Carabanchel, Administrative district in southern Madrid, Spain
Carabanchel is a district in the southern part of Madrid that stretches across seven neighborhoods from the Manzanares River to the M-40 ring road. The area includes residential zones, green spaces along the river, and former industrial sites that now serve new purposes.
In 1936, a defense line during the Battle of Madrid ran through here during the civil war, remaining contested for several months. In the second half of the 20th century, the area grew through large housing projects that attracted workers and families from other regions.
The former ISO industrial zone now houses studios and workshops where artists work and develop their projects. Visitors can explore open studios on selected days and watch the creative process firsthand.
Metro Line 5 connects the district to central Madrid through several stations, including Vista Alegre and Oporto. Those wanting to explore the Manzanares River will find bike and pedestrian paths there that work well for walks and green outings.
Beneath the modern cityscape lie Roman archaeological sites that show remains from the Carpetanian period through to modern times. Archaeologists have uncovered structures here that offer insights into centuries of different settlements.
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