Exploring Madrid, Spain I 2025 I 4K I Part 1

Puerta de Alcalá is a famous neoclassical monument. It was commissioned by King Charles third and designed by architect Francesco Sabatini. Completed in 1778, the gate served as a grand entrance to the city of Madrid and stands near the northeastern edge of Retiro Park, at the beginning of Calle de Alcalá.

El Retiro Park is one of Madrid's most beloved green spaces and a historic jewel in the city. Originally created in the 17th century as a royal garden for King Philip fourth, it has since evolved into a public park open to all visitors. Covering about 125 hectares, the park features beautifully landscaped gardens, tree-lined paths, and open lawns, offering a peaceful retreat in the midst of the city.

The Great Pond of El Retiro is a prominent feature within Madrid's Retiro Park. It is an artificial lake located near the center of the park, designed to enhance the scenic beauty and provide recreational opportunities. The pond is a sizable, man-made body of water that adds a picturesque element to the park's landscape. It is surrounded by lush greenery, pathways, and benches, making it a popular spot for relaxation.

Cybele Palace is an iconic building. Originally constructed between 1907 and 1919, it was designed by architects Antonio Palacios and Joaquín Otamendi in a blended architectural style that includes elements of neo-Plateresque and modernism. The palace was initially built to house the headquarters of the Spanish postal and telecommunications service.

It is a neoclassical fountain and lies on the centre of the Plaza de Cibeles. The sculptural group in its centre represents Cybele, a Phrygian earth and fertility deity. In Greece, Cybele met with a mixed reception. She became partially assimilated to aspects of the Earth-goddess Gaia, of her possibly Minoan equivalent Rhea, and of the harvest–mother goddess Demeter. In Rome, Cybele became known as Magna Mater ("Great Mother").

Bank of Spain is the national central bank for Spain within the Eurosystem. It was the Spanish central bank from 1874 to 1998, issuing the peseta. Since 2014, it has also been Spain's national competent authority within European Banking Supervision. The building lies at the crossing of the Calle de Alcalá and the Paseo del Prado. It was inaugurated on March 1891.

Círculo de Bellas Artes is a prominent cultural center known for its rich artistic and cultural offerings. Founded in 1880, this institution plays a vital role in fostering the arts and promoting cultural engagement in Madrid.

Metropolis Building is one of the city's most iconic and architecturally striking landmarks. Located at the intersection of Gran Vía and Calle de Alcalá, it’s famous for its impressive ornate design and its majestically crowned dome.

Telefónica Foundation Space is a cultural and innovation center located in a historic building on Gran Vía. It is operated by Fundación Telefónica, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting art, technology, and culture.

Madrid-Paris Society Building, also known as the Gran Vía 32 building, is a historic landmark. It was constructed between 1922 and 1924 to house Madrid's first large department store. At the time, its design, inspired by the grand department stores of Paris, was considered one of the most modern constructions in the city.

Former Avenida Cinema is a landmark building on Gran Vía, known for its history as both a cultural hub and a commercial center. It was built between 1927 and 1928. For decades, the building was a key part of Gran Vía's reputation as a "cinematic" street. In its basement, it housed the famous Pasapoga nightclub, a legendary venue that attracted a mix of locals, celebrities, and even wartime spies. In October 2022, Uniqlo opened its flagship store in the location.

Gran Vía in Madrid is one of the city’s most famous and bustling streets, often referred to as the "Spanish Broadway" due to its lively atmosphere and entertainment options. It runs through central Madrid, connecting Plaza de España with the Calle de Alcalá.

The Schweppes sign is a historic and iconic advertising billboard located on the roof of the the Capitol building on Gran Vía. It is one of the most recognizable and enduring symbols of Madrid's vibrant cityscape.

Two massive arrow marks can be found on Gran Vía, hinting at a hidden ancient story. Atop Building 31 the Hotel Hyatt Centric, stands a magnificent statue of the Roman goddess Diana. She gracefully draws her bow. The goddess, protector of nature and the moon, stands amidst a pack of loyal hunting dogs, gazing at the distant rooftops.