Historic Center of San Salvador: The Strongest New Investment Zone in the Country
- infoalturasv
- Dec 4
- 4 min read
The Historic Center of San Salvador is experiencing an unprecedented boom in investment and development. In 2024, this iconic area has become a prime location for those seeking solid and profitable opportunities. The influx of capital, along with the arrival of high-profile companies and innovative real estate projects, confirms that investing in El Salvador in 2025 hinges on understanding the potential of the Historic Center of San Salvador.
Amount of investment and economic growth in the Historic Center
During the first half of 2024, direct investment exceeding $150 million was reported in the Historic Center of San Salvador. This amount includes both public and private projects, with a strong emphasis on the rehabilitation of historic buildings and the creation of modern commercial spaces.
$90 million allocated to real estate projects in the Historic Center, including facade renovations, construction of offices and commercial spaces.
$60 million in urban infrastructure, improving streets, lighting and security to attract more visitors and businesses.
This influx of capital has generated a 25% increase in the number of people visiting the Historic Center compared to 2023, reaching an average of 120,000 monthly visitors in 2024. This growth is partly due to the opening of new businesses and the improvement in the cultural and gastronomic offerings.
Project / Initiative | Type / Use | Investment Amount (approximate) | Status / Details | Fountain |
Cardedeu Hotel Historic Center | Boutique hotel / accommodation | ~ US$ 6 million ( El Salvador in English ) | Opened — 31 rooms (6 suites with historic views) ( El Salvador in English ) | 2025 ( El Salvador in English ) |
Garten Hotel + Garten Social Club | Boutique hotel / mixed use (hotel, spa, restaurant, rooftop, events) | No public amount has been announced ( El Salvador News ) | Under construction/restoration of heritage building (former Morazán Building and International Club) ( El Salvador News ) | planned for operations ~ 2026 (pre-bookings) ( El Salvador News ) |
Various restaurants, cafes, shops and stores in the Historic Center | Commerce, gastronomy, retail | Part of the US$136 million invested in 2024 in private projects in the restaurant/retail sector ( derechoynegocios.net ) | Many already operating since 2024–2025; broad upswing in openings in renovated areas ( El Salvador in English ) | 2024–2025 ( derechoynegocios.net ) |
Global private investment under the management of the Historic Center Authority of San Salvador (APLAN) | Multiple uses: commerce, tourism, hospitality, catering, renovations | US$164 million in private investment accumulated since 2023 ( ennewssv.com ) | Area undergoing urban redevelopment/revitalization; projects in various phases ( ennewssv.com ) | from 2023 to 2025 ( ennewssv.com ) |
High-profile companies that are investing in the Historic Center
Several nationally and internationally recognized companies have decided to open doors in the Historic Center of San Salvador, consolidating confidence in this area as a hub for economic development.
Grupo Roble , one of the leading real estate developers in Central America, inaugurated its new office building on Avenida España in March 2024, with an investment of $25 million.
Banco Agrícola opened a corporate branch in the restored historic building of Plaza Libertad, betting on the financial revitalization of the area.
The Hilton Garden Inn hotel chain announced the opening of a 120-room boutique hotel, which is expected to begin operations at the end of 2025.
Tech startups like Kubo Labs and Tech Solutions SV have established offices in coworking spaces within the Historic Center, boosting innovation and local employment.
These companies not only contribute capital, but also generate direct and indirect employment, strengthening the local economy and improving the quality of life in the area.
Historic Center Real Estate Projects That Make a Difference
One of the most prominent commercial spaces currently undergoing renovation is Cafe Studio , located on 1st Street East, one of the main thoroughfares of the Historic Center. The project offers:
264.62m² of space between 2 floors and a mezzanine.
Fully modernized infrastructure.
Imported fine finishes and materials
Strategic location near tourist and administrative points.
This project is available on the "RENTALS | COMMERCIAL" page and represents a unique opportunity for companies looking to establish themselves in an area with high pedestrian traffic and growing economic dynamism.
In addition, other real estate projects in the Historic Center include the transformation of old buildings into luxury residences and mixed-use spaces that combine housing, commerce, and culture. These developments attract investors interested in diversifying their portfolios and taking advantage of the area's appreciation.
Key statistics reflecting the rise of the Historic Center
In 2024, the Historic Center of San Salvador received an average of 1.44 million visitors, including tourists, workers, and residents.
The real estate sector reported an 18% increase in property values compared to 2023.
Formal employment in the area grew by 22% , driven by new business openings and service projects.
The occupancy rate in commercial premises reached 95% , reflecting the high demand for spaces in this area.
These data demonstrate that investments in the historic center are not only revitalizing the area, but are also generating a tangible and sustainable economic impact.
Why investing in El Salvador 2025 depends on the Historic Center
The Historic Center of San Salvador offers a unique combination of history, culture, and economic opportunities. For those looking to invest in El Salvador in 2025, this area represents:
High profitability due to the constant appreciation of properties and growing demand.
Diversification of investments with real estate projects in the Historic Center that include commerce, offices and housing.
Access to dynamic markets thanks to the arrival of national and international companies.
Institutional support with urban rehabilitation programs and facilities for investors.
Investing in this area is betting on a future where economic growth and cultural preservation go hand in hand, generating benefits for all stakeholders.
- ALTURA
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