Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Parque de Berlín

On my final day in Madrid—a Sunday—before my flight back to the U.S. (after a year living in France), Damien, Gregorio, and I strolled around in Parque de Berlín (Berlin Park) after lunch.

I had never been there before, nor remembered hearing about it the years I lived in Madrid. A pretty standard Madrid park, it's up in Chamartín, just east of Bernabéu Stadium:

Berlin Park Madrid - Map

The main fountain features three parts of the Berlin Wall.




We saw this bear statue, representing Berlin, and apparently the park also has a Beethoven statue—but we didn't go past it on our stroll.



IF YOU GO...

What: Berlin Park
Where: Av. de Ramón y Cajal, 2, 28016
Metro: Concha Espina (Line 9)

Tuesday, November 1, 2016

Matadero Madrid

I was also surprised to discover that I'd never gone to (nor really heard much about) Matadero Madrid during my two years living in the city. So on my most recent visit last month, it was a must-see destination.


Located near the Legazpi metro stop (lines 3, 6), Matadero Madrid is a free cultural center that used to be an old slaughterhouse. There are many buildings and outdoor areas that make up the complex, and is well worth a visit in my opinion.


You'll find movies (in the cineteca), galleries, exhibitions, workshops, libraries, work tables, food stands, local artists selling work, and more.
















IF YOU GO...

What: Matadero Madrid
Where: Centro de Creación Contemporánea; Plaza de Legazpi, 8
Metro: Legazpi (Lines 3, 6)
Hours: The plaza and Matadero street are open for pedestrians every day from 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. However, many exhibitions and activities are in the afternoon: Tuesday to Friday, 4 - 9 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday, and holidays, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; closed Mondays 
Price: Entrance is free. Cineteca tickets are 3.50 euros each.
Tips: 
  • Check for the day's events on the website (on the right side, underneath the calendar, where it says "Hoy [date]").
  • Here's a map of the various spaces and entrances.