A former military barracks from the early 18th century, converted into one of Madrid's larger cultural centres and spanning an enormous courtyard complex. The Conde Duque hosts concerts, theatre, exhibitions, and festivals throughout the year; it is one of the main venues for the Veranos de la Villa programme — the city's summer arts festival — and for the Suma Flamenca festival in June.
The complex also houses the city's Historical Library, the Municipal Newspaper Archive, and a contemporary art museum. The scale of the baroque barracks building is extraordinary; the two towers on the main facade are one of the architectural signatures of Arguelles. Most events are free or low-cost. Calle del Conde Duque 11. Metro San Bernardo or Ventura Rodríguez.