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The Royal Palace
The Royal Palace of Madrid is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family in Madrid. However, it is only used for state ceremonies, as the King and Queen of Spain reside in the more modest Palacio de la Zarzuela on the outskirts of Madrid.

It is located in the heart of the city, situated on the site of the old Alcazar, a medieval fortress that burned down in 1734.

Construction of the current palace began in 1738 under King Philip V, the first Bourbon king of Spain. It was completed in 1764 during the reign of his successor, King Charles III.

The palace is one of the largest in Europe by floor area, covering more than 135,000 square meters (1,450,000 square feet) and containing over 3,400 rooms. The interior is lavishly decorated with numerous works of art, including paintings by renowned artists such as Velázquez, Goya, and Caravaggio.

Almudena Cathedral
The Almudena Cathedral, or Santa María la Real de La Almudena, is a prominent landmark located adjacent to the Royal Palace in Madrid. It is the principal cathedral of the city and serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Madrid.

The history of the Almudena Cathedral dates back centuries, with initial plans for its construction dating to the late 19th century. However, due to various political and economic factors, including the Spanish Civil War, construction was repeatedly delayed.

The cathedral’s design underwent several changes over the years, reflecting different architectural styles. The exterior combines elements of Neo-Gothic, Neo-Romanesque, and Neo-Classical architecture, while the interior features a more modern aesthetic, with influences from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Plaza de Oriente (Square)
It is picturesque and one of the most prominent and beautiful squares in the city, known for its elegant architecture, majestic statues, and serene atmosphere.

The square’s name, Plaza de Oriente, translates to “Eastern Square“, as it was originally intended to honor Spain’s eastern territories during the Spanish Empire. Today, it is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike, offering stunning views of the Royal Palace and the Almudena Cathedral.

In the center of the plaza stands a large equestrian statue of King Philip IV, which was erected in the 17th century. This magnificent bronze statue captures the monarch atop his horse, surrounded by allegorical figures representing Justice and Peace.

Madrid of Austrias (Old Madrid)
The Madrid of the Austrias refers to the historic center of Madrid, which developed during the reign of the Habsburg dynasty, particularly during the 16th and 17th centuries. This period saw significant urban development and architectural growth, shaping much of the city’s current layout and character.

During the Habsburg era, Madrid transformed from a small medieval town into a thriving capital city. The Austrias neighborhood, named after the Habsburg rulers (also known as the House of Austria), encompasses the area surrounding the Plaza Mayor and stretches towards the Royal Palace.
Key features of the Madrid of the Austrias include: Plaza Mayor, Calle Mayor, San Miguel Market, Royal Palace and Convent of Las Descalzas Reales and other historic sites.

Plaza de la Villa (Square)
The Plaza de la Villa is one of the most historic and picturesque squares in Madrid located in the heart of the city’s historic center, within the Austrias neighborhood, close to the Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace.

The Plaza de la Villa is notable for its well-preserved medieval architecture, offering visitors a glimpse into Madrid’s past. The square is surrounded by three prominent buildings: Casa de la Villa, Casa de Cisneros and Casa de los Lujanes.

The Plaza de la Villa is a charming and tranquil square, offering visitors a respite from the bustling streets of Madrid. It is a popular destination for history enthusiasts and photographers, who come to admire its architectural beauty and learn about its rich historical significance.

Calle del Codo
Calle del Codo is one of the few streets in Madrid that has preserved its layout almost unchanged since medieval times. This ancient street is rather a narrow alley, always shady, which connects the Plaza de la Villa with the Plaza del Conde de Miranda.
With about 80 meters and forming an angle of almost 90°, it was baptized as the street of the Elbow by the Marquis of Grabal, in the early eighteenth century, due to its similarity to a bent arm. On the street’s plaque, an arm in medieval armor appears in that position.

Mercado San Miguel
The Mercado de San Miguel is one of the most famous and iconic markets in Madrid. Located in the heart of the city, near the Plaza Mayor, it is renowned for its stunning architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and gourmet food offerings.

The market building dates back to the early 20th century, and its iron structure with glass walls is a striking example of traditional market architecture from that period.

Mercado de San Miguel is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Madrid, whether you’re a food enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, and where the flavors of Spain come to life in one vibrant space.

Plaza Mayor
Plaza Mayor is a grand square surrounded by stunning architecture. It dates back to the 17th century and has been a focal point of the city’s social and cultural life for centuries.

The square is enclosed by elegant three-story buildings with balconies overlooking the central square. Plaza Mayor has witnessed numerous events, including royal coronations, bullfights, markets, and public executions.

Today, it’s a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike, with outdoor cafes, street performers, and bustling activity throughout the year. It’s also home to various events and festivals, making it a must-visit destination in Madrid.

