Twelve incredible examples of avant-garde architecture
When imagining a typical monument of Spanish architecture, the image of a grand cathedral or an imposing castle may come to mind. However, avant-garde architecture also occupies an important place in Spain. In fact, certain modern buildings have completely revolutionised a city's image and become a true symbol of its identity. Photography enthusiasts will be delighted with the 12 architectural examples we present below. Shapes and materials that seem impossible, along with renowned architects like Santiago Calatrava, Oscar Niemeyer and Norman Foster, showcase Spain's most modern image.
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City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia
The work of architect Santiago Calatrava is a must-see in the city of Valencia. These striking buildings house, among other things, the largest aquarium in Europe, a science museum and a 3D digital cinema. A prime example of futuristic architecture from a creator who has other projects in Spain, such as the Tenerife Auditorium and the Oviedo Conference Centre.
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Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao
The 33,000 titanium panels of this building and its curvilinear forms seem to defy logic and surprise travellers approaching the banks of the Nervión estuary. Architect Frank Gehry has succeeded in making the Guggenheim the most recognisable icon of the city of Bilbao and one of the most beautiful museums in the world.
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Metropol Parasol, Seville
It is also known for its curious shape as the "Mushrooms of Seville". The traditional Plaza de la Encarnación is home to none other than the largest wooden structure in the world, designed by Jürgen Mayer. A large space where you can find an archaeological museum or a spectacular viewpoint almost 30 metres high. Good views guaranteed.
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Cuatro Torres Business Area in Madrid
The skyline of Spain's capital is now inconceivable without these four imposing towers: the Cepsa Tower, the PwC Tower, the Crystal Tower (the tallest building in Spain) and the Emperador Castellana Tower (formerly known as the Space Tower), all over 200 metres high. They will make you look up. Next to them also rises a fifth skyscraper, the 181-metre Caleido building, inaugurated in 2021.
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MUSAC of León
A mosaic of colours welcomes the traveller who ventures to visit the Museum of Contemporary Art of Castile and León, built with concrete walls and 3,351 panes of glass. It was designed this way by the Spanish architects Emilio Tuñón and Luis Moreno Mansilla. A kind of "contemporary cathedral" of León that is defined by a space open to thought.
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City of Culture of Galicia
The summit of Mount Gaiás, in Santiago de Compostela, was radically transformed by this project. Architect Peter Eisenman has brought to life a series of unique buildings inspired by the pilgrimage routes of the medieval city. Visitors can explore the grounds, join a guided tour, or attend one of the exhibitions or concerts held there.
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Glòries Tower in Barcelona
Formerly known as the Agbar Tower, this 144-metre-high glass cylinder was added to the city in 2005. Interestingly, its architect, Jean Nouvel, intended it to emulate the forms of the world-famous Sagrada Familia or the nearby mountain of Montserrat. Not to be missed with the special nighttime lighting.
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Centre Pompidou in Málaga
The cultural revolution that the city of Málaga has undergone is immediately apparent as you stroll through its streets and visit its new museums. Among them is the Centre Pompidou, whose famous Cube of Colours by Daniel Buren attracts everyone's attention. Inside, you'll find select artworks from the 20th and 21st centuries.
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Bridge Pavilion and Water Tower in Zaragoza
A bridge designed by Zaha Hadid in the shape of a gladiolus and an original 76-metre-high tower are two of the most spectacular examples left by the 2008 International Exposition in a city that was forever transformed. This area also houses the Zaragoza River Aquarium and the Luis Buñuel Water Park.
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The Niemeyer Centre in Avilés
This is the only work by the Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer in Spain. In contrast to the historic quarter of Avilés, it is pure modernity. Large white surfaces and curved shapes captivate the eye and are the calling card of a spectacular auditorium, lookout tower or dome.
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Museum of Human Evolution in Burgos
Although it may seem surprising, the city of Burgos has made a strong commitment to modernity to show visitors the origins of humankind. The architect and painter Juan Navarro Baldeweg conceived this building as a reproduction of the Sierra de Atapuerca (one of the most important prehistoric sites in the world) within the city. A large light box that also serves as a viewpoint overlooking the historic centre.
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Centro Botín in Santander
This is the "youngest" of the buildings we've suggested. It is an art centre designed by Renzo Piano right on the bay in Santander. A spectacular location for a building covered in 270,000 ceramic pieces that seems to float above the sea like a pier. It hosts exhibitions and various cultural events.
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