Did Ava Gardner Live in Madrid?

By Michael Ferguson

Ava Gardner was a Hollywood movie star who captivated audiences with her beauty, talent, and charm. She was known for her sultry voice, fiery personality, and unforgettable performances in films like “The Killers,” “Mogambo,” and “The Night of the Iguana.” But did you know that she also had a connection to Madrid?

Gardner was born in 1922 in Grabtown, North Carolina. She grew up in poverty and dreamed of escaping to a glamorous life far away from home. After winning a beauty contest in 1941, she moved to Hollywood and began her career as an actress.

In the early 1950s, Gardner became involved with Spanish bullfighter Luis Miguel Dominguín. The two were inseparable for several years and even got married in 1951. They traveled the world together and were often seen at fashionable parties and events.

During this time, Gardner developed a love for Spain and its culture. She learned to speak Spanish fluently and became fascinated by the country’s art, music, and history. In 1955, she bought a house in La Moraleja, a wealthy suburb of Madrid.

Gardner’s house was located on Calle Marques de la Valdavia and was designed by Spanish architect Julio Cano Lasso. The house featured a swimming pool, tennis court, and large garden where Gardner would often entertain guests like Ernest Hemingway.

Despite her love for Spain, Gardner’s relationship with Dominguín eventually ended in divorce. She continued to live in Madrid on-and-off throughout the rest of her life but also spent time living in other places like London and Los Angeles.

Today, Gardner’s former home in Madrid is still standing but has undergone significant renovations over the years. It is now owned by Spanish businessman Fernando Fernandez-Tapias who reportedly paid over $16 million for it in 2005.

In conclusion, Ava Gardner did indeed live in Madrid for a time and even owned a house there. Her love for Spain and its culture is evident in her efforts to learn the language and immerse herself in the local community. While she may be best remembered for her Hollywood career, her connection to Madrid is a fascinating footnote in her life story.