University City of Madrid, University campus in northwestern Madrid, Spain
University City of Madrid is a campus in northwestern Madrid that spreads across a large area, combining academic buildings, research centers, green spaces, and pedestrian routes. The complex connects functional architecture with park-like zones where plane trees and lawns grow between institutes.
The campus began in 1928 following plans by architect Modesto López Otero, who drew inspiration from North American university models. The Spanish Civil War interrupted construction as the site became a frontline, and many buildings sustained damage during the conflict.
The name reflects Spain's tradition of creating dedicated academic districts separate from historic city centers. Students from across the country gather here during term time, filling outdoor benches between classes and using the lawns for informal study groups.
The campus is best explored on foot or by bicycle, as buildings connect through paved paths and wide avenues. Visitor groups should prepare for longer walking distances, since individual zones lie far apart from each other.
The complex contains an underground tunnel system stretching roughly 9,500 meters (about 31,000 feet), originally laid out for heating pipes. These tunnels link twelve substations and now also allow passage for maintenance crews and technical conduits.
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