Andy Rodker's photos with the keyword: Paseo de la Castellana

'Why so, Andy?' 'Well, my friends, it is here I first met my girlfriend. Let me explain ...' This is Banco Santander's Madrid base for official functions, banquets, award ceremonies and so on. Their actual head office is some way out of Madrid and covers rather more ground than this palacete (or 'little palace') on the Paseo de la Castellana, but they needed somewhere prestigious and central for functions. Training is also held here so I found myself teaching Business English here in 2012. Half way through the term, a sensational - looking lady burst into my class (all 6 foot 3 of her, legs up to her armpits, flaming shock of red curly hair and a genuine kaftan! I hadn't seen one since the 70s!) Anyway, she said in very cut-glass tones (Spanish cut-glass obviously); "Good afternoon! Sorry to jump straight in like this. You don't know me and I'm not on your student list. But I've just got head office to agree I can join your class. OK?" ... as she proceeded to plonk herself down on the only available seat. Her cheek was in the fact that she never worked for Banco Santander but for the Fundación Santander, a totaly different body and not one that should have enjoyed the same staff perks; but as their own were inferior, she decided to get round the system. She is good at getting what she thinks is her due! She was never added to my list of 'official' students and so to this day I think she pulled a fast one, but bully for her!!! The rest is history!

The top tier has already gone and strange towers are going up which will, I suppose, support the ugly new roof thing. I have a few more I will post every few days or so.

It doesn't seem to be a Covid thing. On some Sundays sections of this north-south main Madrid axis are closed. I presume for demonstrations or just for the public to enjoy on foot, on bikes, on scooters, roller skates, etc. But honestly I don't know why! However,today it was blocked off along very long sections and there was absolutely no-one around. It's like seeing Oxford Street or the Champs Elysées on a Sunday afternoon without a soul. Unthinkable! And I'm still puzzled! If Prez T was paying a visit to Madrid I could understand it; no crowds would show so no security would be required!

From Torre Europa, looking north to Torres Kio and the Four Towers along this main Madrid thoroughfare. Behind the furthest towers can just be glimpsed La Sierra de La Cabrera. Best on black and full screen.