Carrera de San Jerónimo is one of the most emblematic and busy streets of the centre of Madrid. The demolition of some of the historic buildings which, as time went by fell into disuse, led to a complete change of this street. Nowadays, it is regarded as one of the main streets of old Madrid. Many historic businesses (some of which still exist), opened up and important people of the social and cultural life of Madrid were often seen there. We invite you to know a bit of the history of this important street. Afterwards, we will visit Chamberí Station. Today, we will take A walk into the Past of Carrera de San Jerónimo.

EL CAMINO DEL SOL (THE WAY TO SOL)

The street started to be built at the beginning of the XVII century. At first it was known as Camino del Sol. It was called like that because it connected La Puerta del Sol to the present Plaza de las Cortes (Spanish Parliament Square). The current name has its origin in the Iglesia de San Jerónimo, even though it is not located nearby. This church stands behind the Prado Museum.

However, the bell tower can be seen from some parts of Carrera de San Jerónimo Street. In this street, there were some buildings such as Torre de la Música (a drinks kiosk), Hospital de los Italianos ( which assisted Italian sick people without financial resources who lived in Madrid ), and Monasterio de Pinto where nuns lived. Unfortunately, none of them exist today. When these buildings were pulled down, the street was widened. This allowed passers-by to walk at their leisure and thus, it turned into a lively area.

COUNTLESS FAMOUS PLACES

In Carrera de San Jerónimo, many places, which later became famous, started to open to the public. We can highlight Fontana de Oro, a café built at the end of the XVIII century where the literary set and artists spent long hours. The first novel written by Benito Perez Galdós, who lived in Madrid, was named after this café.

Another place we must mention is the restaurant called Lhardy which was inaugurated in 1839 and it is still very successful even though it is one of the oldest in Madrid. Not only does it stand out due to its marvellous façade but also to its stately rooms. The plot of the novel El Maestro de Esgrima, written by Arturo Pérez Reverte, is set in one of these rooms. In 1855, the well-known pastry shop, Casa Mira, was inaugurated. At present, it continues to be very appealing and attracts a large number of customers.

A FILM STREET

A curious fact: the first screening held in Spain, took place in Carrera de San Jerónimo Street. It was carried out with the film projector of the Lumiére brothers in 1896. There is a commemorative plaque on number 34 of the street to remind us.

Old photographs: www.madridantiguo.org
Current photograph: Pablo Sánchez