Palacio del Marqués de Salamanca, Madrid, 19th-century palace in Recoletos, Spain
The Palacio del Marqués de Salamanca is a 19th-century palace with a rectangular footprint organized around a central courtyard. Its structure features Renaissance-inspired arches, pillars, and Carrara marble fireplaces distributed throughout its rooms.
Construction began in 1845 under José de Salamanca y Mayol but paused in 1848 when the owner went into exile. The palace was finally completed in 1858 after this period of interruption.
The interior displays wall paintings in the Pompeian style and noble wood floors that reflect the tastes of Madrid's 19th-century aristocratic families. These details reveal how the owners used decoration to demonstrate their wealth and status.
The building now serves as the headquarters of the BBVA Foundation, hosting research activities, concerts, and video art exhibitions. Its main entrance is located at 10 Paseo de Recoletos.
A glass roof covers the central courtyard and floods the vestibule with natural light. The original greenhouse that once belonged to the palace was moved and now stands in Retiro Park.
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