CentroCentro is a public cultural centre inside the Palacio de Cibeles, Madrid’s former main post office and now the city hall, at Plaza de Cibeles. The ornate early 20th-century building is worth exploring for its preserved staircases and grand interiors as well as its changing exhibitions on contemporary art and social themes. Many exhibitions are free, though temporary shows can sometimes charge admission. Head to the upper-floor viewing area for panoramic city views, then browse the gift shop or pause at the ground-floor café.
A cultural centre in the former post office
CentroCentro occupies the Palacio de Cibeles, the ornate building that once housed Madrid’s main post office and telephone and telegraph headquarters. The building is now home to Madrid City Council as well as the cultural centre. Its grand architecture is part of the visit: the staircases are well preserved, and the interiors provide a spacious setting for exhibitions and places to pause.
The palace was designed by Antonio Palacios with Joaquín Otamendi at the beginning of the 20th century. Its former civic role and current use sit side by side: visitors can explore cultural spaces within a building that also houses the city hall.
Exhibitions and public spaces
The exhibition programme changes and can cover contemporary art, social themes, design, illustration, architecture, urban planning, literature and other disciplines. Several exhibitions may be on at once, so the galleries can offer different subjects during a single visit. Exhibition texts are available in Spanish and English.
Admission to the building and many exhibitions is free. Some temporary exhibitions may charge a fee, so check the details of a particular show before visiting. CentroCentro also has spaces for reading and quiet contemplation, with seating and newspapers, as well as a café on the ground floor.
Views from above
The upper floors include a viewing area with panoramic views across central Madrid. Access to parts of the building can be restricted until a particular time, and areas may close during renovation, so check which spaces are open on the day. The building also has a restaurant and terrace area; the views are a reason to look into access arrangements before heading upstairs.
A gift shop sells Spanish cookbooks in English, jewellery by local designers and household items. CentroCentro is close to Retiro Park, making it straightforward to combine the galleries with a walk in the park.
FAQ
Is CentroCentro free to enter?
Entry to the building is free, and many exhibitions are free. Some temporary exhibitions may charge admission.
What can you see at CentroCentro?
The centre hosts changing exhibitions on subjects including contemporary art and social themes. You can also explore the palace interiors, including its preserved staircases.
Does CentroCentro have a viewing area?
Yes. An upper-floor viewing area has panoramic views of central Madrid. Access to some areas may be restricted at certain times.
Where is CentroCentro?
It is inside the Palacio de Cibeles at Plaza de Cibeles, 1, near Retiro Park.
