El Rastro market is the most famous outdoor flea market in Madrid and is located along the Plaza de Cascorro and Ribera de Curtidores, between Calle Embajadores and Ronda de Toledo, in La Latina. It is one of the tourist attractions not to be missed if you are in Madrid on Sundays or during a public holiday. There are over 1000 stores and you can find a lot of things at the flea market, from clothes, jewelry, books, paintings, toys, magazines, accessories, various old items from certain periods, souvenirs, kitchen equipment and the like.
El Rastro was originally a place where people exchanged their second-hand clothes or some items from the house, it looked like a street sale. EL Rastro was synonymous with butchery in the 16th century. Allegedly, the market was named after the trace left by the corpses of animals taken from the slaughterhouse and tanneries in the area. There are many cafes and restaurants in the area, and they are very pleasant and provide a relaxed atmosphere. A glass of wine or beer is a must, or maybe a paella, a squid sandwich in the Ribera de Curtidores and the surrounding streets.
El Rastro is not just a flea market where you will buy something, this is a place where you can get to know the culture of Madrid.
