09/12/2024
Unknown Madrid: 4 unique experiences to explore
the city from a different perspective
We invite you to discover the most hidden and unknown parts of Madrid! The Spanish capital is full of unique corners that hide mysteries and secrets that few people know about… until now! If you’re a curious soul and want to explore beyond the traditional tourist circuits, you’re in the right place!
In this BYPILLOW post, we’ll recommend 4 experiences to get to know Madrid from a new perspective. And, of course, our hotel chain offers the best accommodations in Madrid, centrally located with all the comforts you need for a unique getaway.
Night walk through Almudena Cemetery: discover Madrid’s hidden history under the moonlight
If you’re looking for a unique experience in the capital, Almudena Cemetery offers a nocturnal journey full of mystery and history. As the largest cemetery in Spain, it’s an open-air museum featuring first-class sculptures, tombstones, and artistic monuments. Under the moonlight, this place exudes a special, almost magical atmosphere.
Guided tours reveal the lives (and deaths) of notable figures resting here, such as artists, politicians, and writers, while exploring a space rich in symbolism and impressive architecture. Tales of tragic love, Civil War anecdotes, and urban legends intertwine in every corner, uncovering a side of the city few dare to explore.
Visiting this unique spot is a fascinating way to connect with Madrid’s past and discover that even the most unexpected places hold stories worth telling.
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Exploring hidden rooftops: alternative lookouts to see Madrid from above
Do you want to discover the city from above? Then don’t miss visiting the most TOP rooftops and terraces in the city! Beyond the best-known viewpoints, the capital hides secret terraces offering a different perspective to enjoy panoramic views. Take note!
One such spot is the rooftop of the Círculo de Bellas Artes, which, although quite well-known, remains a must-see for its elegance and 360º views of the city.
At Hotel VP Plaza España, you’ll find Ginkgo Restaurante & Sky Bar, offering unique views of the Royal Palace and Sabatini Gardens. Its fusion cuisine and signature cocktails are perfect to pair with a spectacular sunset.
For something more alternative, the Hotel Riu Plaza España has a suspended glass bridge that allows you to literally walk above Madrid.
Casa Suecia Rooftop, located at NH Collection Madrid Suecia, combines vintage design with impressive views. It’s ideal for enjoying a sunny brunch or a chic evening of cocktails.
For a more intimate setting, the rooftop of Gourmet Experience Callao combines spectacular views with a gastronomic experience. It’s perfect for sipping a drink as the sun sets behind the mountains.
Right in the heart of Gran Vía is Picalagartos Sky Bar, a rooftop combining panoramic views with a menu of creative cocktails and modern cuisine. It’s perfect for a chic experience while taking in the city from above.
Another hidden gem is the terrace of the Reina Sofía Museum, a perfect spot to combine art and skyline in a cultural environment.
The Terrace of Santo Domingo, located on the roof of Hotel Santo Domingo, offers an intimate space with vertical gardens and an outdoor pool. It’s perfect for enjoying a drink in a more relaxed atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of the center.
And if you’re looking for something even more peculiar, head to the rooftop of Palacio de Cibeles, less visited but equally impressive, with direct views of the famous Cibeles fountain and its surroundings.
Each of these rooftops has its own personality, but they all share one thing in common: they’ll make you fall in love with Madrid from above 😉
Underground Madrid: visit the ancient civil war shelters and forgotten tunnels
And from the heights… to the underground! The most unknown Madrid is also found beneath the city streets. This is where we find secrets that transport us to other times, such as the Civil War, and to forgotten stories of the city.
Here is a list of Madrid’s must-visit shelters, especially for history lovers:
One of the most striking underground places is the Air-Raid Shelter in La Elipa. It is a shelter built to protect citizens from bombings during the Civil War and currently remains almost intact. Here you can see its corridors and rooms, which seem to tell stories of survival. Guided tours allow you to learn about what life was like underground during such a turbulent time in our recent history.
During the Civil War, Casa de Campo was a key battleground, and its grounds still hold bunkers and trenches. Some underground shelters are partially preserved, although access is limited for safety reasons.
In Parque del Capricho, we find a bunker, known as “Position Jaca” and it is one of the best-preserved Civil War shelters. It was used as an operations center by the Republican Army and offers a unique historical perspective of that period.
In this convent, located in Barrio de los Austrias, are the Caves of the Convent of the Carboneras, tunnels, and passageways dating back to the 17th century. It is said that some of these tunnels connected with other parts of the city, such as the Royal Palace.
The tunnels of the old Chamberí Station, also known as the “Ghost Station” are part of Andén 0. This old metro station, which ceased to operate in 1966, has been converted into an underground museum where you can see what Madrid’s trains and tunnels looked like in the early 20th century.
Additionally, you cannot miss the Tunnels of the Palacio de Cibeles, a subterranean system that, although now disused, was once a logistical system.
As you can see, this is a perfect experience for history lovers. Are you ready to discover it?
Tour of Historical Corralas: Experience Madrid’s Traditional Architecture That Survives the Test of Time
Corralas are buildings that represent traditional Madrid architecture. These buildings were constructed between the 17th and 19th centuries and were designed for the working class. Walking through the corralas will allow you to see what daily life was like in ancient times, as it unfolded between inner courtyards, hanging laundry, and neighbors chatting from their balconies.
Here’s a list of the corralas in Madrid that you must visit:
Corrala de Sombrerete (Lavapiés). Located on Calle Sombrerete, it is one of the oldest and most emblematic corralas in Madrid. Built in the 17th century, it maintains its original structure and has been declared a Cultural Heritage Site. It is a perfect example of communal living from that era.
Corrala de Calle Tribulete (Lavapiés). Also in Lavapiés, this corrala is very close to the Mercado de San Fernando. Although it has been remodeled, it preserves the charm of the balconies and the traditional layout.
Corrala de Calle Madera (Malasaña). In the heart of Malasaña, this corrala is one of the best-preserved in central Madrid. Currently, it is private property, but its exterior still reflects the essence of popular Madrid architecture.
Corralas on Calle Mesón de Paredes (Embajadores). This street houses several corralas that still retain their traditional design. Walking here is like traveling back in time, with facades reflecting centuries of history.
Corrala de Calle San Mateo (Justicia). This corrala stands out for its lively inner courtyard. Although some of the homes have been modernized, the traditional essence remains alive.
Corralas near Rastro and Lavapiés. Many of the streets surrounding Rastro and Lavapiés are full of small corralas that, although sometimes not visible from the outside, hide inner courtyards full of history. Some of the most notable are located on Calle Embajadores, Calle Rodas, and Calle Mira el Sol.
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As you can see, the capital has much more to offer than its traditional tourist circuit. Visit these spots, and you’ll get to know a hidden yet fascinating side of Madrid 😉