Alternative Madrid: 10 places not everyone knows in Madrid (part 1)

Madrid is renowned for its famous museums, large and small streets with emblematic architecture and squares full of typical bars. However, this city goes beyond these fashionable spaces. Here are 10 places in Madrid that are the best kept secrets of the locals.

1. Debod Temple

Near Plaza España and a few minutes from our hotel, is this Egyptian temple of the second century a. d. C. During the construction of the Aswan Dam in 1968, the Egyptian government donated the temple to Spain to prevent it from being flooded. It is about 2200 years old and has a chapel dedicated to the gods Amon and Isis. You can walk on the platforms and access is free.

2. Civil War Bunkers

Near the Temple of Debod, in the same Park you will find three bunkers for machine guns that were built there during the Civil War.

3. Park El Capricho at Alameda de Osuna

In the district of Barajas, in the neighborhood of Alameda de Osuna, is the only Romantic garden in Madrid. Among its characteristic beauties are the labyrinth of bushes, the palace, the beautiful ballroom, the small chapel, the streams and ponds. It is one of the most beautiful parks in Madrid and is only open on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 to 18:30h.

4. The chapel of San Antonio de la Florida

Also known as the Real Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida, it is the only one of the three chapels in the outskirts of Madrid dedicated to San Antonio of Padova. Located in the district of Moncloa-Aravaca, it was catalogued as a historical-artistic monument in 1905. The chapel is surprising because of the great pictorial ensemble that Goya painted at the end of the 18th century.  Admission is free from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

5. Cerro del Tío Pío Park

Popularly known as the “park of the seven breasts” because of the shape of its hills. Located in the neighborhood of Numancia, it is one of the best places in the city to see the sunset and a unique view of all of Madrid from any of its hills. It is an area frequented by photographers and film directors due to its beauty.

Categories: Guías Madrid, Ocio en Madrid