DISCOVERING LA LATINA
[MADRID]
La Latina is an old and beautiful section of central Madrid that is often overlooked by foreign visitors. It is here, however, in the narrow, winding streets between the Plaza Mayor and the Puerta de Toledo, where one may have the best opportunity to experience the authentic feel of old Madrid. Now home to thriving immigrant communities from Africa, Asia, Central and South America, the Middle East, and beyond, the neighbourhood has restaurants and cafes offering a range of authentic world cuisines. But it is traditional Spanish tapas that make perhaps the perfect complement to a day of wandering through historic La Latina, taking in the lovely plazas, churches, and other local sights that date back to the 18th century and beyond.
Among the attractions in La Latina is the Basílica de San Francisco el Grande, one of Madrid’s largest basilicas and a wonderful example of 18th-century classical design. (Its 33-meter dome, adorned with intricate frescoes, is in fact one of the largest in the world.) Beyond its initial aesthetics and historical appeal, however, the church houses a large collection of paintings—and some sculpture, as well—in its multiple chapels. Look for works by Francisco de Goya, Alonso Cano and Francisco de Zurbarán, among others.
La Latina and neighbouring Lavapíes were once home to the working classes of Madrid—citizens who earned their keep in factories long since demolished. La Corrala is a lone survivor from the era of tenements, dating to 1790. Its long balconies overlook a courtyard where tenants gathered for socializing and to get water from a shared well. It remains a residence to this day, and come summertime, outdoor performances are often hosted in its plaza.
The Museo San Isidro is a tribute to Madrid’s patron saint, located in a former palace that is said to be the house of Saint Isidro’s masters. The museum focuses on the history of Madrid, though a portion is dedicated exclusively to the life of Saint Isidro, of his wife, Santa María, and to the many legends and miracles that make up their story. The museum has a charming garden and courtyard and books excellent visiting exhibits, as well.
Yet even after a full day of sightseeing and wandering in this charming neighbourhood, your visit to La Latina is not complete. To experience La Latina as the locals do, you must join them in one of the many excellent bars on Cava Baja and the streets that feed onto it to take part in the Madrileño ritual of evening drinks and tapas. One favourite such bar is El Almendro, a small tavern steeped in local flavor, where traditional Andalusian fare is served on tables made from barrels and a bell is rung at the bar to signal when an order is ready. La Burbuja Que Ríe makes another excellent stop on your tapas tour of La Latina. Here you may join a boisterous crowd sampling the cuisine of the northern region of Asturias—steamed mussels, spicy chorizos, and hearty stews.
Basílica de San Francisco el Grande
Plaza de San Francisco
+34 91 3653800
La Corrala
Corner of Calles Mesón de Paredes and Tribulete
Museo San Isidro
Plaza San Andrés, 2
+34 91 3667415
El Almendro
Calle Almendro, 13
+34 91 3654253
La Burbuja Que Ríe
Calle del ángel, 16
+34 91 3665167
No comments:
Post a Comment