This little gem tucked away in a central Madrid neighborhood with almost no tourists is worth the walk. Way off the beaten path, Real Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida stood as a chapel from 1792 to 1928. At that point, services moved next door while this interior was preserved as a museum. What is left behind is a single room housing world-class frescoes, astonishing paintings on the walls and ceiling by famed artist Francisco Goya. And this is a lot easier than seeing his masterpieces at the Prado Museum across town.
The original chapel that no longer exists was once a farm called La Florida. The second, and now former, chapel is home to paintings that are incredibly well preserved (thanks to the disallowance of photography and low lighting). It's as if you've walked into a private wing of the Prado with no crowds!
However, every June 13, unwed women flock to the building to pray for a mate, so maybe avoid that date. Don't let the distance from the main attractions and the tiny size of the structure fool you. This stop is well worth the walk! Goya was even buried here in 1828! And don't miss the Horno San Antonio bakery close by for delicious snacks! read more