A conflict has erupted in Madrid over the city authorities’ plans to open a cultural center named after Robert Capa in the house at 10 Peironcely Street, where in 1936 one of the photographer’s most famous shots was taken. Capa’s heirs and the International Center of Photography (ICP) in New York have opposed the use of his name for this project, believing that the initiative is unrelated to the photographer’s work and legacy.
According to El Pais, the city bought the historic building for 800,000 euros to save it from demolition. However, the concept for the future center proposed by the mayor’s office does not include any museum or educational activities related to photography or the Civil War. Instead, the plan is to create a youth venue with workshops in painting, theater, music, and literature. As a result, the ICP has officially prohibited the use of Robert Capa’s name for this facility.
Reaction of heirs and experts
ICP Director Cynthia Young stated that the mayor’s project has nothing to do with Capa and his contribution to photojournalism. She emphasized that worldwide, sites bearing Capa’s name are linked to photography and wartime memory, while the Madrid project does not meet these criteria. According to her, the city is missing an opportunity to create a unique site that could attract tourists and become a magnet for researchers and history enthusiasts.
Criticism also came from foreign experts. Anselm Hartinger, Director of the Leipzig City History Museum, noted that in Germany the experience of using Capa’s legacy for educational and cultural purposes has been successful. He emphasized that such centers can become important elements of cultural memory and tourism if their concept is built around photography and historical context.
City Hall’s position and future plans
Despite the protests, Madrid authorities intend to implement the project as originally planned. The 400-square-meter center is scheduled to open by 2028 after major reconstruction. According to city officials, the main goal is to support children and teenagers from socially vulnerable groups, rather than create a museum or research center dedicated to the Civil War.
Previously, the Ministry of Territorial Policy and Democratic Memory considered granting the house the status of a place of remembrance, but ultimately abandoned the idea. As a result, the historic building will be used for cultural and educational programs not directly related to Capa’s name.
Historical context
The house at 10 Peironcely Street became famous thanks to a photograph by Robert Capa, published in The New York Times in 1936. The image symbolized the suffering of Madrid’s civilians during the first air raids. The Peironcely, 10 public platform—which brings together local residents and cultural figures—fought for many years to preserve the building and create a memorial space there. However, their proposals were not supported by city authorities.
