[MADRID] Edificio España | 117 m | A Symbol of Madrid’s Vertical Expansion

[Anna Klein]

Overview​

Edificio España is a historic skyscraper located at the heart of Madrid’s Plaza de España. Completed in 1953, it stood as a symbol of Spain's post-war reconstruction and the ambition to modernize Madrid’s skyline. With its grand stature and neo-baroque styling, Edificio España was the tallest building in Spain and one of the tallest in Europe upon its completion.

Today, after extensive restoration, Edificio España has been reborn as the Riu Plaza España Hotel, blending historic grandeur with contemporary luxury. It continues to play a pivotal role in Madrid’s urban identity.

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History​

Conception and Construction​

Commissioned by the Metrovacesa company, Edificio España was envisioned as a multipurpose skyscraper that would accommodate a hotel, offices, apartments, and commercial spaces.

• Architects: Julián and José María Otamendi Machimbarrena (same as Torre de Madrid)
• Construction Period: 1948–1953

It was designed during the Franco regime’s effort to showcase Spain’s modernization and progress. The building embodied both American skyscraper innovation and traditional Spanish architectural elements.

Golden Years​

Upon its completion, Edificio España became a beacon of modern Madrid:

• Tallest building in Spain until 1957
• Featured luxury apartments, a shopping arcade, and the prestigious Hotel Plaza

The building’s eclectic neo-baroque facade gave it a distinctive presence amid Madrid’s evolving cityscape.

Decline and Revival​

After decades of success, Edificio España fell into decline in the late 20th century, eventually closing for many years. In the 2010s, major investments were made to restore and revitalize the building.

Today, it houses the 4-star Riu Plaza España Hotel, residential units, and commercial spaces, including one of Madrid’s most popular rooftop terraces.

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Architectural Features​

• Height: 117 meters (384 feet)
• Floors: 26
• Architectural Style: Neo-baroque with modernist influences
• Facade:
  • Clad in red brick with white stone detailing
  • Strong vertical lines with a stepped, wedding-cake design
• Structure:
  • Reinforced concrete frame
  • Symmetrical massing and formal composition

The building’s design reflects a blend of classic Spanish elements and modern skyscraper aesthetics, making it a rare hybrid in European architecture.

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Cultural and Urban Impact​

• Symbol of Recovery: Marked Spain’s post-war resurgence and urban growth.
• Cinematic Landmark: Featured in various Spanish films and television series.
• Revitalization: Its restoration has played a major role in the regeneration of Plaza de España.
• Public Access: The rooftop terrace offers panoramic views over Madrid and has become a popular tourist destination.

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Timeline​

• 1948: Groundbreaking
• 1953: Completion and inauguration
• 1980s-2000s: Gradual decline
• 2017: Restoration begins
• 2019: Reopens as Riu Plaza España Hotel

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Location and Accessibility​

• Address: Plaza de España, Madrid, Spain
• Transport:
  • Metro: Plaza de España Station (Lines 3 and 10)
  • Bus and pedestrian-friendly access
• Nearby Attractions:
  • Royal Palace of Madrid
  • Gran Vía
  • Temple of Debod

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Notable Comparisons​

• Torre de Madrid: Edificio España’s neighboring skyscraper and contemporary in design.
• Metropolis Building: Shares similar ornamental details in a different, earlier style.