The Atheneaum of Madrid is a private entity of a cultural nature which is defined as a scientific, literary and artistic society. Its aim is none other than the broadcasting of science and arts in general, as well as the promotion and development of scientific research and culture.

Even though the Atheneaum of Madrid is a private entity, it does not only offer activities for its members but it is also open to outsiders so that they can benefit from these activities too. Every day, the Atheneaum holds events that are open to the public such as conferences, round table discussions, exhibitions, book presentations, film projections or classical music concerts.

The Atheneaum especially stands out for the gatherings that take place there and which, depending on the day, deal with varied issues such as the current political situation, poetry or plastic arts. In short, we can say that the Ateneo de Madrid is a temple of culture where one can discuss issues or simply inquire about nearly every aspect of culture. Moreover, it oozes history related to Madrid. This is why we have chosen it for our section Places with a lot of History, being our last article about the National Anthropology Museum. Do you want to join us in this culture trip? Come with us!

AN INSTITUTION FOR SCIENCE AND THOUGHT

The Atheneaum of Madrid was institutionally created in 1820 by `men with liberal spirit willing to work for science and progress´, as is reflected in its statutes. The Atheneaum was set up in order to have a place in which to discuss matters about legislation, politics, economics and any other issue related to public use.

Nowadays, this institution is known as the old Ateneo Español. In those days, one could talk and listen and the intellectuals who were in vogue gathered there. At first, the Atheneaum did not have a fixed venue, and during many years it was not even represented in Spain as it operated from London. In 1835, the Atheneaum was completely reorganized and changed its name to Ateneo Científico y Literario, dedicating three out of its four departments to science and one to literature.

In 1860, it was renamed Ateneo Científico, Literario y Artístico. In 1884, it was set up in 21, Calle del Prado which is its current headquarters. Previously, the Atheneaum was in different buildings in Calle del Prado, Calle Carretas, Plazuela del Angel and Calle Montera. The building in 21, Calle del Prado was designed by the architects Luis de Landecho and Enrique Fort. It was decorated with valuable eclectic modernist paintings, and we must especially highlight the central hall ceiling. The Atheneaum has four main halls: the Salón de Actos (Assembly Hall) which is its most emblematic place and can seat up to 300 people, the Cacharrería, the Nueva Estafeta and the Salón Ciudad de Úbeda. The centenary library stands out due to its important literary collection. Lastly, the Atheneaum has two exhibition halls where great artists like Antoni Tápies, Antonio López or Daniel Garbade have exhibited their paintings.

DID YOU KNOW THAT…?

Distinguished personalities like Ramón María del Valle-Inclán, Miguel de Unamuno, Ángel Fernández de los Ríos and Gregorio Marañón were members of the Atheneaum of Madrid.