Old Casino (Casino Antiguo de Castellón)
On Puerta del Sol square, opposite the Episcopal Palace, is the Casino Antiguo de Castellón, one of the oldest and most prestigious cultural institutions in Spain. It is a building of eclectic and elegant architecture, which is a witness and participant in many events and initiatives in Castellon.
Casino Antiguo de Castellón was founded in 1814 as a social and cultural club for the city’s elite. Its first president was the Baron de Benicasim, and its first headquarters was his own home on Caballeros Street. In 1876, the Casino moved to its current building, which was previously the palace of the Tirado family, built in the 18th century. In 1923, the Casino commissioned architects Joaquim Moragas and Francisco Maristany to thoroughly reform the building, giving it its current appearance and character.
The interior of Casino Antiguo de Castellón is richly decorated and furnished, preserving many original elements and furniture. It is worth paying attention to the beautiful stairs made of marble and wood, which lead to the upper floors. On the first floor, there is a ballroom, where you can admire paintings on the ceiling and walls, depicting scenes from history and mythology. On the second floor, there is a mirror room, where you can see a collection of mirrors from different epochs and countries. On the third floor, there is a library room, where you can see valuable books and documents related to the history and culture of the Casino and the city.
Casino Antiguo de Castellón is not just a building, but also a museum. In the Casino, you can visit an exhibition dedicated to contemporary art, where you can see works by famous artists such as Picasso, Miró, Dalí, and Tàpies. In the Casino, you can also see an exhibition dedicated to the history of the Casino, where you can see objects and souvenirs related to the life and work of its members and guests.
Casino Antiguo de Castellón is not only a museum, but also a center of culture. In the Casino, various events and initiatives take place, such as concerts, performances, conferences, workshops, or meetings, which aim to promote and disseminate cultural, social, and educational values.
