Serrería Belga Madrid

Old Sawmill, New Gallery

Catherine from Madrid

"Escape the crowds of Madrid’s famous art museums and explore Serrería Belga, a repurposed sawmill turned vibrant art space with diverse exhibitions!"

The Golden Triangle of Art, as it’s known in Madrid, comprises three of the most famous art galleries in the world — the Prado, Reina Sofía and Thyssen-Bornemisza. However, hidden in the back streets around the Paseo del Prado are plenty of enjoyable, smaller galleries. My favourite being the recently-opened Serrería Belga.

Madrid repurposes their old spaces really well, and the Serrería Belga is no exception. Built between 1924 and 1925, this building was originally a sawmill belonging to the Belgian Society of the Pine Forests of El Paular. During these years, a sawmill was needed to accommodate the demand for wood required for residential construction in the area around nearby Atocha Station.

A fine example of the innovative architecture of reinforced concrete, forged beams, and concrete pillars in the early 20th Century, today, this building is a cool and modern space used to showcase some of Madrid’s most diverse arts and culture. Serrería Belga is where art, photography, music, literature, poetry, photography, fashion and design intertwine.

Spread over three floors, each highlighting different mediums, I especially love their photography exhibitions, particularly those centering on Madrid's music scenes through the decades. The exhibitions here always bring the city's dynamic past to life in such interesting ways.

If you're in the mood to enjoy some of Madrid's most unique art away from the tourist throngs of its neighboring galleries, Serrería Belga is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Madrid's cultural scene and experience a bit of the city's fascinating past.

Art & culture

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Madrid Spotter Catherine

About me I am from beautiful Vancouver, Canada, but am now an English teacher in Spain. I have been a passionate solo traveler for nearly two decades and love everything food, art, and travel related. I also enjoy photography and writing about my travels. Nothing brings me more joy than to wander around a new city meeting people and embracing the local culture. It has brought so much to my life to step out of my comfort zone and experience all of the wonderful things the world has to offer. I have traveled throughout North America, Europe, and parts of the Middle East and there are still...

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Calle de la Alameda, 15

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915787758

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Nov 12, 2025

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