This is not a movie plot, although it could inspire one. Actually, the ghost metro station has become a historical spot in the capital city of Spain. The Chamberí’s underground station, holds so much history that it has become a main attraction in Madrid.
The story of this metro station dates back to October 17th, 1919. Chamberí became one of the eight stops of the first line of metro ever created in Spain.
Andén 0, The Ghost Metro Station
Andén 0 is the current name of the Chamberí’s platform. It was designed by Spanish known architect, Antonio Palacios. The legend says that during the Spanish civil war, many people took refuge in the station.
The walls of the station show evidence of how the bombings affected the infrastructure. Sometimes at night, people have claimed hearing voices and screams of people who probably died there, as a consequence of the war.
It Remains Closed Since 1966
Following the Spanish post-war reforms, the metro of Madrid was a primary concern. Chamberí metro station is situated on line 1, between the stops of Bilbao and Iglesia.
In 1960 the Madrid Metro Community decided to renovate all metro stations, and expand the lines. The platforms were lengthened from 60 metres (197 feet) to 90 metres (295 feet). However, Chamberí’s closeness to neighborring stations didn’t allow for its expansion. Therefore, it was officially shut down in 1966, and hasn’t been used since.
Free ”Ghost Station” Experience
Due to the rising interest in the story of this metro station, it was decided to convert it into a museum. In 2008, it was opened to allow its visitors a free of charge experience.
Andén 0 still represents the 60s in Spain. All billboards inside were preserved, and once you get in, you feel that you have reached a different era, and a different world. Chamberís’s ghost station is definitely worth a visit!
Photos: Pixabay, Metro de Madrid.