Architecture sights in Madrid
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A
Palacio de Cristal
Legend has it that an enormous fortune buried by Felipe IV in the mid-18th century rests beneath the Fuente Egipcia (Egyptian Fountain) on the western side of the lake. Other highlights include the 1887 Palacio de Cristal, a charming metal-and-glass structure south of the lake, which hosts temporary exhibitions.
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B
Congreso de Los Diputados
Spain’s lower house of parliament was originally a Renaissance building, but it was completely revamped in 1850 and given a façade with a neo-Classical portal. The imposing lions watching over the entrance were smelted from cannons used in Spain’s African wars during the mid-19th century. Before becoming the official seat of Spain’s parliament, the building was home to a church, the Iglesia de Espíritu Santo. The modern extension tacked onto it seems a rather odd afterthought. It was here, on 11 February 1981, that renegade members of Spain’s Guardia Civil launched a failed coup attempt. Be sure to bring your passport if you want to visit.
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C
Casón del Buen Retiro
One of the few vestiges of the 17th-century Palacio del Buen Retiro, this somewhat austere building overlooking the Parque del Buen Retiro is administered by the Museo del Prado for its students and is, sadly, otherwise closed to the public other than for occasional temporary exhibitions. If you’re lucky enough to see inside, make straight for the Hall of the Ambassadors where the expansive 1697 ceiling fresco The Apotheosis of the Spanish Monarchy by Luca Gordano is astonishing. The rest of the building has been renovated in a modern style.
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D
Palacio de Linares
Built in 1873, the Palacio de Linares is a worthy member of the line-up of grand façades on the plaza, while its interior is notable for the copious use of Carrara marble. Tours take an hour and can be reserved on 902 400 222. In the palace’s grounds is the Casa de América, a modern exhibition centre which, also hosts all sorts of events and concerts.
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E
Palacio de Santa Cruz
Just off the southeast corner of Plaza Mayor and dominating Plaza de Santa Cruz is this baroque edifice, which houses the Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) and hence can only be admired from the outside. A landmark with its grey slate spires, it was built in 1643 and initially served as the court prison.
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