Spain's capital is one of Europe's most enticing
and electric cities. As sophisticated as it is welcoming,
Madrid is a cultural whirlwind that will appeal to the most
discerning art and architecture aficionado. Because it was
not founded and developed until 1561, when Phillip II made
it the capital, Madrid lacks the glamour and old-world ambiance
found in other Spanish cities such as Barcelona. However,
it makes up for it in the many museums and galleries that
showcase vast collections of art. The city is home to elaborate
and breathtaking monuments, among them the Palacio
Real and the building that houses the Prado
Museum. In addition to being one of Europe's most important
cultural destinations, it has a reputation for being a hotspot
for trendy
Quick References
Madrid Hotels Online hotel reservations and reviews
Shopping Find out where to go shopping
Restaurants Where to go for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or drinks
Attractions Info about the top tourist attractions
Madrid Tours Tours for individuals and groups
bars, nightclubs and restaurants and like
many other cosmopolitan cities, offers a pulsating nightlife
that lasts till dawn with festive locals leading the way.
Madrid is no stranger to heartache. During the Spanish Civil
War of the 1930's, many battles were fought downtown and as
a result, heavy artillery destroyed the city. After the war,
Madrid started on the path to modernization and rebuilt itself
as one Europe’s leading cities. In more recent history,
the city was struck with unbearable tragedy when bombs ripped
apart four commuter trains in one of its biggest stations,
Atocha. On the morning of March 11, 2004, a series of coordinated
terrorist bombings killed 192 and injured 2,050 as trains
were filled to capacity with commuters at the height of rush-hour.
Along with the support of the world and in true Madrileño
form, the people of Madrid bound together to cope, question
and try to overcome the worst Spanish attack in recent history.
