Matadero Madrid

The 24 Best Things to Do in Madrid, Spain

"A former slaughterhouse on the Manzanares river transformed into a contemporary arts hub hosting experimental theater, exhibitions and cultural programming—an example of adaptive reuse and a center for modern creative life in the city." - Siobhan Reid Siobhan Reid Siobhan Reid is an NYC-based writer, editor, and copywriter. She is currently the editor-in-residence at The Vintner Project and was previously an editor at Travel + Leisure, covering culture, design, style, and wellness. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

"A slaughterhouse for most of the 20th century (hence the name), the Matadero today is a bustling hub for multitudinous arts pursuits. Drop by on any given day for an awe-inspiring spectrum of cultural activity: take a urban cycling course,  catch a documentary at the Cineteca movie complex, check out the latest design show at the Central de Diseño, catch a concert at the Nave 16, or take the kids to an experimental reading session at the Casa del Lector. Along with presenting the latest in contemporary art and culture, the Matadero is also a hub for creatives, offering workspaces and residencies across a variety of disciplines, meaning a lot of the work you'll see here has been made on-site."

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"Across the river from most of central Madrid, Matadero Madrid is a former slaughterhouse and livestock market that's enjoying its new life as a cultural center. Divided into three spaces, the building is an excellent spot in which to dine, drink, and soak in contemporary art. The main areas are open during the day, but most exhibits and concerts take place at night. Given its distance from central Madrid, the place draws mostly locals. Visitors who make the stroll, however, won't be disappointed." - Ramsey Qubein

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"Once a slaughterhouse, this converted contemporary art center is an important creative hub adjacent to Lavapiés and well worth visiting for contemporary exhibitions and events." - Matthew Kepnes