Casa de la Carnicería

Beneath the watchful gaze of angular towers, stands the Casa de la Carnicería. It proudly claims its spot on the southern edge of Plaza Mayor. This four-story building, crowned with a penthouse, whispers tales of Madrid’s vibrant past. Its arcaded ground floor offers a welcoming embrace to those who seek its stories. The Casa de la Carnicería wasn’t always a silent observer of city life. It played a vital role. Its name, meaning “House of the Butcher,” reveals its original purpose. After the first fire ravaged Plaza Mayor in 1631, the Casa de la Carnicería rose from the ashes. It mirrored the architectural style of its neighbor, Casa de la Panadería, creating a harmonious balance on the square. The Casa de la Carnicería initially served as the central hub for the city’s meat supply. Imagine the bustling activity, the sights and smells of the marketplace. From here, meat was distributed to markets throughout Madrid. Butcher’s stalls were supplied from this very building, filling the air with the savory aromas of the day’s offerings. In the late 19th century, its role shifted. It became home to the Deputy Mayor and the district emergency assembly. The building transformed from a place of commerce to one of civic duty. As the 20th century dawned, the Casa de la Carnicería embraced a new identity as the Casa Consitorial. City offices filled its rooms, and the building pulsed with the rhythm of administrative tasks. Today, the Casa de la Carnicería continues to evolve. It now houses the Pestana Plaza Mayor, a luxurious four-star hotel. Its 89 rooms offer modern comforts, some even boasting views of the bustling square below. Within its walls, history and hospitality intertwine. A rooftop pool offers guests a unique vantage point. They can soak in the panoramic views of Madrid while reflecting on the building’s storied past. The Casa de la Carnicería stands as a testament to Madrid’s resilience. It has witnessed fires, served various purposes, and adapted to the changing times. Its story, etched in its stones and whispered through its corridors, invites you to delve into the rich tapestry of Madrid’s past.