Fundación Carlos de Amberes renovates historic Madrid headquarters

The Fundación Carlos de Amberes, one of Europe's oldest institutions, is undertaking a major renovation of its historic headquarters on Calle Claudio Coello in Madrid's Barrio de Salamanca. Designed by architects Antonio Ruiz Barbarín and Chus Manzanares, the project will expand the cultural complex to over 2,000 square meters, including a 500-square-meter temporary exhibition hall with five-meter ceilings, a 150-seat auditorium, and a 400-square-meter terrace. The renovation respects the building's heritage as a Bien de Interés Cultural while modernizing facilities. During construction, the foundation's Rubens masterpiece 'El Martirio de San Andrés' is on temporary display at the Museo Nacional del Prado. Founded in 1594 by Flemish merchant Carlos de Amberes as a hospital for pilgrims from the 17 provinces of the Netherlands, the institution has evolved into a cultural center focused on European thought. King Felipe VI currently serves as patron. The renovation aims to position the foundation as a leading contemporary cultural venue while preserving its four-century legacy.