History of Madrid
by DanielF
The first records of Madrid only date back to the period of Muslim subjugation of the Iberian Peninsula. At that time, Madrid was not but a small fortified town in the northern edge of La Mancha region. The town was so insignificant indeed that practically no reminders of that period have arrived to our days.
Everything changed when Madrid was chosen by Philip II to be the capital of his Empire, which was the largest on Earth at the time. Madrid, so far an obscure little town, suddenly became one of the most important political centres of the world.
The part of the city that developed during this time is known as the Madrid of the Austrias - the Habsburg dynasty are commonly known as the "Austrias" in Spain. This area is full of quaint narrow streets and. for many, the most atmospheric part of the city. Most of the buildings that have arrived to us from the period of the Austrias are religious buildings. Surprisingly, in a country of magnificent cathedrals, the capital had no impressive churches, as most of them were simple and small. However there are a number of important monasteries from that period. Their appearance is clearly Castilian, with austere brick facades and richly decorated interiors.
Puerta Del Sol
by Sharrie
Meet whoever you are meeting or hoping to meet ;-) at PUERTA DEL SOL: Also known as Gateway of the Sun, this is the city's most popular meeting place & there is a huge number of tourists & locals here. Although it's a famous 'square', it's shaped like a half moon. Very interesting! Checking out books, especially coffee-table books of different countries in a bookstore on PUERTA DEL SOL. Books are much cheaper here than other parts of western europe, but they are so heavy, so I only bought 2 as this is the beginning of my 14 days trip around Spain. So sad... I love those books!
Bring Camera and lots of film or be dissapointed
by bluejaxx
Bring rollable luggage if you plan to travel on the metro and make sure it is not too large because there are lots of stairs Wear comfortable shoes because there are lots of stairs and cobblestones and since Madrid is a walkable city you will be much more comfortable in sneakers If you have one bring a digital camera, if you dont bring at least 3 cameras, even if you are only going to be in Madrid for a short time. I was in Madrid for 3 days and had 2 cameras and I still felt I hadnt taken enough pictures.
Heavy Snow
by Redang
According to the title "Off The Beaten Path Tips: What most travellers miss when visiting Madrid", I've decided to add this tip because "most travellers miss this heavy snow when visiting Madrid", it's not normal.
It took place on 9 January 2.009 (Friday).
Stompin good time!
by africateach about Casa Patas
This place was unblievable! The two that were performing had so much energy that they just shook the whole place! I was lucky enough to be sitting right next to the stage and when they started stomping I started bouncing! They were so powerful! The closer she got to me the more afraid I was of getting cracked in the head with those (lovely sculptured) legs! Would have been worth it though! The band that played behind them were made up of four men that were pounding out the notes on their instruments as hard as the dancers were pounding on the stage! We ordered drinks and had two before the show started. I love how the waitress flips out when you give them a tip! It is great and they come back quicker too! Just like if you were going out for the night! Look good at all times in Madrid cause you never know who you will run into!
Dont forget to make reservations if you are going cause it gets packed! And you dont want to get stuck in the back!
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Gate leads directly to ground floor exhibit Hall
La Claraboya room
plaza Dos de Mayo
Statue of Goya, just across the street
