Casa de Vacas Cultural Centre is an exhibition and events venue inside Madrid’s Retiro Park, beside the lake. Its bright, open galleries host changing art shows, with paintings and sculptures to see indoors and cow-themed artworks on the building’s exterior. The former dairy is a compact stop for a quiet cultural break between walks in the park. Exhibitions are free to visit, so you can drop in when a show catches your interest.
A dairy turned cultural venue
Casa de Vacas takes its name from its first use: a place where cows were kept and freshly drawn milk was sold. The building dates to 1874. Its role changed during the 20th century, when it became an entertainment venue and later housed the Pavillón dance hall, known for its place in Madrid nightlife.
A fire damaged the building. After it was rebuilt, it became the cultural centre visitors can see today. Its history is reflected in the contrast between its former use and its present programme of exhibitions and events.
Exhibitions and events
The centre hosts temporary art exhibitions, so what is on view changes over time. Inside, the exhibition space is bright and open, with room for paintings and sculptures. Artwork also appears on the outside of the building; take a look around the exterior as you arrive.
Casa de Vacas has an exhibition hall, a 140-seat theatre and an outdoor terrace. Its cultural programme includes theatre, concerts, lectures and other events as well as art shows. Check the current programme before setting out if you have a particular exhibition or event in mind.
A stop within Retiro Park
The centre sits inside Retiro Park, beside the lake, and works well as one stop on a longer park visit. You can combine an exhibition with time at the Palacio de Cristal or the Velázquez showrooms. The exhibitions are free, making it easy to add a visit without planning around an admission charge.
Weekends can be busier, so choose a weekday for a quieter visit. The building has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and restroom.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Casa de Vacas Cultural Centre free to visit?
The art exhibitions are free to visit.
Where is Casa de Vacas Cultural Centre?
It is inside Retiro Park in Madrid, beside the lake.
What can you see at Casa de Vacas?
The centre hosts changing art exhibitions, including paintings and sculptures. Cow-themed artworks can also be seen on the building’s exterior.
What was Casa de Vacas originally used for?
Built in 1874, it was first used as a dairy where cows were kept and fresh milk was sold.
