Beneath its neo-Gothic facade lies a tale of medical innovation. We are standing before the Instituto Homeopático y Hospital de San José. It stands as Spain’s first hospital dedicated to homeopathy.
This building’s story began in 1874. Architect José Segundo de Lema oversaw its construction. By 1878, it became the first modern building in Chamberí. Its U-shaped design includes a central body and two side pavilions. Inside, there are four nursing rooms and a covered area for recovering patients.
But how did this unique institution come to be? The Sociedad Hahnemanniana Matritense played a key role. This group of homeopathic doctors wanted a place to practice and teach homeopathy. So, they launched a public fundraising campaign in 1845. They gathered 433,877 reales. Yet this amount fell short of the project’s needs.
Construction started on May 26, 1873. However, work often stopped due to lack of funds. Dr. José Núñez y Pernía, Marqués de Núñez, stepped in. He personally covered the additional costs. His dedication ensured the hospital’s completion. The total cost reached about 991,712 reales.
The Instituto Homeopático y Hospital de San José officially opened on February 2, 1878. Soon after, the Fundación Instituto Homeopático y Hospital San José formed on April 4. The hospital joined this foundation. It received 750,000 pesetas to cover potential financial shortfalls. This decision caused disagreements within the Sociedad. Disputes continued almost until the end of the 20th century. Academic activities began at the institute on November 12.
Princess Isabel de Borbón visited in October 1879. She was accompanied by María Soledad Torres Acosta. The princess accepted the honorary presidency. She also covered the annual cost of one adult hospital bed.
The founder, Dr. Núñez, passed away on November 10, 1879. His funeral took place in the hospital. He was buried in the garden until 1994. His remains were then moved to the chapel.
Locals knew the hospital as “Hospitalillo de la Habana.” This was due to the street’s name at the time. In 1892, the foundation gained recognition as a Private Charity. This put it under the control of the Ministry of Health.
Joaquín Núñez Grimaldos, Marqués de los Salados, boosted the institution between 1926 and 1936. He improved the homeopathic center and modernized the building.
During the Spanish Civil War, the hospital served different purposes. It was first a war hospital. Later, it provided meals for Madrid residents. After the war, it housed soldiers. Medical activities resumed in May 1939. Staff had to search for missing medical equipment.
By 1970, the focus shifted to residential care. The building’s upkeep suffered. In 1980, the main building closed. Elderly residents moved to another facility. The neighboring building at Eloy Gonzalo, 5, was adapted for them.
The Ayuntamiento de Madrid carried out work to preserve the main structure. In 1997, the building was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural. This led the Comunidad de Madrid to take charge of its reconstruction.
Today, the Instituto Homeopático y Hospital de San José stands as a testament to medical history. It houses an important collection of homeopathic literature. A homeopathic pharmacy and museum are also on site. Since 2007, it has focused on medical training. Its future remains uncertain.