Gaviria Palace (Madrid)
Picture: Wikimedia Commons
Gaviria Palace is a splendid 19th-century building located on Arenal Street. It served as the personal residence of the Marquis Manuel Gaviria de Souza. It was considered one of the most luxurious and distinguished palaces of its time.
Built between 1846 and 1847 by the famous architect Aníbal Álvarez Bouquel, the palace has a style clearly inspired by the classic Roman model with Neoclassical influences—consistent with the style of the Renaissance palaces in Italy.
Gaviria agreed upon its location because Arenal Street had become an authentic epicentre of the flourishing Madrid bourgeoisie between the Royal Theatre and Puerta del Sol.
The palace was so impressive that Queen Elizabeth II attended its inauguration in 1851, holding her honour ball then. From then on, it became a frequent location for the city's high-class parties thanks to the spacious ballrooms included in its original design. The splendid frescoes adorning its walls and ceiling were the work of the artist Joaquín Espalter y Rull.
Over time, the mansion was sold and used in various ways, including as a nightclub that operated from 1991 to 2011. From then on, it was used as a venue for events and travelling exhibitions.
Due to its beauty and heritage value, Gaviria Palace was declared an Asset of Cultural Interest.
Built between 1846 and 1847 by the famous architect Aníbal Álvarez Bouquel, the palace has a style clearly inspired by the classic Roman model with Neoclassical influences—consistent with the style of the Renaissance palaces in Italy.
Gaviria agreed upon its location because Arenal Street had become an authentic epicentre of the flourishing Madrid bourgeoisie between the Royal Theatre and Puerta del Sol.
The palace was so impressive that Queen Elizabeth II attended its inauguration in 1851, holding her honour ball then. From then on, it became a frequent location for the city's high-class parties thanks to the spacious ballrooms included in its original design. The splendid frescoes adorning its walls and ceiling were the work of the artist Joaquín Espalter y Rull.
Over time, the mansion was sold and used in various ways, including as a nightclub that operated from 1991 to 2011. From then on, it was used as a venue for events and travelling exhibitions.
Due to its beauty and heritage value, Gaviria Palace was declared an Asset of Cultural Interest.
Location
Civil Buildings in Madrid
Religious Buildings in Madrid
Museums in Madrid
