Edificio Espana / Hotel Riu (Spain Building), Madrid

While it may not claim the title of the city's tallest building, Edificio España's visual impact is truly striking. Soaring to a height of 117 meters with 25 floors, the structure stands in four distinctive tiers, showcasing a captivating Neo-Baroque facade. Designed by visionary architects in the 1940s, it managed to evade the prevailing Cubist Era style that emerged shortly thereafter, acting as a "symbol of prosperity" during the decades of Francisco Franco's Spain.

Originally serving as a hotel on its first 19 floors, the upper levels housed offices and private apartments, while a rooftop swimming pool provided a luxurious amenity. In 2004, the building was sold for an exorbitant sum. Following several shifts in ownership and a prolonged period of vacancy, it underwent a comprehensive renovation to be exclusively dedicated to hospitality: the Hotel Riu Plaza España, which opened its doors in August 2019. The lower three floors house retail spaces, while the remaining floors offer an impressive array of amenities, including 585 rooms, 5,000 square meters of event space, two restaurants, and a rooftop pool and skybar spread across the upper levels.

Since April 2022, the edifice has become home to the Zara flagship store in Spain, joined by the Stradivarius store, encompassing a vast surface area of 9,000 square meters. This Zara establishment is presumed to be the largest store of the brand worldwide.

Tip:
The main draw here is the rooftop bar and viewing area. There may be occasional queues for entry, but advance ticket purchases are available to streamline the process. The spacious layout ensures ample room for visitors to enjoy the stunning view.