Medialab Prado

Medialab-Prado Madrid: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Visitor Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Medialab-Prado—recently rebranded as Medialab Matadero—is a pioneering cultural and innovation hub in Madrid, Spain. Renowned for its integration of art, technology, and citizen engagement, it has evolved from a modest digital art workshop in 2000 to an internationally acclaimed “citizen laboratory.” Today, it continues to drive collaborative cultural production and social innovation, inviting visitors to actively participate in workshops, labs, exhibitions, and community projects. This guide provides detailed insights into Medialab-Prado’s history, its significance in Madrid’s cultural landscape, up-to-date visitor information, and practical recommendations for an enriching experience.

(Medialab Matadero, esmadrid.com, dialnet.unirioja.es)

Introduction
Historical Overview
Visitor Information
Activities and Programs
Facilities and Accessibility
Tips for a Memorable Visit
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Summary & Recommendations
References

Historical Overview

Origins and Growth (2000–2021)

Medialab-Prado was founded in 2000 by the Madrid City Council as a digital art workshop in the Centro Cultural Conde Duque. Under the guidance of Juan Carrete Parrondo, it quickly expanded into “Medialab Madrid,” hosting training, research, and exhibitions connecting art, science, and technology (dialnet.unirioja.es). In 2007, it moved into the historic Serrería Belga building, becoming “Medialab-Prado.” The relocation enabled the center to grow into a 4,000 m² collaborative space, hosting open labs, project calls, and a diverse program of citizen science, urban innovation, and digital commons.

Medialab-Prado’s open, interdisciplinary approach to cultural production earned it international recognition, including an honorary mention from Prix Ars Electronica (2010) and the Princess Margriet Award for Culture (2016) (en.wikipedia.org). Despite institutional challenges—such as the 2014 proposal to rent its building to private interests—the center maintained its civic mission thanks to public support.

Relocation to Matadero Madrid (2021–Present)

In 2021, Medialab-Prado was relocated to Matadero Madrid, a former slaughterhouse turned cultural complex in the Legazpi district. Now known as Medialab Matadero, it continues to build on its legacy of open innovation and citizen participation, integrating into one of Madrid’s largest creative ecosystems (medialab-matadero.es). The move has broadened its reach, fostering new collaborations while maintaining its foundational values of accessibility, inclusivity, and experimentation.

Visitor Information

Location & Access

Current Address: Matadero Madrid, Plaza de Legazpi, 8 or Paseo de la Chopera, 14, 28045 Madrid, Spain
Nearest Metro: Legazpi (Lines 3, 6)
Bus: Several lines serve the area
Accessibility: Fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms (esmadrid.com)

Opening Hours

Typical Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday and Public Holidays: Closed
  Note: Some special events extend into the evening. Always verify specific schedules on the official website.

Admission & Ticketing

General Admission: Free
Workshops & Special Events: Some may require prior registration or a nominal fee; check the program in advance for details.

How to Get There

Metro: Legazpi station is a short walk away
Bus: Multiple city routes serve the Matadero Madrid area
Parking: Paid parking available nearby; public transport is recommended due to limited parking

Activities and Programs

Collaborative Labs & Open Calls

Medialab-Prado is renowned for its three-month LAB cycles, each focusing on themes like digital culture, urban sustainability, or tangible cybernetics. Open calls invite citizens, artists, researchers, and technologists to co-create projects, culminating in OpenLAB events featuring exhibitions, talks, and installations (constelaciondeloscomunes.org).

Workshops & Educational Programs

Regular workshops cater to children, families, educators, and creative professionals. Many are hands-on and emphasize collaborative learning. Some initiatives—such as CoderDojo, Wikiesfera, or Repair Café—are community-driven and encourage active participation (medialab-matadero.es).

Exhibitions & Special Events

Exhibitions at Medialab-Prado showcase the results of collaborative projects, often blending digital art and social impact. Special events, including seasonal festivals and hackathons, provide unique visitor experiences and opportunities for engagement.

Guided Tours

Guided tours are available and can be tailored to specific interests (digital art, urban innovation, etc.). Advance booking is recommended, especially for groups.

Facilities and Accessibility

Information Desk: Staffed by cultural mediators who provide orientation and connect visitors with ongoing projects (medialab-matadero.es).
Digital Facade: Iconic interactive digital art display, especially striking after dark.
Wi-Fi & Workspaces: Free Wi-Fi, open workspaces, and meeting rooms are available.
Restrooms: Accessible facilities throughout.
Food & Drink: No full-service café onsite, but vending machines and nearby cafés are available.
Family-Friendly: Many events and workshops are suitable for children and families.
Language: Most activities are in Spanish, but English support is available and some events offer translation.

Tips for a Memorable Visit

Check the Calendar: Programs and events change frequently. Review the official schedule before visiting.
Register Early: Some workshops and labs have limited capacity.
Engage Actively: Don’t hesitate to join a workshop or strike up a conversation with staff or resident artists.
Explore the Complex: Matadero Madrid hosts other cultural venues, galleries, and theaters.
Combine Your Visit: Plan a visit to nearby attractions like Madrid Río Park, the Prado Museum, or Reina Sofía.
Photography: Generally permitted in public spaces; check before photographing people or sensitive works.
Accessibility Needs: Contact staff in advance for specific accommodations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is Medialab-Prado suitable for children?
A: Yes, many programs are family-friendly and specifically designed for young visitors.

Q: Do I need a ticket for entry?
A: Admission is free, but some workshops require prior registration.

Q: Are activities available in English?
A: Many staff members speak English, and some events offer translation.

Q: Is the space accessible?
A: Yes, the venue is fully accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.

Q: Can I participate in projects during my visit?
A: Yes, many workshops and labs are open to public participation—check the event calendar for details.

Summary & Visitor Recommendations

Medialab Prado (now Medialab Matadero) is a cornerstone of Madrid’s cultural and innovation landscape. Its evolution from a digital art workshop to a global model of participatory culture has shaped the city’s creative identity. Visitors are encouraged to not only explore exhibitions but to immerse themselves in workshops, collaborative labs, and open calls, all of which exemplify the spirit of “cultura libre” (free culture) and open knowledge.

Located within the vibrant Matadero Madrid complex, the center’s accessible facilities, diverse programming, and free admission make it a must-visit for artists, tech enthusiasts, families, and curious travelers alike. Enhance your experience by consulting the official website, downloading the Audiala app for interactive guides, and following Medialab Prado’s social channels for real-time updates.