This hub of artistic and literary culture was home to great 17th century authors such as Lope de Vega, whose home is now a museum featuring artwork from the period, with a small orchard in the garden.

Nearby, the tree-lined Paseo del Prado leads to the famous Thyssen‑Bornemisza Museum, and Plaza de Santa Ana houses a huge variety of tapas bars, always bursting with activity on their sprawling terraces.

The wealth of cultural attractions in the area includes on-stage interpretations of the classics performed at the Teatro Español and Flamenco shows at local tablaos, which also serve dinner. The outdoor terraces of the cafés and bars flanking the Plaza de Santa Ana are always buzzing, and the surrounding cobbled streets are packed with bistros and boutiques.