About Madrid

Madrid has a unique atmosphere due to the combination of its high altitude and the mountain breeze. At an altitude of 21,000 feet, this is Europe’s highest capital. Not only is Madrid the capital of Spain but it is also the world capital of bullfighting.

Located virtually in the center of the country, Madrid is in close proximity to Segovia in the north and Toledo in the south, two other very important cities. Also close by is Avila an historic center. King Philip 11 promoted Madrid from a provincial town to his national command post in the middle of the 16th century. Since then Madrid hasn’t stopped growing.

Whatever you do, enjoy Madrid. There are enough museums alone to keep you fully occupied for a week. Within central Madrid, you will find many squares and public places. Not least of all, Plaza de la Cibeles features a wonderful fountain and the statue of Cybele, a Greek fertility goddess. The financial area of Madrid begins here with the head offices of more than 100 banks. You will also find the Museum of Fine Arts in this area. The Gran Via is the lifeline of Madrid. It is a place full of fine hotels, restaurants, and shops besides nightclubs and theatres. The Plaza del Callao is the center of department stores and cinemas.

Madrid is famous for its bounty of Goyas, El Grecos, and other masterpieces but the city's pride in the magnificent Prado is justified. This museum is unequalled in the world with a collection numbering 7,000 pictures of which 1,500 are on display at any given time. There are 150 Goyas, 83 Rubens, 50 works by Velézquez, 40 Brueghels ,36 Titans, 32 El Grecos, and 20 Zurbaráns. Like all great museums, El Prado is best appreciated in more than one visit.

Lastly, whatever you want to buy in Spain, you are sure to find it in Madrid. It has some of the finest shops in Europe. If shopping is not your interest, then you can always find entertainment in its nightlife, fiestas, and sports. And of course, you could take in a bullfight. It has been said that Madrid is “the capital city of culture & family, energy & art, excitement , & romance. Experience Madrid and get caught up in her magic!