Carabanchel has set out to become a cultural hub outside of central Madrid. Since launching its Distrito 11 project in 2024 to bring together art galleries, music venues, and spaces dedicated to design and architecture, the area has been constantly transforming.
The next step will be the renovation of Oporto Square, a strategic hub due to its connection to commerce and transportationwhich, despite its renovation in 2010, is in a state of serious disrepair.
The project will allow for the reorganization of bus routes and the transit hub, the expansion of public spaces, the planting of more trees, and the creation of new boulevards, connecting it to the district’s various cultural centers.
Improved mobility and green spaces
The new Oporto Square is part of the SURES Plan, an initiative by the Madrid City Council aimed at promoting the development of nine districts in the south and east of the city. Its objectives are to improve citizens’ quality of life, reduce the social divide, and enhance environmental conditions.
According to the city council, the project will involve an investment of 5.3 million euros between 2026 and 2027, which in the case of Carabanchel will result in more pedestrian zones, new green spaces, and more user-friendly urban materials such as granite pavers, benches, and LED lighting.
Furthermore, as explained by Carabanchel’s council president, Carlos Izquierdo, on the podcast of the Official College of Architects of Madrid (COAM) on April 9, the idea is for the square to become a central hub of the district and to be linked to its cultural character. He is confident that the changes will be beneficial for residents and states that “it will be one of the most transformative projects in Madrid.”
Bringing about change
Despite the councilman’s statements, the City Council has not yet released the plans for how the new Oporto Square will be organized. Therefore, there are still no figures on the exact amount of space that pedestrians will gain.
However, the district’s commitment to culture is very much alive thanks to the Carabanchel Art Route. This is a tour of 21 locations throughout the municipality featuring various works of urban art, including Spain’s largest mural.