Thomas Houseago’s Giant Sculptures Take Over a Secret Madrid Garden

Some stories pull you in before you even realize it. This is one of them.

Imagine walking down Calle Castelló, a quiet, elegant street in Madrid’s Salamanca district. You pass polished facades, cafés humming with conversation, and then something unexpected appears. A private garden. Closed to the public for a century. And for one season only, the gates swing open.

Inside the garden

: seven monumental sculptures by Thomas Houseago rising between the trees.

This is the kind of Madrid moment travelers dream about but rarely stumble into. Here’s the full lowdown so you don’t miss it.

What’s happening

For the first time in its 100 year history, the Banca March Garden is opening to the public. To mark the anniversary, the space will host Thomas Houseago. Sculptures. Jardín Banca March, an outdoor exhibition featuring seven massive works by the internationally known artist.

Houseago’s style is raw, oversized, and deeply human. Seeing these pieces in a lush, secluded garden instead of a museum gives the whole experience a sense of discovery.

When you can visit

The garden will be open from May 1 to October 30, 2026.

This is a limited, one season window. Once it closes, the garden returns to private life.

Where it is

Calle Castelló 75, Madrid

Neighborhood: Salamanca

Garden size: 1,600 square meters of greenery, paths, and quiet corners that feel worlds away from the city.

If you’re coming from the Puerta de Alcalá entrance of Retiro Park, the walk takes about 10 to 12 minutes and covers roughly 800 to 900 meters through elegant residential streets.

If you start at Plaza de Colón, it’s even closer. Expect 7 to 9 minutes on foot, about 600 to 700 meters, following a simple route along Goya and Castelló.

Why this matters

Madrid doesn’t often reveal its private spaces. When it does, it’s usually brief and unforgettable. This exhibition blends three things the city does best:

• Art that feels alive

• Architecture and nature in harmony

• A sense of privilege, like you’ve been let in on a secret

If you’re in Madrid this year, this is one of those “tell your friends you were there” moments.

How to get there

The garden sits in one of the most accessible parts of the city.

• Metro: Velázquez (Line 4) is the closest stop.

• Bus: Several lines run along Calle Serrano and Calle Goya.

• On foot:• From Puerta de Alcalá: 10 to 12 minutes

• From Plaza de Colón: 7 to 9 minutes

• Taxi or ride apps: Just give the driver “Calle Castelló 75.”

Once you arrive, look for the discreet entrance. The magic is on the other side.