An Art House With A View

Poised at the cross-junction of Madrid’s two major roads is the iconic building of Círculo de Bellas Artes (Circle of Fine Arts). A characteristic edifice symbolic of the city’s Renaissance architectural past, the building that houses the arts house is more than just an architectural marvel. Encompassing various aspects of arts and culture in Spain, the CBA is a one-stop centre for arts enthusiasts.

As the most active cultural center in Madrid, Círculo de Bellas Artes (map) has played a vital role in diffusing and creating cultural awareness in Madrid since its opening in 1880. These days, it is still a multidisciplinary centre, presenting interesting exhibitions, insightful conferences, educational films, lectures, workshops for potential artists and a library chocked full of collections.

Art and Photography Exhibitons

With four exhibition rooms to display works of art, events are held here on a regular basis to showcase both local and international talent. A recent exhibition to look out for is Madrid, Good Heavens! – a photography exhibition dedicated to Madrid’s dramatic skyline (20 May to 5 Sept). The works of Asturian painter & sculptor Bernardo Sanjurjo are also on display from 13 April to 23 May.

Concerts and Films

Music lovers can also catch concerts here that showcase alternative bands and singers. The latest concert will feature Troba Kung Fu, a Catalan band with smooth, street music to enthrall you. (28May 9pm, entrance 12euros) At CBA’s theatre, the African film festival is taking the stage this week (20 to 25 May). Several controversial African films will be screened here, including Afrique 50.

Workshops and Courses

CBA has earned quite a good reputation for its interactive workshops led by world-famous artists and intellects. Besides painting and drawing workshops, the CBA also conducts courses for chess, American billiard and contemporary art appreciation. You can also find juvenile theatre workshops for youths of age 13 to 16, as well as painting, chess and theatre workshops for infants aged 5 to 12 (different sessions for different age group). These workshops usually last 4 hours/week and cost around 150euros. Check the website’s workshop section for full details.

Rooftop Terrace

The 7th floor of the CBA building offers one of the most astounding views of Madrid. The emblematic statue of Goddess Minerva is larger than life here, while the city’s landmark Metropolis building looks even more impressive up close. As traffic continues to bustle below your feet, the panorama ahead allows you to slow down and catch a breathe. To get to the rooftop of the building, you need to purchase a 2euro ticket at its lobby.

Details of Círculo de Bellas Artes

Website: http://www.circulobellasartes.com/

Address: Calle Alcala 42, Madrid 28013 (map)

How to get there: It’s a 2-minute walk from Sevilla metro station.

Tel:+34 91 360 54 00

Email: info@circulobellasartes.com

Opening hours: 9am to 2pm and 3pm to 6pm (Monday to Friday)

Opening hours of roof terrace: 11am to 2pm and 4:30pm to 10pm (Saturday and Sunday)

Photo credit: Flickr creative commons by Felipe_Gabaldon.