Depósito de Plaza Castilla

Can you imagine a hidden oasis high above the vibrant Plaza de Castilla? This unassuming giant, the Depósito de Plaza Castilla, silently watches over the city. It’s not just a landmark. It’s a vital part of Madrid’s history. The Depósito de Plaza Castilla, also known as the second elevated reservoir, was built in 1952. It stands on the site of a previous reservoir, constructed in 1939. The current Depósito de Plaza Castilla has a capacity of 3,800 cubic meters. It towers approximately 40 meters above the ground. This impressive structure is part of the Canal de Isabel II system, providing water to the city. The Depósito de Plaza Castilla replaced an earlier elevated reservoir on Calle de Santa Engracia. That original reservoir was designed by Diego Martín Montalvo, Luis Moya Idígoras, and Ramón de Aguinaga. It was built between 1907 and 1911. The Depósito de Plaza Castilla isn’t just a functional water tower. It’s a testament to Madrid’s growth and its ongoing need for resources. At the beginning of the 21st century, the area surrounding the Depósito de Plaza Castilla underwent a significant remodel. This renovation helped to integrate the reservoir into the modern landscape of Plaza de Castilla. Now, the Depósito de Plaza Castilla stands as a quiet sentinel, providing a vital service while bearing witness to the ever-changing city below.