Metropolis Building

The Metropolis Building in Madrid marks a striking intersection of the Gran Vía and the Calle de Alcalá. 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 official opening in January 1911. The building stands out for its finely articulated Beaux-Arts façade and a distinctive domed tower. Atop the dome sits a gilded Victory created by Federico Coullaut Valera, which replaced the original phoenix in 1972 after the building passed to the Metropolis insurance company.