Juan Manuel Moreno
Hidden palaces
Continuing along the Paseo de Recoletos towards Atocha, you´ll arrive at Plaza de Cibeles, an important artistic point in the Spanish capital. It´s a breathtaking panoramic view. At the intersection of Paseo de Prado and Paseo de Recoletes, the Palacio de Comunicaciones is on one side, which is currently the headquarters of the town hall of Madrid. On the other side of the street you´ll see the Banco de España. Across Alcalá street is the Palacio de Buenavista, the general army barracks. The Palacio de Linares or the Palacio de Murga, as it was better known during its early years, is on the fourth corner of the giant intersection.
It was the residence of the Marques of Linares, D. José de Murga and Reolid and his wife, Dª Raimundo de Osoio and Ortega, who ordered for its construction in 1877 under the direction of the architect Carlos Colubí and the French Adolf Ombretch. The stable, the doll house, (precious), and the staircase (very pretty/beautiful) that lead you to the garden are the works of Manuel Aníbal Álvarez.
This garden is wonderful and takes us back to another time when peace and tranquility prevailed on both sides of the rot wrought iron gate, separating the street from the gardens. Next door, a cafe provides me with a little peace and comfort while I enjoy a beer and the views behind the palace.
Currently, it´s the headquarters of the Casa de América and can only be visited on Saturdays and Sundays following the orders of operation. If you´re there around lunch time, cross to the Palacio de Comunicaciones side of Acalá street and head towards the Puerta de Alcalá. At the doorway number 58, you´ll find Club 31. The food is exceptional, both in quality and in price. If you´re looking for a cheaper place, cross the street and there are bars and cafes waiting to fill you appetite.
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