Casino Mercantil

The mercantile Casino is situated in the plot of land, which the palace of Don Juan de Coloma, secretary of Fernando el Católico, previously occupied. The facade, made in 1912 by Francisco Albidaña, is one of the most representative of late Zaragoza Modernism. It is divided into three floors flanked by baywindows, highlighting the multicoloured decoration  with naturalistic motifs. The whole unit is finished with a terrace with pergola and a side tower that break the symmetry. On the inside the decorative programme of the Read Room and of the restaurant stand out, as well as the foyer and the main stairs.

The cultural activity, which was developed in this centre during the first half of our century , must be highlighted. Artists, writers, journalists and critics met in its rooms in lively gatherings; it was also the headquarters of the Ateneo and of the first and only exhibition room, which existed in the city for a long time. It has been waiting since 1984 to be declared Property of cultural Interest.