La Latina district

La Latina is one of the most traditional districts in Madrid. It is located in the centre and its streets, of medieval origin, revolve around Plaza de la Cebada and Plaza de La Paja squares.

The streets of this neighborhood reflect the traditional style of Madrid. The place is very popular with Madrid residents due to its numerous bars, pubs and traditional taverns, full of charm in streets such as Cava Baja, Cava Alta or the Plaza de la Cebada and Plaza de la Paja squares. Even though it is busy any time of year, evenings and weekends are when the district is busiest. In addition, every Sunday, the surrounding streets host the famous Rastro de Madrid, a popular outdoor street market.Another perfect time to visit the district is during the celebration of the Virgen de La Paloma festivities. They are held on 15 August and are one of the most traditional in Madrid. During these festivities, the streets are packed with all sorts of events, a popular festival is organised and many Madrid residents dress in their typical costumes (chulapos and chulapas).Also of interest in La Latina are the Royal Basilica of San Francisco el Grande or the Las Vistillas park, the perfect place to enjoy sunset with the Cathedral of Santa María la Real de la Almudena in the background.This district was the first urban area of ​​Madrid in the Middle Ages and, even today, some vestiges of the wall that surrounded it can be seen. In its day, it was an area mainly occupied by craftsmen and day laborers. Therefore, both the Plaza de la Cebada and the Plaza de la Paja squares were important points for the agricultural and forage markets, respectively.