CaixaForum Madrid

Overview

CaixaForum Madrid is a striking contemporary art centre built inside a converted 1899 power station, designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron. It appears to float above street level, with a famous vertical garden climbing its exterior wall.

Highlights

• Vertical Garden: Patrick Blanc's 24-metre-high living wall containing 15,000 plants of 250 species carpets the neighbouring building in lush greenery.
• Floating Architecture: The building appears to hover—the architects removed the base of the original power station and replaced it with a dramatic dark iron entrance foyer.
• Exhibitions: Major international touring exhibitions covering art, photography, science, and film, curated to the highest standard.

History

The original building was the Central Eléctrica del Mediodía, a power station built in 1899. La Caixa bank acquired it in 2001 and commissioned Herzog & de Meuron (designers of London's Tate Modern and Beijing's Bird's Nest stadium) for the conversion, which opened in 2008.

Visitor Tips

• Free Lectures: CaixaForum regularly offers free lectures, concerts, and family workshops as part of its social programme.
• Combine with Prado: Located directly across from the Prado's south entrance, making it a natural pairing.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.