Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a cosmopolitan city that combines the infrastructures and status as an economic, financial, administrative and service centre, with a large cultural and artistic heritage, a legacy of centuries of exciting history. Madrid has one of the most important historic centres of all the great European cities. The historic centre, also known as the “Madrid of Los Austrias” (in reference to the Hapsburg monarchs), and the spectacular Plaza Mayor square are a living example of the nascent splendour of the city in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Art and culture play a key role in Madrid’s cultural life. The capital has over 60 museums which cover every field of human knowledge. Highlights include the Prado Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and the Reina Sofía National Art Centre, dedicated to contemporary Spanish art.
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Madrid’s extensive and beautifully maintained parks and gardens –like the Retiro park, formerly the recreational estate to the Spanish monarchs, the Casa de Campo and the Juan Carlos I park– offer inhabitants and visitors the chance to enjoy the sunshine, stroll, row on their lakes or feed the squirrels, in one of the greenest capitals in Europe.
But if there is one thing that sets Madrid apart, it must be its deep and infectious passion for life that finds its outlet in the friendly and open character of its inhabitants. Concerts, exhibitions, ballets, a select theatre offer, the latest film releases, the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of the best Spanish and international gastronomy, to savour the charms of its bars and taverns… all these are just a few of the leisure options on offer in Madrid. For more information, visit here.
