Gazing up at the Edificio España, it’s hard not to feel a sense of awe. This towering giant, nestled in the heart of Madrid’s Plaza de España, has witnessed a fascinating history. The Edificio España wasn’t always a hotel. When it first opened its doors in 1953, it was a symbol of post-war prosperity, the tallest building in Madrid at 117 meters. The architects, brothers Julián and José María Otamendi, envisioned a multi-use space. The Edificio España housed a luxurious hotel with 360 rooms, bustling offices for 300 businesses, and 184 apartments. It even boasted a shopping center and a rooftop pool, a true testament to its opulence. However, its reign as Madrid’s tallest was short-lived. Just four years later, the Torre de Madrid, also designed by the Otamendi brothers, surpassed it. Interestingly, both buildings stand side-by-side, a testament to the brothers’ architectural prowess. Over the years, the Edificio España changed hands numerous times. It faced periods of neglect and even closure. Despite these ups and downs, it remained a significant landmark in Madrid’s skyline. Today, the Edificio España has been revitalized and reborn as the Hotel Riu Plaza España. This four-star hotel, with its elegant neo-Baroque style, stands as a reminder of Madrid’s ever-evolving cityscape. The building’s concrete structure, brickwork, and limestone facade speak to its rich past, a past that continues to captivate visitors from all over the world.
Club de Tenis Alameda
Twenty-three hectares of pure bliss. That’s the Club de Tenis Alameda. Imagine a sprawling oasis just five minutes from the