Caixaforum

CaixaForum Madrid is a major cultural centre located along the Paseo del Prado, opposite the Royal Botanical Garden and next to the Prado Museum. Housed in a former power station, it occupies a strategic position within Madrid’s main cultural axis and forms part of the city’s museum-rich landscape. More than a single exhibition venue, CaixaForum functions as a contemporary landmark that complements the historic institutions of the area.

What makes CaixaForum distinctive is its architectural transformation. The building was redesigned by the Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron, who preserved the original brick structure while elevating it above ground level, creating a striking open plaza beneath. One of its most recognizable features is the vertical garden, a living wall that introduces greenery into the dense urban environment. Inside, the centre hosts temporary exhibitions, cultural events and educational programmes, reinforcing the Prado area’s role as a space for both heritage and contemporary culture.

CaixaForum also acts as a connector within the Paseo del Prado ensemble. It sits between the Prado Museum and Atocha Station, linking the museum zone with the Literary Quarter (Barrio de las Letras) and nearby green spaces. Its presence highlights the coexistence of historic and modern architecture along the boulevard and strengthens the cultural continuity of the UNESCO-listed Landscape of Light.