Malasaña is an area of Madrid famous for its trendy alternative scene. This neighborhood is to the west of Chueca and to the east of Arguelles. Malasaña is a vibrant neighborhood full of lively bars and clubs overflowing with young people. In fact, It was the center of the movida movement in late 1970s and 1980s Madrid: The movida madrileña is referred to the explosion of creativity in fashion, theatre, movies and nightlife at that time. The real name for the barrio Malasaña is Universidad (University). The name Malasaña comes from the 17 year old girl Manuela Malasaña who once lived on the street San Andrés and was killed fighting the French in 1808.

Centred around Plaza Dos De Mayo, Malasaña is reminiscent of Camden Town in London ,the East Village in New York City or Bairro Alto in Lisbon, although the layout is quite different and the emphasis is less on shops and more on bars. Malasaña is a fairly quiet area during the day, with winding streets and 19th-century architecture. At night it's transformed into a busy nightlife spot as young and old mix in the many bars, discos and cafes. Famous bars include Tupperware, Nueva Vision, and La Via Lactea.

The central área of Malasaña is the "Plaza Dos de Mayo". This popular square was the scene of glorious historical events during the War of Independence agaist France in the early 19th century. In fact, the square is called "Dos de Mayo" in commemoration of the Madrilenian popular uprising on May 2, 1808, brutally and effectivey repressed by the French troops and which started the Spanish Independence War. There is also a painting, by Goya, that reminds us those circumstances: "Los fusilamentos del 3 de Mayo" (The Shootings of May 3rd).

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