Edificio Metropoli

The Edificio Metrópolis, at the intersection of Calle de Alcalá and Gran Vía in Madrid, is one of the city's historic landmarks. Originally conceived as the headquarters of the insurance company La Unión y el Fénix, the building was designed by the brothers Jules and Raymond Février following an international architectural competition. Construction began in 1907 and ended with the grand opening in January 1911. The building impresses with its finely articulated Beaux-Arts facade and a striking domed tower. While a phoenix originally sat atop the dome, this symbol was replaced in 1972 by a gilded winged Victoria designed by Federico Coullaut Valera, after the Metropolis company had taken over the building.