You want to discover Madrid differently ? So we’re taking you to the Lavapiès district to discover a little-known tourist attraction that’s well worth a visit. La Tabacalera is an alternative venue for cultural events and exhibitions.
History of Tabacalera
La Tabacalera is a former cigar factory built in 1790 at the request of King Carlos III. Its 18th-century architectural style is totally in keeping with the factories of the period.
The 4-storey, rectangular building features a main facade with windows and balconies, and 3 beautiful doors.
Originally built to make brandy, this activity soon ceased.
In the 1800s, Napoleon and his army took over the abandoned building. In those days, soldiers consumed a lot of tobacco, and there was little “legal” production suitable for consumption. It was then that the tobacco factory came to life, initially employing 800 people, and by 1890 had grown to 6,300.
For over a century, the factory was the scene of the lives and work of thousands of women.
Today, the building is a very important center for social movements, and is still the legacy of what it was thanks to the cigarette manufacturers.
As workers recruited from daughters by their own mothers and grandmothers, cigarette manufacturers showed an early social conscience and an astonishing capacity to mobilize and fight back.
Today, the Tabacalera is an alternative venue, using 10,000 m2 of the 30,000, listed as a place of cultural interest. It is self-managed by associations. The other part has been managed by the French Ministry of Culture since 2003.
What to see at La Tabacalera
La Tabacalera is a cultural venue offering a wide range of activities all year round: music, painting, sculpture, theater and dance.
Temporary exhibitions are held regularly.
If you’re an art fan, you can also visit the Prado, Sorolla or Reina Sofia museums.
What are the times and prices?
Tabacalera opening hours:
- Tuesday to Friday, 12pm to 8pm
- Saturday, Sunday and public holidays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Closed on Mondays
Closed on: December 24, 25 and 31 and January 1.
Admission is free, but a box is available for donations.
We hope you’ll take advantage of your visit to Madrid to see this unusual and cultural site.
If you are looking for a hotel in the area, here is a selection of accommodation.
Emilie
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