Gran Via, one of the most crowded and extremely busy streets of Madrid which is not only a popular entertainment zone but also houses some of the best architectural edifices of the city.
Gran Via is one of the busiest and highly significant shopping streets of Madrid which houses a large number of 20th century architectural masterpieces. The Gran Via Street also has many local movie theatres and hotels situated on either sides of the road.
History of the Gran Via
The fascinating history of the Gran Via dates back to the mid 19th century era, when the planners of the city, decided that a new street will be constructed connecting the Plaza de España with Calle de Alcalá. This project involved the demolition of many architectural buildings which were initially located in the heart of the city. The construction work however did not start for many centuries and the project was severely criticized by the local media. The construction plan finally got approved in the year 1904 and work started. The last part of the street was however completed in the year 1929.
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Edifices on Gran Via
The Gran Via houses some of the best architectural edifices of Madrid, like the well-known, Metropolis Building. This was built in between 1907 to 1911 and has a statue of a winged Goddess Victoria in front of the building. Another popular building of the street is the Edificio Grassy, which was built in the year 1917. The Telefonica building is another remarkable edifice on this street which was constructed in between 1926 to 1929. It is one of the tallest skyscrapers in the city.
Further ahead of the Plaza de España on the Gran Via Street, lies the Plaza del Callao, which houses 6 movie theaters. This is one of the best places in Madrid where one can enjoy some good movies and shopping as well. The last part of the Gran Via Street leads towards the Plaza de España which has the two famous skyscrapers of madras located on it. From here onwards, the Gran Via Street attains the name of Calle de Princessa, which leads to the Arco de la Victoria.
The Gran Via Street in Madrid also has some excellent hostels, restaurants and cafes situated on it which makes it a popular spot for both tourists as well as the natives of Madrid.
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