Madrid lived a historic moment this past weekend with the reopening of the Beti Jai, the iconic fronton and cradle of Basque pelota 100 years ago in central Spain. This Saturday the first (exhibition) match was played since 1914, when the last one was played. Considered by many as “the most beautiful fronton in history”, the Beti Jai, whose name in Basque means “always party”, has recovered its splendor in Marqués de Riscal street, in the heart of the Spanish capital, and hopes to become a new reference for Basque pelota worldwide.

The reopening of this emblematic building not only represents a triumph for the preservation of the architectural heritage, but also for the sport of Basque pelota, which once again finds a home in this historic space. Built in 1894, the Beti Jai was a symbol of the sport and social life of the time, attracting thousands of fans from all over Spain until it closed in 1919. Its unique structure, with a neo-Mudejar style and ornamental details in wrought iron, make it a true work of art.

POLICE STATION, HARLEY DAVIDSON STORE OR CITROEN WORKSHOP

Before its last game in 1914 it was already being used as an Aeronautics Test Center and after that last game, between 1919 and 1920, Beti Jai was a factory for Studebaker vehicles; in 1923 it was a dealership for the Harley Davidson motorcycle brand and in 1925 it became a garage. Later it would be used as a police station during the defense of Madrid in the Civil War and during Franco’s regime it was used as a rehearsal place for the Falange music band. Later, the property passed to Citroen, who used it as a workshop.

The rehabilitation has respected every detail of the original building, which since 2011 is an Asset of Cultural Interest. During the inaugural event, political, sports and cultural figures were present to celebrate the reopening. The president of the Community of Madrid, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, highlighted in her speech the importance of “recovering historic spaces that are part of our identity and culture”.

RESTORED BY ARCHITECT ÁLVARO MARTÍN FIDALGO

The restoration of the Beti Jai, directed by the architect Álvaro Martín Fidalgo, has been a titanic task that included the consolidation of the stands, the restoration of the iron columns and the painting of the original decorative elements. In addition, the fronton has been adapted to the needs of modern sporting and cultural events, thus guaranteeing the continuity of this space as a living symbol of Madrid’s culture.

The Beti Jai, with its capacity for nearly 4,000 spectators, is once again a meeting point for Basque pelota fans in Madrid and promises to be a venue for future competitions, cultural activities and special events.