Caixa Forum Madrid, [object Object]

Paseo del Prado, 36, Madrid

4.1

Introduction

The Madrid's Contemporary Art Museum and CaixaForum Madrid are located near a series of important museums that have classical art works, such as the Prado Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. The entire project cost $94 million and was funded by the La Caixa Foundation. The museum, designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron, is based on a century-old power plant that has been carefully renovated. The project is a valuable example of preserving historical heritage for the city. Local comments suggest that the power plant building itself has great historical significance and is an important industrial heritage. The 19th-century brick walls have been fully preserved, but in order to reduce damage caused by excessive tourist traffic, the designers added a tunnel under the square in front of the building, which allows visitors to bypass the walls and enter the interior of the building. The underground exhibition area has two levels, and the highest point of the entire old building includes two iron-like attic structures. The most stunning feature is that the architects have created a 24-meter high vertical three-dimensional hanging garden. The walls are covered with green plants, all facing upwards, making it unique. If you want to experience how they grow firsthand, you must visit in person. The new art gallery focuses on exhibitions, education, and debates, including touring exhibitions and other activities. The opening exhibition showcased the works of 37 contemporary artists including Cindy Sherman, Cornelia Parker, and Richard Long.