American Colony Hotel, 5*****, Jerusalem
Environment For over a hundred years, the American Colony in Jerusalem has been a home away from home for discerning travelers who recognise quality. Immerse yourself in its unique and tranquil beauty, while delving into Jerusalem’s rich past, and add your name to a guest list that includes Lawrence of Arabia, Winston Churchill, Bob Dylan, Uma Thurman, Tony Blair & Mikhail Gorbachev, to name a few. The Main House comprises the original American Colony building and the New Wing. The original building was built in the mid 19th century on the ruins of an older Ottoman style building. Later, a new wing was added, with particular attention paid to making a seamless connection between the older and the newer buildings.
Being responsible The rich history of the American Colony dates back to the late nineteenth century, following a series of tragic events that led Horatio and Anna Spafford, a devoutly Christian family, to leave their home town of Chicago in 1881 in order to find peace in the holy city of Jerusalem and to offer aid to families in distress. They were never missionaries, but aimed at living, as the early Christians did, a simple life with everything in common. With their charitable door open at all times to their Arab and Jewish neighbours as well as Bedouin from around the city and from across the Jordan River, they soon established good relations with the local population and became well known for their acts of benevolence and assistance to the community. People referred to them simply as ‘the Americans.’ The seeds of the American Colony Hotel were sown in 1902, when Baron Ustinov (grandfather of actor Sir Peter Ustinov), finding the Turkish inns of the time unacceptable, needed suitable accommodation in Jerusalem to house his visitors from Europe and America. Before long, the American Colony became a lodging for Western travelers and pilgrims whose expectations were not met by the establishments then existing in Jerusalem. The American Colony Hotel has a unique place in the history of the area, having endured countless challenges and a series of wars. The Colony has always been known locally as a neutral island, remaining outside the turbulent politics of the land.
How you will reside Luxurious rooms, some with spectacular painted ceilings, as well as our extensive American Colony Archive, pamperingly comfortable loft rooms (Penthouse Suites) with generous spa bathrooms. The original roof beams and the old stonework have been preserved and incorporated into the newly restored rooms and suites, several of which have their own private patio or terrace.
How you will eat The Arabesque is the main dining room of the hotel, located in the Main House, famous for international and local wines including some from the many boutique wineries in the area. The Courtyard is the heart of the American Colony Hotel. Shaded by tall mulberry trees throughout the summer and cooled by a central fountain, this leafy outdoor restaurant is warmed by the sun on winter days. Open when weather conditions permit, this is the perfect place for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Val’s Brasserie, overlooking the pool and adjacent to the Cellar Bar, is an informal setting which provides lunch and dinner during the winter months. The Terrace Cafe, situated by the hotel shops and at a focal point in the hotel complex, is the place for a quick pause in your day. The Cellar Bar is Jerusalem’s most enchanting and intimate bar. Floored with ancient pink stone, this legendary bar is a place to unwind for visitors and residents, and a popular meeting place for journalists from across the world. The Summer Bar open during the summer months, is set in the romantic tranquillity of the Palm House garden. You can meet all sectors of Jerusalem’s multi-cultural population along with foreign tourists.
Amenities The new pool is constructed from Jerusalem stone, lined with Italian glass tiles and landscaped with cascading water freatures. The pool uses the latest energy, filtration and water saving technology available. At American Colonial you will enjoy the fitness centre, the Masseuse, swedish style Sauna, and you will find a fully equipped Business Centre. At American Colonial you will find also shops: Munir Barakat “Antiquarian” – is a large selection of antiques, oriental items and carpets. At the Bookshop you will immerse yourself in the region’s history, religions and cultures, or select something from the wide selection of contemporary fiction. The Courtyard Garden is the pride of owners and the joy of guests. Relax in a cool, shaded courtyard full of flowers, or take a moment under an olive tree in the East House Garden. Discover the hidden corners, linger by the fishpond or slow down in one of the other secluded seating areas. This is a functioning herb garden and from it the chef makes his personal selection daily for the kitchen.
About People American Colony is still owned and run by the descendants of the original founding community. Its board of directors is composed of family members who remain closely involved. The Colony is a part of their family history, just as it is a part of the history of Jerusalem.
