Picture this. A grand building stands before you. This is the Palacio de Gamazo in Madrid. It’s more than just a building. It’s a silent witness to Madrid’s rich history.
The Palacio de Gamazo boasts a fascinating story. It was built by the renowned architect Ricardo Velázquez Bosco. He also designed the Velázquez Palace in Retiro Park. Construction finished in 1888. The palace was originally commissioned for the Counts of Gamazo. Imagine the opulence. The elegance. The grandeur of its first inhabitants.
The Palacio de Gamazo’s history is filled with unexpected twists. In the 1970s it was almost completely demolished. It was in a ruinous state. However a group of architecture students occupied the building. This bold action stopped the demolition. Their bravery saved a significant piece of Madrid’s heritage. The building was eventually declared a national historical-artistic monument. This was on March 2 1978.
Following a two-year renovation led by architect José Luis Picardo the Palacio de Gamazo was reborn. The Société Générale the French bank became its tenant. Later the philatelic company Afinsa took up residence. Then came the Afinsa stamp scandal. This led to the company’s liquidation. In 2016 the building went up for auction. It was finally acquired by Previsión Sanitaria Nacional in 2016. Today it serves as their headquarters.
The Palacio de Gamazo’s dual-toned facade is striking. Gray stone and red brick create a beautiful contrast. This stands as a reminder of its turbulent past. It also embodies Madrid’s enduring spirit of resilience. The Palacio de Gamazo stands tall. It’s a testament to the power of preservation and the enduring beauty of historical architecture. It is a must-see on your Madrid adventure.