Palacio del Marqués de Salamanca – Fundación BBVA

Did the grand façade of Palacio del Marqu\u00e9s de Salamanca always exude such quiet elegance? It’s hard to imagine the boisterous celebrations that once echoed within these walls. Today, the Palacio del Marqu\u00e9s de Salamanca stands as a dignified landmark on Paseo de Recoletos, home to the Fundaci\u00f3n BBVA. This palace, inaugurated in 1858, offers a glimpse into Madrid’s rich history during the reign of Isabel II. Designed by Narciso Pascual y Colomer, the architect behind the Congreso de los Diputados, the Palacio del Marqu\u00e9s de Salamanca was an architectural marvel of its time. Its Italian Renaissance-inspired façade, with its triple archway and decorative motifs of swans, griffins, and fantastical creatures, set a new standard for elegance in the burgeoning Salamanca district. Inside, the Palacio del Marqu\u00e9s de Salamanca continues the Renaissance theme, centered around a traditional columned courtyard. The palace was originally surrounded by gardens, boasting two main floors and a semi-basement. It was commissioned by the illustrious Marquis of Salamanca himself, Jos\u00e9 de Salamanca y Mayol. A prominent figure during Isabel II’s reign, he was a statesman, politician, banker, and entrepreneur. Choosing the queen’s favorite architect was a strategic move, solidifying his status and wealth. The grand inaugural party on December 16, 1858, was a testament to his influence, chronicled in newspapers across the country. The Marquis of Salamanca, a passionate art collector, unfortunately had to sell his collection to settle debts. He even lost the Palacio del Marqu\u00e9s de Salamanca itself, ceding it to the Banco Hipotecario de Espa\u00f1a in 1876. Today, the Fundaci\u00f3n BBVA has transformed the Palacio del Marqu\u00e9s de Salamanca into a hub of cultural and scientific activity. Concerts and conferences now fill the spaces where high society once gathered. As part of the “Bienvenidos a Palacio” program, the Palacio del Marqu\u00e9s de Salamanca opens its doors to the public, offering a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience its grandeur. You can almost hear the echoes of the past mingling with the vibrant energy of the present within the Palacio del Marqu\u00e9s de Salamanca.