Telefónica Building, Early 20th century skyscraper on Gran Via, Madrid, Spain
The Telefónica Building is a skyscraper standing around 89 meters tall with 14 stories, combining Art Deco design with traditional Baroque ornamental details. Its exterior facade displays a distinctive blend of modern construction and classical Madrid decorative elements throughout.
The structure was completed in 1929 and held the distinction of being Europe's tallest building until 1940, when the Terrazza Martini Tower in Genoa surpassed it. Its early prominence established it as a symbol of modernity during the interwar period.
The building served as a nerve center for international journalists during the Spanish Civil War, who reported from its offices to the world. Its location on Gran Vía made it a vital hub for those documenting the conflict.
The building houses the Telefónica Foundation, which operates a telecommunications museum and auditorium offering public exhibitions and events. Visitors should check opening hours in advance, as not all areas are continuously accessible.
The rooftop clock light was changed from red to blue in 2013 as part of a corporate identity shift, yet it continues serving as a nighttime landmark. This subtle color change is a detail many locals notice and recognize as a signal of the hour across the city.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
Gran Vía
151 m
Gran Vía 32 Building
128 m
Oratory of the Caballero de Gracia
135 m
Church of San Martín
246 m
Palacio de la Música
238 m
Casa Matesanz
93 m
Casino Militar, Madrid
194 m
Cine Avenida
267 m
Muñoz Seca Theater
253 m
Casa dos Portugueses
229 m
Convento de Don Juan de Alarcón, Madrid
164 m
Viviendas y oficinas para Rafael Sánchez
220 m
Hotel Atlántico
238 m
Estatua de Pepín Fernández, Madrid
209 m
Real Academia de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales building
179 m
Commemorative plaque to Rosalía de Castro
219 m
Círculo de la Unión Mercantil e Industrial building
92 m
Teatro Príncipe Gran Vía
116 m
Gran Vía 26, Madrid
52 m
Gran Vía 31, Madrid
164 m
Sede de la Oficina de Atención al Refugiado, Madrid
167 m
Cines Luna
270 m
Gran Vía 15, Madrid
165 m
Commemorative plaque to Ramón de Mesonero Romanos
130 m
About this town
196 m
Gran Vía 22 bis, Madrid
126 m
Gran Vía 30, Madrid
60 m
Commemorative plaque to Jacometrezo, Madrid
90 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes