Tablao Flamenco 1911

The world's oldest flamenco tablao—formerly known as Villa Rosa—stands on Plaza de Santa Ana, just a three-minute walk from Puerta del Sol. Nicknamed the "Cathedral of Flamenco", it’s steeped in the cultural and social history of Madrid and, over its more than 100-year history, has welcomed some of the greatest singers, dancers and guitarists of all times.

Instantly recognisable by its spectacular tiled façade, the tablao has hosted many of flamenco's greatest artists. Over the years, its been visited by such cultural icons as Ernest Hemingway and Ava Gardner, legendary bullfighter Luis Miguel Dominguín, and even members of the Spanish royal family, including King Alfonso XIII.

Its remarkable façade dates from 1927 and is entirely decorated with ceramic tiles and reliefs designed by Sevillian artist Alfonso Romero Mesa, the man behind the iconic tilework of Madrid's Las Ventas Bullring.

Inside the venue, a series of columns and pointed arches inspired by Granada's Alhambra create an Andalusian Moorish setting. The tiled panels depict scenes from daily life in Madrid, bullfighting and flamenco, and have remained intact since they were created by some of the city's finest ceramicists.

The tablao’s distinctive architecture has also made it a popular filming location, appearing in films by leading Spanish directors including Pedro Almodóvar's High Heels, Fernando Trueba's The Queen Of Spain, Manuel Gómez Pereira's Why Do They Call It Love When They Mean Sex?, and Emilio Martínez-Lázaro's Spanish Affair 2.

Visit the official website: tablaoflamenco1911.com/en/