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Emperador Castellana Tower

Emperador Castellana Tower Madrid: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

The Emperador Castellana Tower, formerly known as Torre Espacio, is a defining feature of Madrid’s modern skyline. Located in the prestigious Cuatro Torres Business Area (CTBA), this 230-meter skyscraper not only exemplifies cutting-edge architecture but also reflects Madrid’s emergence as a global business and cultural hub. Designed by the acclaimed Henry N. Cobb of Pei Cobb Freed & Partners, the tower is renowned for its innovative transformation from a square base to an ogival crown, topped by one of Spain’s largest rooftop flags. Since its completion in 2007 and subsequent acquisition by Grupo Emperador in 2015, the tower has become a center for international diplomacy, commerce, and urban sophistication.

This comprehensive guide provides up-to-date details on the tower’s history, architecture, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and travel tips. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, business traveler, or a tourist keen to explore Madrid’s modern landmarks, this guide will help you plan your visit.

For official updates and more details, refer to the Torre Emperador Castellana Official Site, Madrid Tourism - Cuatro Torres Business Area, and Pei Cobb Freed & Partners Project Page.

Torre de Cristal skyscraper in Cuatro Torres Business Area Madrid

Introduction
Historical and Architectural Overview
Visitor Information
Sustainability and Innovation
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visual Resources
Useful Links
Conclusion
References

Historical and Architectural Overview

Development and Ownership

Construction of the Emperador Castellana Tower began in 2004, marking the transformation of Madrid’s northern business district. Originally named Torre Espacio, it was the first of four skyscrapers to be completed in the CTBA and briefly held the title of Spain’s tallest building in 2007.

In 2015, the Filipino conglomerate Grupo Emperador acquired the tower, cementing a new era of international influence. Its ownership underscores the global reach of Filipino enterprise and resulted in the tower’s current name, Torre Emperador Castellana. This high-profile transaction also contributed to financing other city developments, such as the Caleido Tower (Pinoy Builders).

Architectural Design

The tower’s design, by Henry N. Cobb of Pei Cobb Freed & Partners, is characterized by a unique evolution from a square base to an elegant, ogival form as it rises—a geometry defined by a cosine curve (PCF-P). Its glass façade interacts dynamically with Madrid’s sunlight, and the building is crowned with a prominent Spanish flag.

Structurally, the building is engineered to withstand events such as the significant 2006 fire between the 40th and 42nd floors, which left the structure unharmed and demonstrated its resilience.

Notable Features

Height: 230 meters (including flag), 56 floors above ground, 6 below.
Interior: Features a high-altitude Catholic chapel, panoramic Élkar restaurant on the 33rd floor, and advanced security systems.
Sustainability: Holds BREEAM In-Use “Excellent” certification for sustainability and environmental performance.
Awards: Recognized with the Society of American Registered Architects’ Design Award of Honor (2019) and International Property Awards’ Best Commercial High-Rise Europe (2015).
Tenant Mix: Embassies (UK, Canada, Australia, Netherlands), Spanish Banking Association, Grupo Emperador, and various multinational corporations.

Tenants and Usage

The Emperador Castellana Tower is primarily an office building, home to embassies, corporate headquarters, innovation labs, and financial institutions. Its prestige attracts an international tenant mix, and as of July 2023, occupancy stands around 82%.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

General Access: The building operates primarily as an office tower, open Monday–Friday from 8:00 to 20:00. Public access is limited and generally restricted to tenants, guests, and those with reservations.
Élkar Restaurant: Located on the 33rd floor, Élkar offers lunch and dinner with panoramic city views. Typical hours are 1:00 PM–4:00 PM and 8:00 PM–11:00 PM. Reservations are essential.
Observation Deck: While some sources mention an observation deck, regular public access is currently limited to restaurant patrons, special events, or by appointment for guided tours.
Guided Tours: Available by appointment, focusing on architecture, sustainability, and cultural significance. Tours and events may require tickets, usually priced €10–€20.

For updated schedules and ticketing, consult the official website or Madrid tourism portal.

Access and Transportation

Address: Paseo de la Castellana 259D, Madrid, Spain
Metro: Begoña (Line 10), Chamartín (Lines 1 & 10); also near Plaza de Castilla
Bus: Multiple lines along Paseo de la Castellana
Train: Proximity to Chamartín station for commuter and AVE trains
Airport: 15 minutes by car to Madrid-Barajas Airport
Parking: Six levels of underground parking (1,270 spaces), including electric vehicle chargers
Biking: Public bike docking stations nearby

Amenities and Visitor Tips

Restaurant: Michelin-starred Élkar, offering innovative Mediterranean cuisine
Event Spaces: Available for corporate and private functions, equipped with advanced audiovisual technology
Chapel: One of Europe’s highest chapels, occasionally hosts masses and memorials
Accessibility: Fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms
Dress Code: Business casual recommended
Photography: Allowed in public areas and restaurant; restricted in secured office zones and chapel

Guided Tours and Dining

Guided Tours: Book in advance to explore the tower’s architectural highlights and sustainability features
Dining: Reservations at Élkar are strongly recommended, especially during peak hours and sunsets

Sustainability and Innovation

Certifications: Double “Excellent” and “Exceptional” BREEAM ES ratings (Next Floor Dossier)
WELL Certification: Next Floor co-working space is Madrid’s first WELL Certified environment
Energy Efficiency: Advanced HVAC, double-glazed façade, natural lighting, and smart building management
Mobility: Support for electric vehicles and green commuting
Social Responsibility: Regularly updated sustainability practices and tenant participation in corporate responsibility initiatives

Nearby Attractions

Cuatro Torres Business Area: Home to Madrid’s four tallest skyscrapers—Torre Emperador Castellana, Torre de Cristal, Torre Cepsa, and Torre PwC.
Torre Caleido: The “Fifth Tower,” with shopping and public gardens
Paseo de la Castellana: Lined with cultural venues, luxury hotels, and flagship stores
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium: A must-visit for football fans
Plaza de Castilla & Torres KIO: Modern architectural and historical landmarks nearby

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Torre Emperador Castellana visiting hours?
A: Monday–Friday, 8:00–20:00 for general access. Élkar restaurant has separate lunch and dinner hours. Guided tours and special events may have their own schedules.

Q: Are tickets required to visit?
A: General lobby and retail area access is free. Tours, events, and restaurant reservations may require tickets or bookings.

Q: Is the tower accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the building is fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and dedicated parking.

Q: Can I visit the observation deck?
A: Regular observation deck access is not available; panoramic views are accessible via the Élkar restaurant or through special tours/events.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment. Check the official website for current offerings.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Photography is permitted in public zones and the restaurant, but restricted in office areas and the chapel.

Visual Resources

High-quality images of the tower’s exterior, panoramic restaurant, and interior spaces are available on the official site.
Virtual tours and architectural galleries enhance pre-visit planning.

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Useful Links

Conclusion

Torre Emperador Castellana stands as a beacon of Madrid’s urban transformation, merging innovative architecture, sustainability, and cultural diversity. Its strategic location in the CTBA, distinguished design, and international tenant mix make it a symbol of the city’s global ambitions. Whether enjoying panoramic dining at Élkar, attending a business event, or exploring Madrid’s contemporary architecture, the tower offers a unique and enriching experience.

For the latest visitor updates, ticketing information, and events, consult the official website and Madrid’s tourism portals. Download the Audiala app for interactive tours, event notifications, and exclusive content on Madrid’s landmarks.