Puente Romano’s legacy: from Roman roots to Mediterranean icon
Long before Puente Romano became one of Marbella’s most celebrated resorts, its heart was a historic Roman bridge on the Vía Augusta. The “Puente Romano”, (Roman Bridge) was built in the 1st century AD, and once formed part of the great Roman road network that linked many settlements across southern Spain to Cádiz, and you can take a selfie on it today! This ancient landmark set the tone for a destination where history, style and luxury meet.
In the 1970s, Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe, the visionary behind the neighbouring Marbella Club, saw the potential to create something different. He imagined a resort that blended Andalusian character with international glamour. Designed by architect Melvin Villarroel, the first apartments were built in 1974 with whitewashed façades, terracotta tiles and cobbled squares surrounded by vibrant flowers and lush greenery. This village-style concept was unlike anything else on the Golden Mile.
The next chapter came in 1979 when businessman Mouffak Al Midani transformed the apartments into a full luxury resort. Within just two years, Puente Romano was admitted into the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World group. It quickly became a destination in its own right, offering not only elegant accommodation but also landscaped gardens, swimming pools and authentic dining spaces, all rooted in a deep sense of place.
The resort also became synonymous with world-class sport and entertainment. Tennis legends such as Björn Borg and Manolo Santana helped establish the Puente Romano Tennis Club, while concerts and cultural events drew global stars from Ray Charles to Montserrat Caballé. By the 1990s, Puente Romano had cemented its reputation as Marbella’s stage for both sporting excellence and glamorous gatherings.
In 1995, the Shamoon family took ownership and began guiding Puente Romano into the modern era. Their vision brought extensive refurbishments, the creation of the Andalucía Conference Centre and the addition of iconic new venues including Nobu Hotel and La Plaza. These developments have ensured that Puente Romano remains at the forefront of Mediterranean hospitality without losing its timeless charm.
Today, Puente Romano is more than a resort. It is part of Marbella’s identity, a place where heritage, luxury and lifestyle converge into legacy. From its historic Roman bridge to its modern five-star amenities, Puente Romano continues to embody the sophistication of the Golden Mile and remains a destination that draws the jet set and true lovers of authentic Andalusian living.
