In the face of increasingly frequent and intense heat waves, initiatives such as the climate refuge at Madrid’s Círculo de Bellas Artes (CBA) take on special importance. Once again this year, the CBA is transforming its Ballroom into an accessible space to provide shelter from the high temperatures, and it even features a “siesta zone” to promote the importance of taking a break and resting.
This refuge, located right in the heart of the capital—at 42 Alcalá Street—has become, since its first edition back in 2024, one of the premier gathering spots during Madrid’s sweltering summers.
The centerpiece of this year’s event, according to the CBA itself, is the installation “62 Landings,” designed by Recetas Urbanas: a temporary structure featuring platforms, terraces, balconies, and nooks where people can pause, and where each person can choose how to spend their time—resting, reading, or simply being.
But that’s by no means the only thing you’ll find at the refuge: at siesta time, for example, the hammocks are among the most sought-after items, but there are also armchairs, mats, and sofas.
That covers the options for rest and relaxation, but they also feature their now-traditional plant nursery, a free-access game room organized by Tranjis Games with board games, a reading corner, a workspace, a water fountain, and Wi-Fi.
An ever-changing program of activities
In addition to its permanent spaces, the CBA’s climate refuge offers a program of activities that varies from day to day. This week, for example, the following events are scheduled:
- Tuesday, July 21 (6–8 p.m.). Put a Carbon Tax on Catán. Carbon tax on Catán.
- Thursday, July 23 (4:30 p.m.). Group SiestaGroup Siesta.
- Sunday, July 26 (12 p.m.). Masnou Open Chess Tournament.
Check out the rest of the activities on the Círculo de Bellas Artes website.
Hours and admission to the CBA Climate Refuge
Admission to the climate refuge at Madrid’s Círculo de Bellas Artes is free. It will remain open until September 6, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.