In November, Madrid once again becomes a magnet for art and music lovers. Throughout the week, locals and visitors to the capital can attend several major events for free, each promising new experiences and broader horizons.
Contemporary art and historical photographs
The Distrito 001 gallery has opened the ‘Fuego y silencio’ exhibition by artist José Manuel Ciria. Visitors are invited to discover a unique approach to abstraction: the artist experiments with materials and forms, creating intense compositions that invite reflection on the nature of painting. Some works reference his famous ‘Máscaras de la Mirada’ series, but are presented on new, unconventional surfaces. The exhibition runs until December 10, and the gallery is easily reached by metro—Goya station.
History enthusiasts won’t want to miss Casa de América, where until November 15, you can see rare photographs by Michael Mauney, taken in Chile in the early 1970s. The images capture everyday life in the country during the first months after Salvador Allende’s election. These photos were kept in the photographer’s personal archive for years and are now on public display for the first time. The exhibition is set in the García Márquez garden, with entrance from Recoletos Street.
Musical evenings for every taste
Madrid’s cultural scene has something for fans of every genre these days. On November 8, guitarist Julián Olivares will perform at Galileo Cultural Center. His concert is a personal project inspired by his family history, featuring original compositions alongside milonga, guaira, chotis, and pasodoble melodies. The spotlight will be on the guitar—both classical and flamenco styles.
That same evening, but at Paco de Lucía Center, pianist Moisés Sánchez will take the stage. His program is a journey through European jazz, blending elements of rock and classical music. An award-winning musician, Sánchez is acclaimed for his sold-out shows and prestigious nominations.
Lovers of unique musical fusions won’t want to miss Trilog’s performance at El Torito (Moratalaz district). Here, flamenco meets Indian and African influences: the bansuri flute, guitar, and percussion create an atmosphere of genuine cultural exchange. The concert takes place on November 7, starting at 19:00.
Immersion in traditions and family activities
A special program awaits families with children at Bokobo Kids Village. Kids will discover African folktales, join a traditional makeup workshop, and learn about celebrations from South Africa, Nigeria, and Equatorial Guinea. After the creative part, there will be music and interactive games for everyone. The event will be held on November 14 at La Chata municipal library, reachable by metro (Carabanchel station) or bus line 34.
The second week of November in Madrid promises to be vibrant and diverse. There’s something for everyone—from exploring contemporary art to diving into musical experiments and experiencing cultures from around the world. The main thing is not to miss the chance to discover something new without spending a single euro.
