Telefónica Building, Early 20th century skyscraper on Gran Via, Madrid, Spain
The Telefónica Building rises 89 meters with 14 floors, featuring Art Deco architecture combined with traditional Madrid Baroque ornamental elements on its exterior facade.
Upon completion in 1929, this structure held the title of tallest building in Europe until 1940, when the Terrazza Martini Tower in Genoa exceeded its height.
During the Spanish Civil War, international journalists including Ernest Hemingway and Antoine de Saint-Exupéry transmitted their news reports from within this building.
The building houses the Telefónica Foundation, which maintains a telecommunications museum and an auditorium for public exhibitions and educational programs.
The structure's rooftop clock changed its illumination from red to blue in 2013, marking a shift in corporate identity while maintaining its role as a nocturnal reference point.
Location: Madrid
Location: Universidad
Inception: March 1929
Architects: Ignacio de Cárdenas Pastor
Floors above the ground: 14
GPS coordinates: 40.42039,-3.70190
Latest update: May 27, 2025 10:03
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