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.

Portrait of Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe
Portrait of Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe

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.

Puente Romano construction site 1974
Puente Romano construction site 1974

Luxury transformation

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.

View of the Tennis Club under construction, 1979 and Bjorn Borg the first manager of the club
View of the Tennis Club under construction, 1979 and Bjorn Borg the first manager of the club

The Tennis Club

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.

La Plaza at Puente Romano has always hosted the most marvellous parties
La Plaza at Puente Romano has always hosted the most marvellous parties

The modern era

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.

Sean Connery arrives at Puente Romano. Right: Julio Iglesias & Isabel Preysler
Sean Connery arrives at Puente Romano. Right: Julio Iglesias & Isabel Preysler

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.

To this day, walking through the perfectly manicured grounds of Puente Romano resembles walking through a charming quaint Spanish town
To this day, walking through the perfectly manicured grounds of Puente Romano resembles walking through a charming quaint Spanish town

Properties for sale in Puente Romano

Beautiful apartment with sea views in the exclusive Oasis de Marbella

This property represents a truly exceptional opportunity in the real estate market: an elegant apartment located in Oasis de Marbella, one of the most exclusive developments on the Golden Mile, with pleasant sea views and...

€795,000 PRRE-16552
  • 2 Beds
  • 2 Baths
  • 125 m²Total
  • 108 m²Built
  • 17 m²Terraces

Elegant, contemporary groundfloor duplex flat in the exclusive EPIC Marbella

For those seeking exceptional contemporary living in Marbella's most prestigious residential corridor, this elegant duplex apartment within EPIC Marbella delivers outstanding proportions, sophisticated architecture and one of the finest addresses on the Golden Mile. Completed...

€4,850,000 PRRE-16532
  • 4 Beds
  • 4 Baths
  • 390 m²Total
  • 288 m²Built
  • 102 m²Terraces

Luxury duplex penthouse with private pool in designer Dolce and Gabanna complex

Located in the heart of Marbella’s prestigious Golden Mile, this unique four-bedroom duplex apartment is the epitome of sophisticated coastal living. Set within a luxurious gated development just a 10-minute walk from the beach, this...

Price on Application PRRE-16531
  • 4 Beds
  • 4 Baths
  • 1,293 m²Total
  • 421 m²Built
  • 660 m²Terraces