4 stops · self-guided · old Madrid
From Mayrit to today\n\nMadrid is one of the few European capitals founded by Muslims. This walk follows the city's al-Andalus roots, from the surviving Arab Wall to the multicultural food of Lavapiés.\n\nAllow about half a day, ideally a morning. Comfortable shoes recommended.
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Stop 1 of 4 Sol
Muralla Árabe — Remains of the Arab Wall of Mayrit
Begin where Madrid began: the remains of the Arab Wall of Mayrit, the oldest structure in the city.
The oldest standing structure in Madrid: the 9th-century walls of the Muslim fortress-town of Mayrit.
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Stop 2 of 4 Retiro
Parque del Buen Retiro
Walk east to El Retiro to rest among the gardens before heading into the old centre.
Madrid's green heart — a UNESCO-listed royal park with a boating lake and the Crystal Palace.
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Stop 3 of 4 Retiro
Museo Nacional del Prado
Optional detour: the Prado, to see how al-Andalus and Spain's later history sit side by side.
Spain's national art museum — Velázquez, Goya and the European masters.
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Stop 4 of 4 Lavapiés Halal-friendly
Baobab — Senegalese Kitchen
End in Lavapiés with a halal lunch at Baobab — the living, multicultural Madrid that Mayrit became.
Warm, family-run Senegalese cooking in the heart of multicultural Lavapiés.