Refections of the past II

Reflecting the old 'Crédito Industrial Gijonés' building. Constructed in 1902 as the headquarters of the bank, during the phase of rapid industrialisation and growth of Gijón at the start of the 20th Century.

Paradoxically this growth was helped by the loss of the last of Spain's overseas colonies, Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Phillipines in 1898 and the consequent repatriation of capital to Spain.

The bank itself only lasted nine years after making large investments in steelworks, railways, Gijón's tramway, gas and electricity utilities and other enterprises.

On its demise the building was taken over by a rival, the more conservative Banco de Gijón, which was eventually absorbed into what is now Banco Santander.

During the Civil War the buildings solid basement served as a shelter from the air-raids and naval bombardments of Gijón.

Nowadays the building is mainly given over luxury apartments, but still has a Santander branch on the ground floor.

Previous reflection:

I