Hotel Les Trois Rois, also known as Drei Koenige am Rhein, boasts a rich history intertwined with legends and significant historical events. While its official inception date traces back to its first mention in records, lore suggests its existence as an inn as far back as the medieval era in 1026. According to tales, Emperor Conrad II, alongside his son Henry III and Rodolphe, the last King of Burgundy, convened within its walls, immortalizing the site as the meeting place of the Three Kings.
Formally inaugurated as a grand hotel on 16 February 1844, Les Trois Rois stands as a testament to architectural brilliance, with Amadeus Merian initially shaping its design. Later, in 2006, Christian Lang spearheaded a meticulous renovation, preserving its grandeur for generations to come.
Throughout its existence, the hotel has witnessed pivotal moments in history. In 1797, General Napoleon Bonaparte sought lodging within its confines. Notably, in 1901, Theodore Herzl, the visionary father of modern Israel, graced its halls during a Zionist Congress, possibly sowing the seeds for the enduring affinity of orthodox Jews for Switzerland.
Today, Les Trois Rois remains a revered venue for both societal and state affairs, with the city's elite choosing it for family gatherings and important diplomatic receptions. Its picturesque setting along the banks of the River Rhine adds to its allure, complementing its status as a premier destination among famous Swiss hotels.
Anecdotes further embellish the hotel's narrative, such as the peculiar incident involving distinguished composer and conductor Pierre Boulez. In late 2001, Boulez found himself rudely awakened by law enforcement officers, who confiscated his passport due to remarks he made in a 1967 interview regarding the architecture of the Basel Opera House. Despite this bizarre turn of events, Les Trois Rois remains an exemplar of Swiss hospitality, standing shoulder to shoulder with iconic establishments like Geneva's Des Bergues and Zurich's Baur Hotels.
