In addition to being the most beautiful building in the Retiro Park, this Madrid pavilion is Spain’s most valuable and exceptional contribution to Iron and Glass Architecture. It was conceived by the architect Ricardo Velázquez Bosco with a vocation for permanence so that, once the Philippine exhibition of 1887 was over, it would be used as a hypothetical overseas museum. Built in under five months, it was assembled by the builder Bernardo Asín following the completion of the structural design and calculations by the versatile engineer Alberto de Palacio, whose contribution on this occasion was, if possible, even more essential. At present it is used as a venue for the temporary exhibitions of the Reina Sofía National Art Centre Museum.

© Vicente Tofiño