Barrio de las Letras
Calle de las Huertas · 17 min walk
This district in central Madrid was the vibrant heart of Spain's literary Golden Age, where Cervantes, Quevedo, and Lope de Vega lived and wrote. The name Barrio de las Letras (Neighborhood of Letters) honors its rich literary heritage.
Look down at the pavement: many streets are inlaid with bronze plaques quoting famous works, especially along Calle Huertas. For a quick dose of history, walk to the corner of Calle Cervantes and Calle Quevedo. Best visited on a lazy afternoon, when you can explore the bookshops and the quiet plazas.