Barrio de las Letras
Also known as the Literary Quarter, is a historic neighborhood in central Madrid. It is renowned for its literary and artistic heritage, as it was once home to many famous writers, poets, and artists during the Spanish Golden Age in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Located between the Puerta del Sol and the Paseo del Prado, the Barrio de las Letras is characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, charming squares, and beautiful architecture.

Many of the buildings in the neighborhood feature plaques or inscriptions honoring the famous literary figures who once resided there, including Miguel de Cervantes, Lope de Vega, and Francisco de Quevedo.

Museo del Prado
This is one of the most renowned art museums in the world and a must-visit attraction in Madrid.

The Prado Museum houses an extensive collection of European art, with a particular focus on Spanish and Italian masterpieces from the 12th to the early 20th centuries. Some of the highlights of the museum’s collection include works by renowned artists such as: Francisco Goya, Diego Velázquez, El Greco, Titian, Raphael, Bosch, Rubens, and many others.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Prado Museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, lectures, and educational programs, making it a dynamic cultural hub in Madrid.

Iglesia de San Jerónimo
Originally founded in the 15th century as a monastery, the church underwent several reconstructions and renovations over the centuries. The current building, constructed in the early 16th century, is a fine example of Spanish Gothic architecture with Renaissance elements.

The Iglesia de San Jerónimo el Real holds significant historical and cultural importance in Madrid. It has witnessed numerous events throughout the city’s history and remains a symbol of religious devotion and architectural excellence. Today, it continues to attract visitors who come to admire its beauty and learn about its rich heritage.

Parque del Retiro
The Parque del Retiro, commonly known as El Retiro, is a vast and beautiful park. Covering an area of about 125 hectares (310 acres), it is one of the largest parks in the city and serves as a popular recreational and cultural hub for both locals and tourists.

Originally belonging to the Spanish monarchy, the park was opened to the public in the late 19th century and has since become a beloved green space in Madrid. Here are some attractions within the Parque del Retiro: lakes, monuments and statues, Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace), Palacio de Velázquez (Velázquez Palace), Gardens and Walkways.
Overall, the Parque del Retiro offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, providing visitors with a peaceful oasis to enjoy nature, art, and leisure activities in the heart of Madrid.

Palacio de Cristal
The palace is characterized by its transparent façade made of glass panes set within a cast-iron framework.

Initially, the Palacio de Cristal served as a venue for horticultural exhibitions, showcasing exotic plants and flora from around the world. Its design and ample space made it ideal for displaying botanical specimens in a controlled environment. Over the years, its function has evolved to accommodate various cultural and artistic exhibitions, including contemporary art installations and temporary exhibitions.

Today, the Palacio de Cristal continues to serve as a cultural center within the Parque del Retiro. It hosts a diverse range of exhibitions, art installations, and cultural events, organized by institutions such as the Reina Sofía Museum and the City of Madrid.

Puerta de Alcalá
This monumental gate stands at the eastern entrance to the city’s historic center, near the Retiro Park and the Plaza de la Independencia.
It was commissioned by King Charles III of Spain in the late 18th century as part of his urban development plans for Madrid.

It was designed by the architect Francesco Sabatini in a neoclassical style, with construction beginning in 1774 and completed in 1778.

The gate was named after the ancient city of Alcalá de Henares, which lies to the northeast of Madrid.

Over the years, the Puerta de Alcalá has been immortalized in art, literature, and popular culture, becoming an emblematic icon of Madrid. It has been featured in numerous paintings, poems, and songs, cementing its status as one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

Plaza de Cibeles (Square)
It is located at the intersection of several prominent streets in the city center, including Paseo del Prado, Calle de Alcalá, and Paseo de Recoletos.

The centerpiece of the square is the stunning Fountain of Cibeles, which depicts the Greek goddess Cybele (Cibeles in Spanish) sitting atop a chariot drawn by lions.

The fountain was designed by architect Ventura Rodríguez in the 18th century and has become one of Madrid’s most recognizable symbols. It is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike, and it is customary for fans to celebrate victories of the city’s football club, Real Madrid, at the fountain.

Overall, Plaza de Cibeles is not only a beautiful square but also a symbol of Madrid’s rich history, culture, and civic pride. It serves as a gathering place for people from all walks of life and is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the vibrant capital city of Spain.

Puerta del Sol (Square)
Puerta del Sol is one of the most famous and bustling squares in Madrid. It is not only a major transportation hub but also a significant cultural and commercial center.

In the heart of the square, embedded in the pavement, is a small brass plaque marking the Kilometer Zero point from which all radial highways in Spain are measured. It serves as the symbolic center of the country.

One of the most iconic symbols of Madrid, this statue depicts a bear reaching up to a strawberry tree (Oso Y Madroño). It is also home to the famous clock tower of the old Royal House of the Post Office, which now serves as the headquarters of the regional government of Madrid.

The clock tower is a popular gathering spot, especially during New Year’s Eve when Spaniards traditionally eat twelve grapes, one with each stroke of the clock at midnight.