subject: Barrio Lavapiés, Madrid [print this page] Barrio Lavapis, Madrid Barrio Lavapis, Madrid
In Medieval times the neighbourhood was actually located outside of Madrid's city walls and has stayed a working class neighbourhood; to this day the area is characterised by its multicultural community, in fact it is estimated that approximately 50% of the population is non-Spanish, coming from China, India, Sub-Sahara, etc.
The flea market in El Rastro (which actually means Flea Market) is held every Sunday and the whole of the area including Lavapis has a lovely bohemian and artistic air about it. Trendy bars and restaurants are springing up everywhere and if you enjoy a vibrant, ethnic vibe, then visiting the Lavapies neighbourhood in Madrid is a must.
You have to be quite fit to tour Lavapis, with its steep hilly streets; the architecture is similar to the neighbourhoods of La Latina, Chueca and Malasaa, with narrow streets, balconies overhanging and pastel colour buildings housing small, local stores and apartments on top.
Lavapis is home to some of the most appealing attractions that Madrid has to offer including the Reina Sofia Museum of Modern Art, La Casa Encendida Cultural Centre and La Filmoteca, a fabulous cinema that screens avant-garde and contemporary movies.
Lavapis and the whole El Rastro neighbourhood incorporates some extremely interesting architectural and cultural attractions, including the Plaza de Tirso de Molina, named after the celebrated playwright Fray Gabriel Tllez, who's nickname was Tirso de Molina and who created the famous escapades of Don Juan. The Glorieta de Embajadores, also known as the Ambassadors neighbourhood, because a plague that broke out in the 17th century forced the city's embassies to relocate there.
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The El Rastro Flea Market, which is open every Sunday, eeks out to the Plaza, but the main market area is located in Plaza de Cascorro. If you want a more sophisticated shopping option then head to Calle Argumosa, where you will find some great boutiques and excellent bars where you can finish off a perfect day sightseeing with a drink and people-watching' session.
Reach Lavapis via Madrid's excellent metro system. There is a Lavapis stop; alternatively you can also get off at Tirso de Molina, La Latina, Embajadores, Atocha, Puerta de Toledo o Antn Martn. All are close by with interesting neighbourhoods to wander through until you reach your destination.
