Madrid Information
As Spain’s capital and largest city, Madrid is filled with beautiful architecture, parklands, monuments, art galleries, fine restaurants and museums – proudly displaying the best of Spanish history, culture and cuisine. Located close to the centre of the Iberian Peninsula at the very heart of the country, the entire metropolitan region (incorporating the suburban and urban areas) has a population of almost 6 million people. This fascinating city is positioned on the river Manzanares and is home to the both the Spanish monarchy, as well as the nation’s government.
Madrid is an ideal tourist destination as it preserves its traditional charm whilst offering all the conveniences of a modern city. An exploration of the old town on foot is easy and is the best way to fully enjoy the narrow cobblestone streets of the city’s medieval quarter. A great place to begin is the Puerto del Sol, the original gateway to the city, a beautiful square and home to the monument of a bear that symbolizes Madrid. From there, visitors can enjoy a short stroll along the Calle Mayor to the Plaza Mayor, Madrid’s main square. Designed in the 17th century, it has been a focal point for Madrid life for the past several hundred years and it literally buzzes with energy and activity. Still accessible on foot is the opulent Royal Palace (Palacio Real), a dazzling white building made of granite and stone. Not inhabited by the current monarch, it is mostly used for official state functions and is open to the public for tours, where visitors can view the many frescoes, sculptures and lush gardens from which there are fantastic views of the city.
A visit to Madrid is not complete without completing the Paseo del Arte (Art Walk) that links the famous ‘Golden Triangle’ of art museums. This includes: the Museo del Prado, which has over 7000 works including Goya, Ribera and Velazquez. It is widely considered to be one of the most magnificent galleries in the world and is one of the main reasons many people visit Madrid; the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza which contains a priceless collection of paintings, tapestries, carvings and sculptures; and the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia, where works by 20th century artists including Picasso, Miró, Dali and Juan Gris are beautifully displayed.
Madrid is also famous for its night life and visitors quickly discover a plethora of local bars serving up mouth-watering tapas and live music. Check out the famous Museo Chicote, where you might be lucky to spy a celebrity or at the very least you can choose from their extensive cocktail list and soak up the ambience. Don’t expect any venue to get lively until after 23:00, when most Spanish go out and do expect to be out all night! For lovers of the flamenco there are many venues offering shows. One not to be missed is at The Corral de la Moreria, the oldest flamenco restaurant in Madrid. Conveniently located in the centre of the city near the Royal Palace it showcases a troupe of renowned performers.
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