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History & Culture |
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There has been evidence unearthed on the banks of the Manzanares River that indicates human occupation of Madrid in pre-historic times. Many of the objects have been studied and are on display at the National Archaeological Museum today. But the chronicled history of Madrid begins sometime in during the 9th century. As the Moors moved north through the Iberian peninsula Madrid seemed an ideal place for a fortress. A castle was strategically constructed to monitor the narrow mountain pass leading to the city. The fort continued to serve the Moors as an integral military outpost against Christian invaders for nearly 300 years. Many unsuccessfully attempts were made to overthrow the Muslims, but it was 1086 before Alfonso VI was able to conquer Madrid. The king, in his advance toward Toledo, ordered the city''s mosque to be ''purified'' and thus it was consecrated as a Cathedral under the patron Saint La Virgen de la Almundena.
Madrid''s geographic location, at the heart of the peninsula, made it the epicenter of the battles that ensued. Madrid was near constantly under attack, but the medieval village eventually lost the stage and receded into anonymity until the 14th century when King Fernando V assembled The Royal Court of Madrid. This begins an extended period of relative political stability and Christians domination. Madrid and the Spanish Empire flourished. Madrid would be declared capital of the Empire in 1561 and only briefly during the reign of Felipe III would that change. But this was a time of religious persecution and all people of Jewish and Muslim faith were barred from the city. The 17th century brought stabilization and trade success as many area farmers sold their wares in Madrid. This economic and political stability were a prelude to Madrid''s future success. It is during this time that many of the spectacular buildings were constructed, many of which can be toured as you travel through Madrid today.
The 18th century ushered in a Golden Age for Madrid. In 1759, Carlos III came to power and immediately began to remodel Madrid. The Royal Palace, as we know it today, was completed. The city gates of Toledo, Segovia and Alcala were constructed along with the Royal Theatre, the Natural Science Museum and the Botanical Gardens were also completed. It was a proud age in the history of Madrid. Carlos III was later considered one of the best rulers of the land.
In 1808 a popular revolt at the Puerta del Sol began the War of Independence. Madrid remained the epicenter of the political battles that plagued 18th and 19th century Spain. Today Madrid is the primary gateway to Spain. The city with so much to offer attracts travelers from around the world to see the amalgamation of cultures that have created Madrid as she stands today.
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The City of Madrid |
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Madrid, capital of Spain, has an enormous amount to offer travelers of all ages. It is a particularly diverse and enchanting place to visit. Enjoy the plethora of Madrid''s attractions, museums, events and festivals and do be sure to indulge in the delicious fare you find here. Barcelona is also a convenient starting place for your trip to Spain whether you are setting out to explore Castilla, Extremadura, Aragon or La Rioja. The city''s of Avila, Segovia, Salamanca, Toledo, Guadalajara, Teruel and Trujillo are all a car rental away from exploration.
The capital city of Madrid can be divided into 3 parts:
Old Madrid - The heart of Old Madrid lies at the Plaza Mayor and the Puerta Del Sol. This busy area draws many travelers from around the world to the city to experience the diversity and culture that Madrid offers.
Ensanche (New Madrid)- The location of the best shopping and more exclusive hotels in the city.
The third part encompasses the periphery of the city and is essentially residential area and though beautiful as most of the city remains, offers few destinations for those traveling or sightseeing in Madrid.
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Shopping |
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Barcelona may be the shopping capital of Spain, but Madrid runs a close second. If you are searching for the perfect gift for yourself or anyone else you will surely find it here in this expansive city. One of the worlds most diverse cities you will find everything from high end designers to imports from around the world as you travel the streets of Madrid. Antiques, furniture, decorative ceramics, home accessories, fashion, perfume arts and crafts can all be found here along with world-class fashion designers and department stores. Regional specialties include handcrafted leather accessories, cheese, wine and liquor to name only a few. The best shopping in Madrid is found in and around the center of Madrid. The pedestrianized area near Calles Preciados is great for goods of all sorts, as is the Calles Mayor and Plaza Mayor. For serious shoppers try the Mercado de Puerta de Toledo mall which offers a plethora of chic and trendy shops and boutiques and the good news is this mall is open on Sundays! Arts and antiques can be found on the Calle del Prado while Gran Via, the main thoroughfare in the city, hosts an array of fashionable stores and boutiques which are sure to inspire those who maintain current trends. The best shopping you will find on your travels to Madrid are the shops located in Salamanca and the surrounding streets. Shops in Madrid are generally open from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and reopening at 3:30 or 4:00 p.m. through 8:00 in the evening. As with all of Spain weekend hours are limited, and many shops will not be open on Monday morning. You will however, find many of the designers and department stores offer extended hours in the city while small locally owned and operated shops close for a lengthy ‘siesta’ during mid-day.
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Sightseeing |
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Before you head off to explore the Costa del Sol or Santiago de Campostella, be sure to view the magnificent sights in and around the city of Madrid. Simply strolling along the streets provides ample opportunity to admire period architecture, but do be sure to check out the following landmarks in Madrid, but be sure to bring your camera and a decent pair of walking shoes, you will certainly be glad you did!
Prado Museum - One of the finest collections of art in all of Europe awaits you within the marvelous 18th century building.
Royal Palace - This spectacular neo-classical palace is a living museum and grand testament to the life and times of the Bourbons!
Neptune''s Fountain - This 18th century sculpture of the Greek God, Neptune, is an imposing attraction which is sure to delight.
Alcala Gate - A prime example of neo-classical architecture at its finest.
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Food & Drink |
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Madrid, having served as the nation''s capital for centuries has become a melting pot of people, cultures and particularly culinary styles. The cuisine of Madrid infuses all types of influences from all types of cooking around the world. There are however, signature dishes which, may not have originated in Madrid, but have quickly become staples of Spanish cuisine. While traveling in Madrid be sure to sample olives from Campo Real, Asparagus from Aranjuez and Madrid''s very own extra virgin olive oil. Traditional dishes served tables round in Madrid include ''cocido'' which is a delicious meat, potato and chick pea stew and follow up with a generous helping of ''torrijas'' or bread pudding. The following eateries in the city of Madrid should not be missed!
Zalacain - Calle Alvarez de Baena, 4. The décor of this fine restaurant is as varied as the authentic Spanish dishes on its menu. For fine dining Madrid style enjoy a bottle of the many fine wines offered.
Balzac - Calle Moreto, 7. For innovative Spanish cusine, fine wine and dessert selections, look no further than Balzac. You will be glad you came, and look forward to coming back!
El Bodegon - Calle Pinar, 15. Considered to be one of the city''s best eateries, come and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, fine décor, fine quality food and an emphasis on regional wines. Cigar connoisseurs will delight at the cigar menu.
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