Nestled in the heart of New Orleans’ iconic French Quarter, Hotel Mazarin has encapsulated the history, culture, and luxury of the neighbourhood. Yet, New Orleans has been a fertile ground for tales of the supernatural, and has spawned a series of haunted hotels in the area such as iconic Hotel Monteleone and La Pavillon.
While the luxurious hotel is undoubtedly a haven of comfort, the question often comes to mind: is it haunted?
Contrary to popular belief, Hotel Mazarin is not haunted by any ghosts or ghouls. While there were several reports by guests of the hotel, they were mostly debunked or were simply made up in a bid to rile up the review sections.
History of Hotel Mazarin
The hotel was originally named as Saint Louis Hotel, and catered to visitors staying in the vibrant French Quarter. The hotel is known as the “Diamond of the French Quarter” due to its centralised location and iconic European style facade.
In 2010, the hotel underwent a multi-million dollar renovation by J Collection, a real estate group that manages a portfolio of hotels throughout New Orleans.
With the revamp, the hotel was renamed as Hotel Mazarin, after the 7th Century Italian-born pontiff Cardinal Jules Mazarin; he was a significant figure in French history, particularly known for his role as a trusted advisor to the French crown.
The hotel reopened in 2011 as a 102-room boutique hotel completed with several facilities including a courtyard, a fitness center, a business center and the popular Patrick’s Bar Vin, which was listed by Gayot as the top 10 Best Wine Bars in the U.S.A. 2023.
Reported Hauntings at the Hotel
In a city with a storied past and a penchant for the supernatural like New Orleans, rumors and tales of hauntings often circulate, especially around historic establishments.
Over the years, Hotel Mazarin have also ‘suffered’ the same fate. There were stories of guests experiencing unexplainable sounds along the hallway, as well as mysterious mist fogging the mirrors in the guestrooms. In one review, a guest claimed to have seen a translucent individual walking through the fountain in the courtyard in the middle of the night.
However, many of these tales are often made up by guests or staff who claim to have had supernatural experiences while staying or working in Hotel Mazarin.
In the absence of concrete evidence or documented investigations, it’s challenging to confirm the validity of such reports. While the allure of the supernatural can add a layer of mystique and perhaps popularity to the place, Hotel Mazarin have approached these accounts with a critical eye.
Directions to Hotel Mazarin
The hotel is located at 730 Bienville Street in the heart of the French Quarter.
To visit Hotel Mazarin from Jackson Square, walk west along Chartres Stress for approximately 0.3 miles (~8 minutes) and turn left into Bienville Street. From there, walk for appoximately 0.1 mile and you will find Hotel Mazarin on the left.
Alternatively, if you are coming in from Canal Street, turn right into Royal Street and walk for 0.2 miles (~5 minutes) before turn left into Bienville Street. You will see the lobby of Hotel Mazarin on the left.
