La Latina Walking Tour (Self Guided), Madrid

Stunning architecture and wonderful tapas make La Latina neighborhood a must-see destination while you are in Madrid. It occupies the oldest area in the capital city and features a number of beloved historical buildings.

Stare in awe at the majesty of the San Francisco el Grande Basilica with its huge dome, the largest in Spain and the third largest in Europe. Inside, look up into the cupola to admire the paintings by José Marcelo Contreras. For more religious art and architecture, visit the Cattedrale de la Almudena. It was consecrated by Pope John Paul II, the only cathedral in Spain to be consecrated by a pope.

Spend some time in Plaza de la Plaja, which was the city's main square during the Middle Ages and a major market place in the 13th and 14th centuries. Amble down the medieval thoroughfares that surround it, including Segovia and Alfonso VI. One of the reasons to come to the square is the beautiful Capilla del Obispo. If you visit any of the bars or restaurants in La Latina, you are sure to eat well on traditional Spanish fare. The area is reputed to have one of the best concentrations of tapas bars in the city. When a particular tapa dish takes your fancy, you can always order larger portions, known as raciones.