A HISTORIC HILTON IS HERE TO STAY

Over 80 years of history lies at 125 Second Ave., the site of Hotel Andaluz. At least that’s what it’s called now. When hotel magnate Conrad Hilton built this building in 1939, it was, naturally, a Hilton Hotel. Hilton himself hailed from San Antonio, New Mexico— believe it or not, before he became wellknown as the patriarch of the famed Hilton family, Hilton served as a Republican representative in the first NM State Legislature from 1912-1916. The hotel, now called Hotel Andaluz, has been labeled as part of the Curio Collection by Hilton Hotels since 2019. With the Hilton name restored to the building, the life of this historic piece of the city has come full circle so to speak. The building’s resilience is perhaps a signal of how strong the legacy of Conrad Hilton continues to be here in Albuquerque.

As the first modern high-rise hotel in New Mexico, the building has been noted by architecture enthusiasts as a site that encapsulates both old-school and modern styles. Carved woodwork, brick coping on the roof, and our state’s famous earth-colored stucco are all the doing of Anton Korn, the architect who designed the 10-story hotel.

There have also been some famous residents of the old Hilton Hotel: Lucille Ball, Zsa Zsa Gabor, and Lyndon B. Johnson to name a few. Possibly one of the most interesting facts about Andaluz is its role during WWII; for one, Los Alamos scientists used the hotel as a waiting spot for the results of the atomic bomb test at Trinity. Just a month before that, atomic Soviet spy David Greenglass met up with Harry Gold at the hotel to exchange atomic secrets. That first name sound familiar? Greenglass’ sister is Ethel Rosenburg— both she and her husband were executed for their spying pursuits.

In 1984, the hotel was renovated and renamed La Posada De Albuquerque— it operated under the name until 2008, when, along with a hefty $30 million renovation, the name was once again changed to Hotel Andaluz, its current moniker. That same year, the building was added to the National Historic Registry, which protects its stunning facade and interior from much tampering. Nowadays, Andaluz residents love the modern amenities—a rooftop bar, ample conference facilities, and of course the old-world de- cor the building is famous for.

Andaluz prides itself on the unique architectural designs that have remained for the entirety of the building’s existence. For example, there’s a small sitting nook that acts as a makeshift library complete with a fully stocked bookcase. As you’re reading, you can enjoy a cozy fireplace for that extra homey ambiance. Of course,

Andaluz has also recognized the need to stay somewhat modern, which is what their contemporary Casablanca room is all about. There’s really not much that Andaluz hasn’t accounted for in their amenities, which is just one part of how it has stayed at the top of many Burqueños’ lists for favorite staycation spot. ET