Spain, known for its rich history and diverse cultural heritage, is also a treasure trove of Art Deco architecture. This elegant and modernist style, which flourished between the two World Wars, is characterized by its geometric shapes, bold colors, and lavish ornamentation. From Madrid’s iconic buildings to hidden gems in smaller cities, Spain offers a unique journey through Art Deco that blends European influences with local flair. In Madrid, the Edificio Telefónica, one of the tallest buildings in Europe when it was completed in 1929, stands as a testament to the city’s embrace of modernity. Its Americaninspired design, with a mix of neoclassical and Art Deco elements, reflects the optimism of the era. Nearby, the Gran Vía is lined with theaters and cinemas from the 1930s, each showcasing the glamour and sophistication of the Art Deco movement. Another highlight in Madrid is the Casa de las Flores, a residential building designed by Secundino Zuazo in 1931. Its clean lines, spacious balconies, and decorative flourishes make it a masterpiece of Spanish Art Deco. The building’s name, which means House of Flowers, comes from the flower boxes that adorn its façade, adding a touch of natural beauty to the urban landscape. Moving to Barcelona, the citys Art Deco heritage is often overshadowed by its more famous Modernista architecture, but it’s well worth exploring. The Casa Ramos, built in 1930, is a striking example of the style, with its curved balconies and intricate ironwork. Another gem is the Teatre Coliseum, a former cinema that now hosts live performances. Its façade features geometric patterns and sculptures that capture the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. In Valencia, the Mercado de Colón, completed in 1916, is a stunning blend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco. Its colorful ceramic tiles, wrought iron details, and soaring arches make it one of the city’s most beautiful landmarks. Originally a market, it has been transformed into a vibrant space filled with cafes, shops, and restaurants, offering visitors a taste of Valencia’s culinary delights in a historic setting. In the Basque Country, Bilbao’s Art Deco architecture is a testament to the city’s industrial past. The Edificio Sota, built in 1922, is one of the finest examples. Its façade combines classical proportions with modern geometric patterns, creating a striking visual effect. The interior is equally impressive, with luxurious materials and intricate details that reflect the wealth and ambition of its original owners.
Beyond the welltrodden paths of Madrid and Barcelona, Art Deco treasures await in the lesserexplored corners of Spain. In the coastal city of Málaga, the Edificio Félix Sáenz, completed in 1922, stands as a striking example of the style. Originally a department store, this building features bold geometric designs, a grand central dome, and intricate details that showcase the opulence of the era. A stroll through the streets of Málaga offers glimpses of other Art Deco gems, each contributing to the city’s architectural tapestry. In the northern city of Oviedo, the Edificio La Jirafa, built in 1933, is an iconic landmark. Its name, meaning The Giraffe Building, reflects its slender, vertical form that towers above the surrounding streets. The building’s façade is adorned with decorative elements typical of the Art Deco style, including geometric motifs and stylized sculptures. Nearby, the Edificio Santa Teresa, completed in 1930, captures the essence of the movement with its elegant curves and lavish ornamentation. Oviedo’s Art Deco architecture is a testament to the city’s embrace of modernity in the early 20th century. Heading to the southern region of Andalusia, Seville boasts several Art Deco masterpieces. The Edificio Filella, built in 1931, is a standout example, with its streamlined form and decorative reliefs. The building’s design reflects the influence of both European and American trends, blending them seamlessly into the Andalusian landscape. Another highlight is the Edificio La Adriática, constructed in 1927, which features a striking façade adorned with geometric patterns and stylized figures. These buildings are part of Seville’s rich architectural heritage, offering a glimpse into the city’s evolution over the decades. In the vibrant city of Valencia, the Edificio Garcerán, completed in 1931, stands as a testament to the city’s embrace of the Art Deco movement. The building’s eyecatching façade features bold lines and intricate details, creating a visual feast for architecture enthusiasts. Valencia’s Art Deco legacy also includes the Edificio Gil y Gil, built in 1935, a stunning example of the style with its curved balconies and decorative ironwork. These structures reflect the city’s dynamic character, blending traditional elements with the modern spirit of the early 20th century. Finally, in the island paradise of Tenerife, the capital city of Santa Cruz offers a surprising array of Art Deco buildings. The Edificio del Cabildo Insular, completed in 1940, is a prime example, with its imposing façade and decorative reliefs. The city’s Art Deco heritage is further exemplified by the Teatro Leal, built in 1929, which features a grand entrance adorned with geometric patterns and stylized sculptures. Exploring Santa Cruz’s Art Deco gems provides a unique insight into the island’s cultural evolution and its connection to global architectural trends.
