Banco Santander is the headquarters of the multinational bank of worldwide renown. As the location of the bank’s founding, its neoclassical building is suitably majestic, featuring a large burrowed arch at its center and a rectangular pediment on its roof with a Spanish flag flying in the breeze. Pass through the central arch and gaze up at the enormous building as you consider its rich history. 

Look up at the elegant balconies that adorn the many windows spread symmetrically across the rectangular front of the building. Inspect the intricate carvings decorating the façade. These engraved artworks symbolize such themes as the arts, culture and industry. The bank headquarters opens onto the tree-lined, tiled boulevard of the Paseo de Pereda, which offers gorgeous views of Santander Bay. 

Across the road from the building, sit at a bench by the sea and snap photos of the impressive site. Think about how the building’s grandeur and architectural richness match its global status as a banking behemoth.  

Drive or take a taxi through the large hole that penetrates the building, gazing up at the sides of the arch’s interior. On the other side of the arch are the myriad plazas and quaint alleys that characterize the Santander City Center. Relax in the tapas bars and try the paella, rabas (fried calamari) and other traditional Cantabrian cuisine. 

Note that the bank’s building has been an iconic fixture of this coastal promenade since its completion in 1923. It was designed by local architect Javier González de Riancho

The Banco Santander flanks the boulevard on the northern side of the Jardines de Pereda set of gardens in the heart of the city. Ride a bus to a stop next to the building or walk northeast from the Santander railway station for 10 minutes to get here. Visit some of the nearby highlights, such as the Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria, the Centro Botín and Santander Cathedral.