restaurant SAVVA, a Michelin-starred establishment that graces the prestigious Great List rating. Under the guidance of Andrey Shmakov, SAVVA offers a culinary experience like no other. In the evening, unwind at the luxurious and atmospheric cocktail bar “Shalyapin”, a successor to the pioneering cocktail bar that once thrived at the Metropol Hotel.
And if you’re fortunate enough to extend your stay beyond the weekend, be sure to indulge in the Sunday brunches, which are renowned as some of the best in the city.
“White Garden”: A Harmonious Fusion of Body and Soul
Nestled on the second floor of the hotel, the “White Garden” Beauty Center is a tranquil haven of beauty and wellness in the heart of Moscow. From 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, this oasis offers a diverse array of professional services, including aesthetic, hardware, and injection cosmetology, body massages and wraps, floating, hairdressing, makeup, manicures, and pedicures.
During our stay, we visited this elegant “beauty oasis” and indulged in several rejuvenating treatments, including a body massage, facial massage, hair styling, and manicure.
The center’s pride lies in its exceptional craftsmanship and impeccable service. Beyond the common room and massage rooms, guests can also enjoy two VIP rooms, where multiple treatments can be performed simultaneously. Additionally, hotel guests have the convenience of salon services within their rooms, especially beneficial for special events hosted by the hotel. Notably, the beauty center welcomes non-hotel guests as well.
Inscribed beneath the bas-reliefs on the building’s façade is a mosaic of Friedrich Nietzsche’s quote: “Again, the old saying goes: when you build a house, you realize you’ve learned something.” This quote, inspired by Savva Mamontov, resonated with the famous thinker, who saw it as a reflection of his own destiny.
“Metropol” Hotel
Address: Moscow, Teatralny proezd, 2
Instagram: @metropolhotel
Text: Marina Timo
Photo courtesy: EATWEEKGUIDE
