Calle Gran Via Madrid: A Brief History
If you’re planning a trip to Madrid, you’ll undoubtedly find yourself walking down the famous Calle Gran Via. This iconic street is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city, known for its stunning architecture, bustling shops, and lively atmosphere.
But when was Calle Gran Via Madrid built? Let’s take a closer look.
The Beginning
Construction on Calle Gran Via began in 1910, during the reign of King Alfonso XIII. At the time, Madrid was a rapidly growing city with a population that had nearly tripled in size over the previous 50 years. The king saw an opportunity to modernize the city and create a grand boulevard that would rival those of other European capitals like Paris and Berlin.
The Design
The design for Calle Gran Via was created by architects José López Sallabery and Francisco Octavio Palacios. Their plan called for a wide avenue that would span from east to west across central Madrid, connecting two major plazas: Plaza de España and Plaza de Cibeles. The street would feature six lanes of traffic (three in each direction), as well as sidewalks lined with trees and ornate street lamps.
Construction Challenges
Building Calle Gran Via was no easy feat. The street had to be carved through dense urban neighborhoods that were already crowded with buildings.
This meant that many existing structures had to be demolished to make way for the new road. In addition, workers encountered a number of underground obstacles such as sewers and water mains that had to be rerouted.
Completion and Reception
Despite these challenges, construction on Calle Gran Via proceeded quickly. The first section of road opened in 1911, with additional sections opening over the following years.
By 1929, the street was complete and had become one of the most important thoroughfares in Madrid. The public’s response to Calle Gran Via was overwhelmingly positive, with many hailing it as a symbol of modernity and progress.
Today
Today, Calle Gran Via remains one of Madrid’s most popular attractions. Visitors can stroll down the wide sidewalks, taking in the sights and sounds of this bustling avenue.
Along the way, they’ll encounter some of Madrid’s most iconic landmarks, including the Edificio Telefónica and the Metropolis Building. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Madrid or a seasoned traveler, Calle Gran Via is not to be missed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Calle Gran Via Madrid was built between 1910 and 1929 as part of an effort to modernize the city and create a grand boulevard that would rival those of other European capitals. Despite construction challenges, the street was completed on time and has become one of Madrid’s most beloved landmarks. So next time you find yourself in Spain’s capital city, take a walk down Calle Gran Via and experience its rich history for yourself!