Edificio Telefonica (Telefonica Building), Madrid

Designed by Spanish architect Ignacio de Cárdenas, who took inspiration from American architect Lewis Weeks, this 90-meter high, 14-story American-style skyscraper has nevertheless a Spanish Baroque facade adorned with intricately sculptured ornaments. Europe's tallest structure at the time of its inauguration in 1929, it has been a symbol of Madrid and its clock a famous landmark of what has become colloquially termed as the "Madrilenian Broadway".

An interesting aspect of the building's history is that, during the Spanish Civil War, it housed the offices of the foreign press. One of the foreign journalists at the time (late 1930s), Ernest Hemingway found inspiration for his famous novel "For Whom the Bell Tolls" right here, while observing the conflict between the Nationalists and Republicans. As it happens, the building's height made it an ideal target for bombing raids by Franco's troops.

Today, Telefónica plays a more peaceful role in Spanish life. The first floor houses a serene café and a shop offering a wide range of communication equipment. Other floors are dedicated to the Museum of Telecommunication, the Technology Museum, and wonderful art exhibitions, providing visitors with a constant array of interesting things to see. Best of all, admission is free!