Whether you have a ticket in hand or you’re just exploring the neighborhood, it’s always a good idea to venture into Atocha Station.
Spain’s largest railway located in Madrid made its debut in 1851, in a wrought iron renewal style by architect Alberto de Palacio Elissagne partnered with the infamous Gustave Eiffel. Nowhere in the station is more iconic than the tropical garden, with soft light shining down from the glass ceiling.
Approximately 7,000 plants of 260 species reach towards the roof, helping to keep the atmosphere fresh and tranquil. There are cafes and shops inside, along with interesting art to ponder.
Outside of the station, don’t miss a pair of supersized sculptures commissioned by Spain called Dia y Noches, by artist Antonio Lopez.
They were modeled after the face of his granddaughter and made of bronze between 2002 and 2008.
Destinations by rail include local hubs, high speed tracks to major cities like Barcelona and Sevilla, and international connecting to Marseilles, France. A special train for tourists called the Cervantes heads to Alcalá de Henares, the town where the celebrated author of Don Quixote was born.
2 thoughts on “The Largest Railway in Spain: Atocha Station”
Yes I wish I got to see the memorial insiduse but it was a quick visit.
I remembered how emotions were still raw after the 2004 attack. But I’m glad I visited, because I’m always interested in seeing how people view transport hubs, and how they can be much more than shuttling people in and out of different transport modes.