Plaza de la Paja Madrid
Historical Madrid
Plaza de la Paja is a large square in the La Latina neighbourhood of Madrid, which slopes down from Plaza de los Carros to Calle Segovia.
It's on the edge of the oldest part of town called "Madrid de las Austrias", an area that includes La Plaza de la Villa, la Plaza del Oriente and la Plaza Mayor - the heart of the old city. Back in the 13th and 14th centuries, there was a lively market here, selling straw (paja) for the mules that drew the carts (carros) hence the name.
Great restaurants to choose from on the square include, Vida Burger (vegan burgers) and Delic, which has wonderful cakes, cocktails and coffee. Sitting outside is a good option; the trees make it a very pleasant place to be.
Calle Redondilla (bottom of the square to the left) has maybe the oldest standing building in Madrid at Number 10 - it's from the 15th century but remains from the Bronze Age have been discovered in this area. Take a right from there onto Angosta de los Mancebos you'll find yourself on Calle Bailen, with the Viaducto, the Royal Palace and the distant mountains to your right.
Enjoy exploring!
Explore cities 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
ChurrerÃa La Andaluza – Churros like a local!
ChurrerÃa La Andaluza is off the tourist track and serves mostly loyal locals. Buy some to go, or eat them in the adjoining café...
By
Andrea
Roberts
San Antonio de los Alemanes – Incredible Frescoes
Since 1615, San Antonio de los Alemanes has been the home of La Hermandad del Refugio, an association that helps those in need through meals and donations.
By
Catherine
Driver
Dim Sum Market – Where Traditional Meets Modern
Everything is so flavourful and tasty! It’s difficult not to always eat the same things I know and love so I try to get something different every time I go.
By
Catherine
Driver
Yatai Market – A Journey Through Asia
As you enter, rows of food stalls line this cool, industrial space, and stepping in here is like being transported to the bustling food markets of Asia.
By
Catherine
Driver
Teatros del Canal – Modern Performance at Its Best
This is one of the most diverse spaces in the city for arts and culture and it is evident that the folks here take a great deal of pride in their work.
By
Catherine
Driver
La Dama del Manzanares – Art With a View
Sunset is the perfect time to come and visit La Dama del Manzanares. Not only will you get a natural light show in the sky, but she comes alive as well.
By
Catherine
Driver
Café del Art – Unique Coffee in La Latina
Café del Art is not only a great place for a liquid pick-me-up, but they also offer delicious snacks such as traditional tostadas or carrot cake.
By
Catherine
Driver
Olavide Bar de Libros – The Sweetest Bookstore
The books are the star of the show here, and Bar de Libros has a beautiful collection devoted to poetry, fiction, philosophy, and the classics.
By
Catherine
Driver
Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida – A Masterpiece
St. Anthony of Padua is one of Madrid’s finest examples of Neoclassical art. The interior is austere, but its ceiling is where the magic lies.
By
Catherine
Driver
Absent Cocktail Room and Garden – A Cozy Hideaway
Comfy burgundy, cream, and blue chairs, flanked by a wooden bookshelf and bar, are softly lit by candles and dim, tasseled chandeliers.
By
Catherine
Driver
La Gatoteca – Crazy Cat People, Rejoice!
Non-profit La Gatoteca partners with ABRIGA, a rescue organization committed to feline well-being, and all of the cats here are available for adoption.
By