Café Gijón

Café Gijón

Paseo de Recoletos (Madrid) 02

Café Madrid-Museo cera

Café Gijón is a historic café located in Madrid, Spain. Established in 1888 by the Asturian entrepreneur Gumersindo García, it has become a significant cultural and literary landmark in the city. The café is situated on the Paseo de Recoletos, a prominent boulevard in central Madrid.

History

Café Gijón was founded on 15 May 1888 and quickly became a popular meeting place for writers, artists, and intellectuals. The café's name is derived from the city of Gijón in the region of Asturias, reflecting the origin of its founder. Over the years, it has hosted numerous notable figures from the Spanish literary and artistic scenes, including Ramón María del Valle-Inclán, Federico García Lorca, and Camilo José Cela.

Cultural Significance

Café Gijón is renowned for its role in the cultural and intellectual life of Madrid. It has been a gathering spot for members of the Generation of '98, the Generation of '27, and other literary movements. The café's atmosphere and clientele have inspired many works of literature and art. It is often compared to other famous literary cafés in Europe, such as Les Deux Magots in Paris and Caffè Greco in Rome.

Architecture and Interior

The interior of Café Gijón retains much of its original charm, with classic wooden furnishings, marble tables, and large mirrors. The décor reflects the café's long history and its status as a cultural institution. The outdoor terrace on the Paseo de Recoletos is a popular spot for patrons to enjoy their coffee while observing the bustling activity of the boulevard.

Events and Activities

Café Gijón continues to host literary gatherings, book presentations, and cultural events. It is also known for the Café Gijón Literary Prize, established in 1949 by the writer Fernando Fernán Gómez. This prestigious award is given annually to outstanding works of Spanish literature.

Notable Patrons

Throughout its history, Café Gijón has been frequented by many prominent figures, including:

• Ramón María del Valle-Inclán
• Federico García Lorca
• Camilo José Cela
• Antonio Buero Vallejo
• Gloria Fuertes

Related Pages

• Madrid
• Paseo de Recoletos
• Generation of '98
• Generation of '27
• Café culture

See Also

• Les Deux Magots
• Caffè Greco
• Literary café