Where Did Cervantes Live in Madrid?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re a fan of Miguel de Cervantes, the celebrated Spanish writer who penned the iconic novel Don Quixote, you may be curious about where he lived in Madrid. Although it’s been centuries since Cervantes was alive, some of the buildings and streets associated with him are still standing today.

The Life and Times of Miguel de Cervantes

Miguel de Cervantes was born in Alcalá de Henares, a town near Madrid, in 1547. He lived a full life as a soldier, tax collector, and writer throughout Spain before settling in Madrid in 1606. During his time in the city, he wrote several plays and novels that solidified his place as one of Spain’s most beloved writers.

Calle del León

One of the most famous streets associated with Cervantes is Calle del León. This narrow street is located near the Plaza Mayor and is said to be where the author lived while he was working on Don Quixote. Although it’s unclear which building he actually lived in, there is a plaque on one of them that commemorates his presence.

Plaza de las Cortes

Another spot associated with Cervantes is Plaza de las Cortes. This square is located near the Spanish parliament building and was once home to several important literary organizations during Cervantes’ time. It’s believed that he may have visited these organizations to share his work and connect with other writers.

Calle de Atocha

Calle de Atocha is another street that has ties to Cervantes. This wide boulevard runs through the heart of Madrid and was once home to several important buildings from Cervantes’ time period. While it’s unclear if he ever actually lived on this street, it’s likely that he would have passed through it on his way to other parts of the city.

The Cervantes House Museum

If you want to learn more about Cervantes’ life in Madrid, the Cervantes House Museum is a must-visit. Located in the Barrio de las Letras, this museum is dedicated to preserving the memory of Spain’s most famous writer. The museum is housed in a building that dates back to the 1600s and is decorated with furniture and artifacts from Cervantes’ time period.

Conclusion

Miguel de Cervantes may have lived in Madrid centuries ago, but his legacy lives on in the buildings and streets that still exist today. From Calle del León to Plaza de las Cortes, there are plenty of spots around the city that are associated with this iconic writer. And if you want to dive deeper into his life and work, be sure to check out the Cervantes House Museum for an immersive experience.