Palacio de Fernán Núñez, 19th century mansion in Centro district, Madrid, Spain
The Palacio de Fernán Núñez is a 19th century mansion in central Madrid featuring romantic and Isabelline architecture with grand staircases, barrel-vaulted galleries, and ornate interior woodwork. The building spans multiple floors with rooms decorated in period styles that reflect the tastes of its original owners.
The mansion was built in the 19th century as a private residence before being repurposed during the Spanish Civil War in 1937 as a youth center and detention facility. Following the conflict, it was transferred to the Spanish Railways Foundation, which has maintained and operated it since the 1980s.
The palace hosts rotating art exhibitions, musical performances, and cultural events that bring visitors into contact with both classical and contemporary works. These gatherings fill the rooms with new life while respecting their historical character.
Access to the interior is only by guided tour organized by the Spanish Railways Foundation, which provides detailed walks through the historical rooms. Plan your visit in advance since tour times are limited and the palace closes on certain days.
The palace became headquarters for the Spanish Railways Foundation and now houses railway heritage collections that few visitors know about. This unexpected connection between the mansion's grand rooms and working railway history creates a surprising blend of interests within its walls.
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