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.
Find your way with 252 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
The po’boys at Trikki are amazing! I tried the po’boy Forrest Gump which was filled with Cajun battered prawns and topped with their delicious spicy aioli.
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The real stars of the show are Santa Eulalia's luxurious cakes, cookies and pastries. They use only the best ingredients and traditional wood ovens.
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La Desayunería in Madrid serves hearty American breakfast classics like pancakes, fried chicken, and grilled cheese with options for all diets.
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Once a slaughterhouse, Matadero Madrid is now a stunning hub for art, film, and design—grab a coffee and soak in the city’s creative spirit.
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Librería Santa Bárbara, a charming bookstore in Madrid's Plaza de Santa Bárbara with a unique collection of used books, city maps, and art prints!
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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252 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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