Circle of Fine Arts

The Círculo de Bellas Artes (CBA), founded in 1880 by a small group of artists, is one of the most important private cultural centers in Europe. This multidisciplinary center boasts a program of activities ranging from the visual arts to literature, including science, philosophy, film, and the performing arts, taking into account the most innovative artistic movements. The CBA is a private, non-profit cultural entity declared a 'Center for the Protection of Fine Arts and of Public Utility'. During the early years of the 20th century, prominent figures in the cultural life of the time served on the CBA's board, such as Jacinto Benavente and Carlos Arniches, while the young Picasso attended its painting classes as a student and Ramón María del Valle-Inclán frequented its salons. The Círculo's current headquarters was a project commissioned to the architect Antonio Palacios, who is also responsible for such emblematic Madrid buildings as the Cibeles Palace, the Bank of Spain on Alcalá Street, and the Maudes Palace, among others. It was inaugurated by Alfonso XIII on Monday, November 8, 1926, with an exhibition of paintings by Ignacio Zuloaga in the Goya Room. The rooftop terrace of the Círculo de Bellas Artes boasts one of the most spectacular views of Madrid, an unparalleled perspective of the city's urban fabric, with the buildings of Gran Vía very close by. Access is via a glass-doored elevator on the top floor, which provides direct access from the lobby to this privileged space, where the bar-restaurant, run by Asturian chef Manuel Berganza, a student of Sergi Arola, is located. Tickets can be purchased at reception.