Matadero Madrid
Plaza de Legazpi 8, Madrid, Spain, 28045
Matadero Madrid reflects a changing city: this former slaughterhouse is now one of the Spanish capital's most important cultural spaces, serving as a laboratory for diverse artistic works. Visit to experience a thriving music, fashion, dance and cinema scene. If artists are creating it, you can find it at Matadero Madrid.
The basics
Visitors flock to this former slaughterhouse and current arts and cultural center in droves. The Matadero hosts exhibitions, theatrical performances, literature events, and more in open-air and indoor spaces. Beyond the arts, the space offers bike rentals and organic, simple cuisine at Cineteca Madrid's cantina.
Many spaces here are free to visit, and you can learn more about this cultural hub on a free guided tour. Some events require purchasing tickets either in-person or online. Be sure to prebook tickets to popular events like screenings organized by Cineteca Madrid and Naves Matadero's performance art events.
Things to know before you go
- Architecture fans shouldn't miss Matadero Madrid, which serves as a prime example of new Madrilenian architecture (nueva arquitectura Madrileña).
- Guided tours must be booked in advance.
- Kids can hang out at the Matadero's playground.
How to get there
Matadero Madrid is located in the city's Arganzuela district next to the Manzanares River. Take the 3 or 6 metro lines to Legazpi station. You can also pass by on a bike tour; several tours pedal along the Madrid Río Park—hugging the Manzanares River—and pass by Matadero Madrid.
When to get there
Most of the spaces here are open from Tuesday to Sunday, and close on Mondays. In the summer months, the exhibition spaces hold later hours. There's really no bad time to visit, and many of the spaces—including the plaza and galleries—are open early until late. Otherwise, you can arrive a little early to find your seats for a screening or performance; check the calendar to see what's on.
Exploring Madrid Río Park
Whether you're exploring by bike or on foot, you shouldn't miss Madrid Río Park, which is conveniently-situated next to Matadero Madrid. Featuring bike paths, playgrounds, and even an urban beach, this riverfront park offers 3.7-miles (6-kilometers) of winding waterfront to explore. You can book a bike tour or e-bike tour to see more in less time, or just rent bikes to pedal Madrid Río at your own pace.
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