Inspired by King Alfonso XIII's desire to build a luxury hotel to rival the Ritz in Paris and opened in 1910, the Hotel Ritz in Madrid shares with the Ritz hotels in Paris and London a reputation as one of the original grand luxury hotels in Europe. The Hotel Ritz opened its doors in 1910 in the presence of his majesty King Alfonso XIII. The hotel was designed and built under the personal supervision of the legendary hotelier Cesar Ritz, from whom the name was adopted. Opposite The Prado and The Thyssen Museum, the Hotel Ritz is frequented by the crowned heads of Europe. Here you will find the world's most powerful decision makers and members of the show business community. The standard of its service and unrivalled prestige has earned it a place among the world's ten best hotels. Hotel Ritz Madrid is located at heart of Madrid, between the Retiro Park, Teatro de la Zarzuela, and the three most important museums: The Prado, The Thyssen Bornemisza and The Centro de Arte Moderno Reina Sofia. The hotel is within walking distance of the financial district, Madrid's stock exchange, and some of the best shopping in the city. Hotel Ritz Madrid is located 15 kilometers/9 miles from Madrid's Barajas International Airport, and 19 kilometers/12 miles from Torrejon Airport. Facilities at Hotel Ritz include all you would expect from one of the world's finest hotels, including a health club, 24 hour business center, accessible facilities, elegant salons and meeting rooms, and world class restaurant. Services include 24-hour room service and 24-hour concierge, butler service, currency exchange, multilingual staff and valet. 137 and 30 suites offer the finest accommodations, each individually designed with magnificent and unique hand made carpets, embroidered linens and antique furniture. This classic design is combined with the latest technology, including high-speed Internet connections and cable television. Bathrooms are beautifully appointed in marble with gilded gold appliances. All rooms and suites feature mini-bar, climate control, plush bathrobes, in-room movies, hair dryer, trouser press, dataports, IDD 2-line phones, voice mail, work desk, in-room safe large enough for a notebook pc and daily newspaper. Video players and fax machines are available for in-room use on request.