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.
Explore Madrid like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Madrid guide.
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
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
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
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
"Casa Dani" in my opinion makes the best Spanish omelette in Madrid, and this is coming from a passionate Spaniard himself!
By
"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
"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
"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
"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
"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
"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
"Tapería La Pequeña Graná" in Madrid is still holding on to the proper tradition of tapas -- more and more difficult to find. Also, they have great beer!
By
241 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 241 Insider Tips from our local Spotters