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Due to their grand nature, some hospitable places deserve the description of being “fit for a king.” But how about three kings? Known as one of the oldest hotels in Switzerland, the Grand Hôtel Les Trois Rois has seen its fair share of legendary historical figures and even true royalty.
Records show that hotel lodgings under the name “Drei Könige,” or “Three Kings,” have been located on this spot in Basel since 1681 (that’s quite a large guestbook). However, there wasn’t any royal involvement in the founding of the establishment. WIth the Rhine river acting as an essential trade route in Western Europe, the hotel was named due to its purpose of hosting the many rich merchants that would pass through Basel on their journeys – like the “Magi” or the Biblical Three Kings who traditionally traveled from far away to bring rich gifts to the baby Jesus. The moniker was used for many inns and taverns at that time, and would remain the official name of the hotel until 1986, when it was changed to the French version of “Les Trois Rois.”
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While an important hotel since its inception (Napoleon even met Swiss officials here in 1798), it was not until 1841 when Johann Jakob Senn acquired the property and transformed it into a luxury hotel designed to attract important figures and rich leisure travelers. Designed by Basel-architect Amadeus Merian in the Belle Epoque style, Senn’s ownership would create the reputation of offering an experience usually reserved for nobility. Since then, the hotel has hosted the likes of Queen Elizabeth II, Pablo Picasso, Goethe, Sartre, and even the Dalai Lama.
Today, the luxury five-star hotel is grander than ever, offering opulent rooms situated on the ever-roaring Rhine. Restored to feature decor reminiscent of its 19th Century redux, it even features a “Napoleon Room” inspired by the famous guest who once banqueted on the premises. Whether dining at its three-Michelin starred restaurant Cheval Blanc (there’s a “three theme” here) or looking out on the bustling Basel streets below, one can truly feel like they are living the lavish lifestyle of not one but many kings.
