Rayo Vallecano stadium, the history of the Siete Tetas park, and Argentine empanadas

Urban legends can often cause intrigue and fascination. However, they can also provoke rejection and, above all, a great deal of prejudice.

A walk through Vallecas debunks any phrases like “I wouldn't go there” or “I wouldn't get off at Puente de Vallecas station.”

It may not have the brilliance of Madrid 's classic bastions, but the Puente de Vallecas district—better known simply as Vallecas—has its own mark and is certainly worth a visit.

The best option to explore this area located south of the Almendra Central (part of Madrid within the M-30 ring road) is to take metro line 1 on Gran Vía .

The stop to get off could be Puente de Vallecas (entrance to the district), but in this case , interest in football is more important (when not?), and the option to get off at Portazgo station wins the underground match.

As you leave via Avenida de la Albufera - the main artery - the first thing that appears are the stands of the Vallecas Stadium, home of Rayo Vallecano , a team in the first division of the Spanish football league, which always puts up a fight despite its small budget.

Until recently, visitors could visit without a reservation, but the new management has become stricter, and it's no longer easy to get into this small venue, which seats less than 15,000 spectators . Its structure bears some resemblance to the Diego Armando Maradona stadium, owned by Argentinos Juniors, in the Buenos Aires neighborhood of La Paternal.

The neighborhood seems to have a slow, quiet rhythm, but with plenty to offer . It's far from the notorious place that Madrid residents themselves might claim. The area surrounding Rayo stadium confirms the good vibe here.

Along Albufera Avenue, you'll find typical bars and cafes like Mesón Moreno , a few shops, and even a Sabores Express restaurant specializing in Argentine empanadas . You'll also see the Granier bakery , which has several branches in the Spanish capital.

The avenue has a good, but not overwhelming, flow of traffic. The cleanliness, tranquility, and a few clothes hanging from the monoblock-style buildings , adapted to modernity, are notable. Everything is very tidy.

Along Arroyo del Olivar Street, which borders the Casa del Rayo, is a lovely park called Juan José García Espartero , ideal for families who want to stroll with their children. This green space is one of the many found in these latitudes of Madrid.

There are virtually no tourists in this area. Even the locals are surprised by a visit from outside. However, when it comes to recommending a place, everyone recommends the Parque de las Siete Tetas, the district's main attraction.

Such a peculiar name, besides generating intrigue, invites a stroll. This way, the walk along Albufera Avenue is left behind as we head north along Cantalapiedra Street .

Along this street, you'll see some well-known sports stores , such as Decathlon Vallecas, and at the intersection with Risco de Peloche, you'll come across the modern Portazgo Cultural Center and Library . Various musical performances are often held here, and it's another meeting place.

One more block along Cantalapiedra leads to José de Paulete Street, where the very large Cerro del Tío Pío Park , better known as Las Siete Tetas, begins.

Why this striking name? Because there, among perfectly designed paths lined with traditional lanterns, seven mounds were artificially created to replace an old area of ​​shabby houses. In those early days, Pío Felipe Fernández was a very popular and beloved figure in the neighborhood. For this reason, the official name is Cerro del Tío Pío.

Upon reaching the highest point—there are various panoramic views—the climb wasn't in vain, because you can truly see Madrid from above . Some arrive running, others jogging, and others strolling with their strollers. Peace reigns, and of course, eager to take thousands of photos.

The descent from the Parque de las Siete Tetas can include a stop at the Numancia Market , a market with bars and restaurants where you can indulge in some classic tapas.

Back on Avenida de la Albufera, heading east, the metro station that follows Portazgo is called Buenos Aires , which in turn meets Avenida de Buenos Aires.

Through this porteño air in Spanish lands, you can walk uphill to another park, in this case, the Azorín , of great magnitude and beauty due to the aesthetic design of its paths, its poplars, cedars and cypresses and the large pond at the top.

The gates of the Vallecas Stadium still bear flyers advertising the 22nd Madrid Anarchist Book Fair. The empanadas at Sabores Express taste like anything in Argentina. Albufera Avenue gives way to a peaceful sunset. The return to the center of Madrid is finally via Puente de Vallecas, a scene similar to that of Rivadavia Avenue and General Paz Avenue, but not as crowded as in the Argentine capital.

Dangers? None, or maybe yes. But life is risk, and while certain warnings shouldn't be underestimated, the explorer's journey never stops.