Madrid

Why Madrid?
Madrid is the capital of Spain and its largest city. It stands in the centre of the country on the river Manzanares. The history of Madrid is very vast: it seems like it has been occupied ever since pre-historic times, but there are also remains found dating back to the Visigoth era.

The modern city of Madrid started with the rule of Mohammad I, who ordered the construction of a palace; Palacio Real stands today on the same place.

Just like Barcelona, Madrid enjoys a Mediterranean climate, which makes it possible to visit throughout the whole year. Madrid is a town that impresses through its architecture.

Palacio Real is a very important sight of the city, especially because it is surrounded by al-Mudaina, a small citadel. Earlier a mosque, the citadel is now a church that honors the Virgin of Almudena. The Bourbon kings left a Baroque heritage:

The Royal Palace of Madrid and Paseo del Prado stand as proof. A second cathedral in honor of Virgin of Almudena was constructed, this time in a Gothic style. All these architectural styles have been mixed with modern constructions in such a way so as not to spoil their importance and spirit. The financial district is formed of modern buildings connected by metro or railway.

An oasis in the middle of the city
Madrid is well known for the large number of green spaces. They are like oasis in the middle of civilization. Right in the centre of Madrid stands Parque del Retiro. It has been built for Felipe IV and is now the most popular park in Madrid.

There is a huge lake in the middle of it, which once used to house battles in order to amuse the king. Casa de Campo is the largest green area in Madrid, the place where the Madrid Zoo is found.

The Faunia theme park is a big attraction for tourists: it is both a history museum and a zoo, gathering eight eco-systems with more than 1,500 animals. Some of these animals are permitted to roam freely.

Amusement
Madrid has a very active nightlife: night destinations for tourists are Bilbao, Alonso Martinez and Tribunal. Besides the nightlife, tourists can amuse themselves with a football game:

Santiago Bernabeu is the home of Real Madrid, one of the most powerful football teams in the world. The atmosphere is hot at every game played by the team and supporters say that it is a feeling which cannot be compared to anything.

As you can see, Madrid gives the tourists a huge range of activities to choose from and this makes it a great holiday destination.