Ever dreamt of ice skating in Madrid? That dream becomes reality at Centro Comercial Palacio de Hielo. Let’s uncover the story of this popular leisure complex.
Centro Comercial Palacio de Hielo opened its doors in November 2003. It quickly became a Hortaleza district landmark. But its history began long before. Construction started in 1994. The project faced controversies and delays. Issues ranged from environmental concerns to political irregularities.
María Jesús Sánchez had the original idea. As a mother of a figure skater she wanted an ice center in the capital. She proposed the idea in 1992. The city council doubted her financial stability. The project was awarded to Equidosa. This company was part of Dreams Cinema.
The initial plan was a smaller pavilion with a 3000-person capacity. It included an ice rink a swimming pool a sauna and a gym. Over time the project evolved. It became a large commercial center.
Centro Comercial Palacio de Hielo spans eight floors. Four floors are dedicated to parking. There is space for 1459 vehicles. The complex boasts over 32600 square meters of commercial space. You’ll find 59 stores inside.
The Olympic-sized ice rink is the centerpiece. It measures 1800 square meters. A folding roof covers the rink. 1800 seats surround the rink. Here you can enjoy skating hockey and curling. The center even has figure skating and curling schools.
Movie buffs rejoice. Centro Comercial Palacio de Hielo features 15 cinema screens. These are now known as mk2 cinemas. Previously they were called Dreams cinemas.
Hungry? Ruta 77 offers a variety of international cuisines. Find it on the upper floor. There are ten food stands in a 600 square meter space. Acclimatized outdoor terraces add to the experience. Other restaurant chains are located on the upper and ground floors.
Looking for more fun? Centro Comercial Palacio de Hielo offers a bowling alley. There is also an 18-hole mini-golf course and a gym. Children can enjoy the Cityplaykids area. It features a ball park trampolines and a mini bowling alley.
In 2020 the ice rink served as a temporary morgue during the COVID-19 pandemic. This was due to the saturation of Madrid crematoriums. It became a symbol of the fight against the disease in Madrid.
From 2021 to 2022 the center underwent renovations. These included interior and exterior upgrades. The lighting was updated and decorative elements were added. The main entrances and much of the facade were also renovated.
Gentalia took over management of the commercial center in April 2022. They replaced Equipamientos Deportivos y de Ocio S.A. who had managed it for nearly 20 years.
Today Centro Comercial Palacio de Hielo continues to be a popular destination. It offers a unique blend of shopping leisure and entertainment. So come experience the magic of ice and more at Palacio de Hielo.