Spain’s Ministry of Culture has signed a four-year collaboration agreement with the Tabacalera Self-Managed Social Center (CSA), granting the group use of two buildings at the former Tabacalera complex in Madrid’s Lavapiés neighborhood. The agreement can be renewed for a further four years.
The two buildings, measuring 512 and 288 square meters, are annexed to the main structure and are being rehabilitated for use while work continues on the principal building. The ministry says they will host cultural and community activities for the neighborhood.
The spaces will be managed directly by the CSA, which includes groups such as the Madrid Tenants’ Union, Foto Free and the Lavapiés Flamenco Club, working with neighborhood associations. The ministry said the agreement restores a site for community and cultural use and public access.
The CSA announced the signing on social media, describing the agreement as recognition of a project that has been part of Lavapiés and Madrid since 2010. The group said it would return progressively, starting with areas that meet safety and accessibility requirements, while continuing talks with the ministry about making more space available.
The complex is undergoing a wider renovation to prepare it for use as a center for artistic production and residencies. The ministry formally established the Tabacalera Center for Production and Artistic Residencies in March 2025, with plans to combine its artistic role with an open presence in Lavapiés.
Sources: elDiario.es.