Vallecano

Vallecano is a toponym associated with Vallecas, an urban area in Madrid, Spain. The term is used to refer to the Vallecas area, which is administratively divided into two districts of the City of Madrid: Puente de Vallecas and Villa de Vallecas. The area lies to the east of central Madrid and forms part of the city’s eastern fringe. The name is also associated with Rayo Vallecano de Madrid, a professional football club founded in 1924 and based in Vallecas; its home stadium is the Campo de Fútbol de Vallecas.

Historically, Vallecas developed as a working-class neighborhood in the 20th century, expanding with large-scale housing and industrial activity to accommodate Madrid’s growing population. Today, it is a densely populated, predominantly residential area with commercial corridors, schools, parks, and cultural centers. The district is known for its multicultural communities and social diversity, as well as its urban landscape of apartment blocks and local markets.

Transport and economy: Vallecas is served by Madrid’s public transport network, including metro and bus routes that connect it with the rest of the city. The local economy is driven by retail, services, small manufacturing, and public administration.

Notable aspects: In addition to its urban character, Vallecano’s name is recognized internationally through Rayo Vallecano, the football club associated with the district, which has competed in Spain’s top leagues and maintains traditional rivalries with Madrid-based teams.