Due to the popularity in the late 19th century of the age-old Basque pelota game, a frontón (or, pelota court) was built in Madrid to host sporting events. As of 30 March 2024, this court can be visited for free by the general public.
Architect Joaquín Rucoba—whose projects not only include Teatro Arriaga and City Hall in Bilbao, but also the bullring and Mercado de Atarazanas market in Malaga—was responsible for designing the Beti Jai Pelota Court in 1893, which takes its name from the Basque language. Years ago, a variation of the wall sport was exported and rebranded as jai alai, which translates as “joyful celebration”. With construction work completed a year later, the building with a capacity for up to 4,000 spectators was inaugurated on 29 April 1894 in the Chamberí district.
Up until 1918, it functioned as a frontón before evolving into a multifunctional space, serving as a garage, police station, prison, and a workshop for plaster and plasterboard, among other uses.
In 1991, the pelota court was declared a National Monument and later, in 2011, it was further recognised as an Asset of Cultural Interest (BIC). By May 2015, Madrid City Council had acquired the Beti Jai, commencing renovation efforts aimed at preserving the essence of the building. During this process, thorough research was caried out (in the form of old newspapers, library documents, and collaboration with associations and experts) to ensure that the court retained as much of its original character as possible. The renovation work was completed in 2019.
Permanent reopening of the pelota court
To coincide with its 130th anniversary, in March 2024 the Beti Jai Pelota Court was permanently opened to the general public. Plans are also underway to inaugurate an interpretation centre in Spring 2024, welcoming visitors Tuesdays through Sundays. Here, they will be able to learn about the history and restoration of the building.
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