Matadero Madrid Madrid
Historic and Contemporary
Some of the coolest galleries I have been in are right here in Madrid. This city has done a tremendous job of converting historic buildings into incredible community spaces for art and culture. One of my favourites is the Matadero Madrid.
The beautiful and interesting buildings of the Matadero were constructed between 1911 and 1925 in the neomudéjar architectural style, and this vast site served as the slaughterhouse and cattle market until 1996. I am not a vegetarian, but I try not to think about this too much.
In 2006, 10 years after the closure of the slaughterhouse, the Matadero, as we now know it, reopened as a bustling centre for contemporary arts. Today, there are a whole host of events and exhibitions, offered all year round, highlighting the visual arts, fashion, design, film, and music. There are even artists’ work spaces on-site, making collaboration between artists and the community possible. It’s always fun to take a peek and see the artists at work.
Many exhibitions are free to the public while others, like the films at the Cineteca or fashion shows at Nave 16, have ticketed entries. But on a sunny day, it’s a joy to simply come and hang out. Sit with a coffee or glass of wine at one of the many tables in the plaza and watch Madrid at play. While the Matadero is a little outside the central core of the city, the short metro ride is so worth it to discover and enjoy this unique and vibrant place.
Explore Madrid like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Madrid guide.
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Madrid
VETA Galería
Fine art in Carabanchel
VETA is the biggest contemporary art gallery in the city, so once you’ve had your fill of the Old Masters at the Prado, why not get off the beaten track?
By
Andrea
Roberts
Kintaro
Loosen your belt!
Don’t worry about collecting and counting plates - there’s an “all you can eat” lunchtime menu, you can fill your boots for a very reasonable fixed price.
By
Andrea
Roberts
Mercado de Chamberí
On-trend tradition
Each covered market has its own flavour; Chamberí I would say is high quality and traditional but also one that has adapted successfully to the times.
By
Andrea
Roberts
Museo Sorolla
Our national impressionist
His favourite time seemed to be that magic hour when the sun is sinking low in the West and turns everything a golden pinky hue.
By
Andrea
Roberts
Casa Dani
A ‘tortilla’ unlike any other
"Casa Dani" in my opinion makes the best Spanish omelette in Madrid, and this is coming from a passionate Spaniard himself!
By
Cesar
Gonzalez
La Hummuseria
For hummus lovers
"La Hummuseria" is a vegetarian restaurant in Madrid made for hummus fans like me! My favourite's the one with mushrooms. Protip: say yes to the egg...
By
Elena
Quintero
Konnichiwa
Japanese street food
"Konnichiwa" is a Japanese street food restaurant in Madrid. Their specialty is the ramen with the egg, which they cook with a blowtorch at your table!
By
María José
Morr
Sala de Despiece
Unique gastronomique experience
"Sala de Despiece" Madrid defines itself as "a bar with a kitchen and a great tasting of raw materials". Once I was there I understood.
By
Elena
Quintero
Harvey's Cocktail Bar
Welcome to the '50s
"Harvey's Cocktail Bar" in Madrid makes me feel as if I've entered an American vintage speakeasy. Unlike new hip retro chains, this one feels authentic...
By
Elena
Quintero
Bosco de Lobos
The architects' refuge
"Bosco de Lobos" in Madrid is 'a bar that serves Italian food in a garden. It's a brunch and meeting place...' My favorite though, is their 'library'...
By
Elena
Quintero
Quesería Cultivo
You're welcome cheese lovers
"Quesería Cultivo" is a cheese shop in Madrid where you can find a wide artisanal selection. My protip: do get some bread from two numbers down the street.
By
Elena
Quintero
Heading to Madrid?
241 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Madrid?
✓ 241 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
