Anna Klein
Member
Overview
Edificio Capitol, also known as Edificio Carrión, is one of Madrid’s most recognizable buildings and a quintessential example of Spanish Art Deco architecture. Located at the intersection of Gran Vía and Calle Jacometrezo, this iconic structure was completed in 1933 and quickly became a symbol of Madrid’s modernization during the early 20th century.
With its streamlined form, bold signage, and striking verticality, Edificio Capitol stands out as an urban landmark. Its famous Schweppes neon sign has become a cultural icon, immortalized in Spanish cinema and urban imagery.
History
- Construction Period: 1931–1933
- Architects: Luis Martínez-Feduchi and Vicente Eced y Eced
- Style: Art Deco / Rationalism
- Purpose: Mixed-use — originally designed to host a cinema (Cine Capitol), hotel rooms, offices, and retail spaces.
Key Architectural Features
- Height: 54 meters (14 floors)
- Style: Art Deco with Rationalist influences
- Materials:
- Limestone facade with geometric ornamentation
- Curved glass corner windows for panoramic views
- Iconic Elements:
- Schweppes neon sign (added in the 1970s)
- Ground floor Cine Capitol, still in operation today
- Interior:
- Originally featured luxurious finishes: marble, brass details, and modernist furniture
Cultural Significance
- Cinema: Cine Capitol remains an important venue for movie premieres and cultural events.
- Cinema and Media Symbolism: Featured in movies like The Day of the Beast (El Día de la Bestia).
- Urban Icon: One of the most photographed sites on Gran Vía.
- Preservation Status: Declared a Bien de Interés Cultural (Asset of Cultural Interest) in 2018, protecting its architectural integrity.
Timeline
- 1931: Construction begins
- 1933: Official inauguration
- 1970s: Addition of Schweppes neon sign
- 2018: Declaration as Bien de Interés Cultural
Urban Impact
- Skyline Presence: Dominates the eastern end of Gran Vía and defines Madrid’s mid-20th-century architectural profile.
- Cultural Hub: A point of convergence for cinema, culture, and urban life.
- Architectural Inspiration: Continues to inspire contemporary architects and designers interested in Art Deco and early modernism.
Official and Informational Links
- Madrid Tourism — Edificio Capitol:
Carrión Building (Capitol)
One of the architectural icons on the Gran Vía in Madrid, known for its huge Schweppes sign.www.esmadrid.com
- Architectural Profile (ES):
Photo by Giuseppe Buccola on Unsplash