Built at the start of the twentieth century, the Gran Vía is one of the city's main shopping streets. But what makes it really interesting is the array of architectural styles of its monumental buildings.

At the eastern end are the florid curves of the Metrópolis building and the vast megalithic Telefónica building, Spain's first skycraper. At Plaza de Callao is the wonderful Art Deco Capitol building, built just before the Civil War. Look up and almost every building is adorned with a fascinating statue or decoration.

Metro Gran Vía/Callao/Plaza de España/Banco de España