Paradors are much more than just accommodation; they are true custodians of history, art and culture. Many of these establishments are located in monuments of great value, such as castles, monasteries, palaces and convents, while others are a reflection of modernity and the spirit of their time. What unites them all is the echo of historical events, political meetings, legends, and moments that have left their mark, such as the visit of artists from the world of music and film. On this tour, we will discover how these places have witnessed unforgettable moments for some of these celebrities.

Ronda, in Andalusia, has one of the most spectacular Paradors. Located in the Plaza de España, this establishment overlooks the impressive 120-metre high gorge, the Tajo de Ronda. The Parador de Ronda stands out, not only for its natural beauty, but also for its role in pop culture. In 1995, Madonna chose this Parador for her accommodation during the recording of her video clip Take a Bow, inspired by the world of bullfighting.

Madonna's visit to the Parador became one of the most talked about moments in its history. In order to maintain her anonymity, the artist used a private entrance and stayed in two rooms: room 215, used as a bedroom, and room 216, converted into a gymnasium.

Despite her desire to film in the Plaza de Toros de Ronda, the Real Maestranza de Caballería did not allow Madonna to do so, as they considered that the image she would project was not suitable for such an emblematic setting. As a result, the scenes were finally shot in Antequera.

One of the most interesting anecdotes about Madonna’s stay claims that her double also stayed at the Parador, serving as a distraction so that Madonna could leave without being seen. It is also said that, during a stroll through the old quarter of Ronda, her bodyguard had to carry her in his arms to avoid the city's characteristic cobblestones.

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Just a few steps from the Plaza Mayor of Chinchón is the Parador de Chinchón. For years, this former 17th century Augustinian convent, with its glazed cloister and beautiful gardens, has been a much-loved haunt for artists of all kinds. In the 1980s, the American singer John Denver, at the height of his career, stayed at this Parador when his brother celebrated his wedding there. At the same time, artists such as Tina Turner also visited the Parador. The singer stayed in room 108 for a week, for the presentation in Europe of her album, Break Every Rule (1986).

The British singer Sade also visited Chinchón. Sade lived in Madrid for a few years and spent many weekends at this Parador. On a national level, well-known artists such as Ramoncín, Joaquín Sabina and Luis Eduardo Aute also visited the Parador. The latter, a more frequent visitor, chose the accommodation as a source of inspiration, taking the opportunity to compose.

The Parador de Chinchón has become the perfect refuge for musical inspiration, and has witnessed the creative moments of great musical figures. The Parador's golden book was even signed by the Dire Straits guitarist Mark Knopfler during his visit in 2018.

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The Parador de Santiago de Compostela, one of the oldest in Spain, has a link to the history of Pope John XXIII and rock legend Mick Jagger. This historic building, located next to the Cathedral of Santiago, witnessed the stay of the Rolling Stones lead singer in 1999. During his visit, Jagger stayed in the famous Cardinal's room, a room with a magnificent Mudejar coffered ceiling that left a deep impression on him. Jagger himself, on his visit, acknowledged that the Parador de Santiago de Compostela was one of the most special places he had ever been in his life, and his stay became one of the most memorable anecdotes of his Non Security tour.

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In 1963, at the height of their career, the Beatles decided to take a break and decided to visit the Canary Islands. They all travelled to the islands except John Lennon, who preferred Malaga. During their visit, they spent a couple of days in Gran Canaria and then toured Tenerife, where, of course, they visited the Cañadas del Teide National Park. On the way up, they stopped at the Parador de Cañadas del Teide, a refuge at an altitude of over 2,000 metres. In this lunar landscape setting, with the majestic Teide as a backdrop, the band members enjoyed a rest on the way while taking in the breathtaking view.

It was here, in the mountains, that the Beatles, on their way to stardom, experienced one last moment of normality before their album Please Please Me reached number one in the UK charts. The Liverpool quartet’s visit to the Parador has become a milestone in the history of this emblematic establishment.

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The Parador de Cuenca, formerly the convent of San Pablo, is one of the city's most emblematic destinations. Located in the impressive Hoz del Huécar, it offers unparalleled views of the famous Hanging Houses. This convent, which was already a symbol of the city before being converted into a Parador, was also the setting for a very special event: the wedding of Cuenca singer José Luis Perales and Manuela Vargas in 1977. The ceremony, which took place in the convent church, became the "event of the year" in the city, attracting thousands of people.

Since then, the Parador de Cuenca has been beloved by Perales, who, throughout his career, has returned to the place that inspired him so profoundly. His love for the city is reflected in his lyrics, and his connection with the Parador is so strong that he even chose it for his accommodation during his last tour.

In addition, the Parador has become a meeting place for other musicians, such as Rozalén, Kiko Veneno, De Pedro... For more than 10 years, the esplanade of the Parador's façade has been one of the main stages during Estival Cuenca, a music festival that fills the city with rhythm every summer.

BOOK AT THE PARADOR DE CUENCA