Madrid city living, but with a village-like feel.
That’s what its like to live in a Madrid Colonia. That’s what its like to live in the Colonia Manzanares.
When first constructed in 1928, the Colonia went by the name “La Colonia de los Infantes” – nowadays it's better known as the Colonia Manzanares. Its strategic location within 4 km of Madrid city centre, nestled between the Manzanares river and the iconic Casa de Campo park, offer the perfect blend of city living with a village-like feel.
Colonia Manzanares is a leafy residential area with a village-like feel in the Moncloa-Aravaca neighbourhood, comprising one and two storey single-family and semi-detached homes, spread out along one-way streets.
This Madrid Colonia originally consisted of 241 single-family homes built for staff working at the Royal Palace, but as these properties began to sit vacant over time, they later became home to railway and tram workers.
The neighbourhood is less built-up than the rest of Madrid, and receives fewer passers-by given its secluded location between the Manzanares river and Casa de Campo, the largest public park in the city.
Village-like feel
There is a thriving community spirit in this neighbourhood, where every street bears testament to the role of the Colonia as a strategic frontier during the civil war. The area was heavily bombarded during the war and was later rebuilt as a residential area for families, where they could enjoy the fresh air and a laidback lifestyle.
Colonia Manzanares is one of the few places in Madrid to retain its oldest traditions, such as the festival of San Antonio, a highlight in the local calendar, where residents flock to the hermitage of San Antonio de la Florida – a chapel which has been converted into a museum – and visit the tomb of Francisco de Goya, whose ornate frescos adorn this historic monument.
The surrounding area also offers a stunning range of outdoor activities, footpaths, meeting points and hiking trails, ranging from the lush Parque del Oeste, to the sprawling greenery of Casa de Campo, and the vibrant riverside, beneath the shade of age-old poplar, acacia and maple trees.
Hidden gems
Forming a part of this Colonia will gain you access to the most unique treasure trove of hidden gems.
Cross the Puente de la Reina Victoria bridge, with panoramic views taking in the Cathedral of Santa María la Real de la Almudena; show off your green fingers at the local allotment; stop by the Club Olímpico 64, where basketball reigns supreme; take your family to a show at the Sanpol Theatre; or treat yourself to roast chicken and a crisp glass of craft cider at the Casa Mingo, a centenary restaurant housed in the former railway warehouse.
Your very own oasis of calm in the heart of the city
If you’re looking for an oasis of calm in the heart of the capital, in an exclusive residential area with a village-like feel, here at The Singular Space we’ve handpicked this spectacular designer home for you in the Colonia Manzanares.
