AZCA, the bustling financial and business district of Madrid, Spain, is a vibrant hub that merges modernity with a rich history. Nestled within the Tetuán district, this rectangular superblock spans 19 hectares and is bordered by the streets of Raimundo Fernández Villaverde, Orense, the General Perón Avenue, and the Paseo de la Castellana. With its towering skyscrapers and dynamic atmosphere, AZCA is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the pulse of Madrid's economic prowess.
The conception of AZCA dates back to the Plan General de Ordenación Urbana de Madrid, also known as the Plan Bidagor, approved in 1946. The original vision was to create a massive office block that would segregate pedestrian and vehicular traffic across multiple levels. This ambitious plan included underground rings for vehicular circulation and parking, while the surface levels were dedicated to pedestrian pathways. The plan also envisioned cultural facilities such as a theater, a library, and a botanical garden, although these were never realized.
In 1954, an international competition was held to design the AZCA block, and the winning project was submitted by architect Antonio Perpiñá. Inspired by New York's Rockefeller Center, Perpiñá's design laid the foundation for what would become one of Madrid's most iconic districts. The partial plan for the area was approved in 1957, but it wasn't until 1964 that the project received full approval from the Comisión de Planeamiento y Coordinación del Área Metropolitana de Madrid.
Construction of AZCA began in earnest in 1968, with the first plot being developed by El Corte Inglés. Over the next few decades, the area saw the rise of numerous high-rise buildings, primarily for commercial and office use. The central space, initially intended for the Teatro de la Ópera, was transformed into a large, albeit lifeless, plaza. The project saw contributions from various architects, resulting in a somewhat eclectic and heterogeneous architectural landscape.
By the 1990s and 2000s, AZCA had become a bustling center of activity, home to around 1,800 residents and accommodating approximately 27,000 workers. However, the area also experienced a period of decline, with increasing urban decay and safety concerns. The labyrinthine network of passages and galleries, known as the bajos de AZCA, became notorious for their hostility and insecurity.
In response to the growing issues, several revitalization projects were proposed in the late 2000s. Although the economic crisis delayed many of these initiatives, significant efforts were made to breathe new life into AZCA. Between 2014 and 2016, the Ayuntamiento de Madrid launched the Plan Director de AZCA, which aimed to enhance the area's appeal with giant screens, fewer bars, and more pedestrian spaces. The pavements were replaced with colorful concrete slabs, and the plazas underwent extensive renovations.
Security was also a major concern, leading to the installation of 55 security cameras managed by the Policía Municipal in 2016. Despite these measures, incidents of violence continued to occur, underscoring the need for ongoing vigilance and improvement.
Today, AZCA stands as a testament to Madrid's resilience and adaptability. The district is home to some of the city's tallest buildings, including the Torre Picasso, the BBVA Tower, and the Torre Europa. These skyscrapers not only define Madrid's skyline but also serve as headquarters for major financial institutions and multinational corporations.
In recent years, AZCA has seen a surge in office space renovations, adding over 100,000 square meters of high-grade office space. This transformation has made the area one of the most sought-after business districts in Madrid, with rental prices reflecting its premium status. The opening of Zara's largest store in Spain in 2017 further cemented AZCA's position as a commercial powerhouse.
Beyond its business credentials, AZCA is also a vibrant cultural and social hub. The district hosts the popular Madreat street food festival, attracting food enthusiasts from all over the city. The gardens and plazas provide a much-needed green respite amidst the urban jungle, offering spaces for relaxation and social gatherings.
Looking ahead, there are ambitious plans to further enhance AZCA's appeal. Projects like the creation of a large pedestrian green space known as the Salón Norte de Tetuán and improved connectivity with nearby landmarks such as the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and the Palacio de Congresos are on the horizon. These initiatives promise to make AZCA not just a financial center but a vibrant, multifaceted district that embodies the spirit of modern Madrid.
In conclusion, AZCA is more than just a business district; it is a dynamic area that reflects the evolution of Madrid over the past several decades. From its ambitious beginnings to its current status as a bustling financial hub, AZCA continues to captivate and inspire, making it an essential stop on any tour of Madrid.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.
Buy Gift Vouchers
