Exploring Historic Andalusia

About Madrid

Madrid, the capital of Spain and its largest city, is the seat of the government of Spain and the residence of the Spanish monarch. In short, Madrid is the political, economic, and cultural center of Spain. 

This city which never sleeps was built in the 16th century when Philip II, who disliked the capital Valladolid, decided to turn a remote, ancient village in Castile into a capital. Lying at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range, the Monzanares River flows through the city. Madrid is home to impressive architecture, leading international art museums, green parks, phenomenal food, and a lively nightlife. The Royal Palace Palacio Real serves as the official seat of the King of Spain. This huge palace, one of the largest Italian Baroque style palaces in Europe, is located on a spectacular cliff overlooking the Monzanares River. The palace contains thousands of art treasures, including paintings and wall murals, porcelain objects, musical instruments, and medieval weapons. There are breathtaking gardens surrounding the palace -the Sabatini Gardens to the north and the Campo del Moro Gardens at the foot of the hill on which the palace is located. Madrid’s large, Neo-Gothic style Santa Maria de la Almudena Cathedral is among the newest cathedrals in Europe, inaugurated in 1993 after over 100 years of construction. Madrid is a city with three famous museums. The Prado El, which began to be constructed in the 18th century, has a neo-classical façade and was intended to be a vast center for nature and science studies. It later became a museum with tens of thousands of works of art from the royal palaces of Spain. It has a huge collection of Spanish paintings, including works by Velázquez, Goya and El Greco; Italian paintings by foremost painters such as Botticelli, Veronese, Caravaggio; and Flemish masterpieces by Hieronymus Bosch, Bruegel, Rubens, Rembrandt, and Van Dyck. The Reina Sofia Museum is housed in a building that was used as a hospital until the 18th century. It is home to an impressive collection of 20th century works, including cubism, surrealism, and realism, and a permanent collection with works by Salvador Dali, Juan Miro, and Pablo Picasso. The highlight of the museum is Picasso's famous masterpiece from 1937, "Guernica.” Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is the third famous museum in Madrid. It began in 1920 as an exhibit of the private collection of Baron Heinrich Thyssen- Bornemisza, who was a well-known collector. It is considered to be one of the most impressive private collections in the world. The museum was sold to Spain and opened to the public in 1992. Much of Madrid’s charm lies in its many public squares, each with its own character and beautiful parks and gardens. The Puerta del Sol (Gate of the Sun) square is a focal point of the city. It was built as a half moon decorated with two fountains and the equestrian statue of Carlos III (who built most of the squares in the city). The Bear and Strawberry Tree statues are attractions, as well, and have become symbols of the city. Today, the square’s central building is used by the Autonomous Community of Madrid. The square is known for its New Year’s Eve tradition of eating twelve grapes, one for each chime at midnight. Plaza Mayor (Town Square) is in the heart of the old city. Originally used in the 15th century as the town market, it was established in the 17th century as a town square, and the 19th century equestrian sculpture of Philip III stands in the center. There are ten entrances to the square and nine gates. Plaza Mayor has historically been the scene of many events, including bullfights and soccer games, and today is the venue for the annual Christmas market. The Casa de la Panaderia, a municipal and cultural building on the north side of the plaza, has a beautiful façade and angular towers to its sides. Plaza Mayor is a thriving center of Madrid life both day and night with its cafes, restaurants, and bars. Plaza Oriente is built in the shape of a crescent with an impressive facade of the Royal Palace as its base. It is surrounded by flower beds, beautiful shrubbery, and statues of the kings of Spain. In the center, above an imposing fountain surrounded by lions, is the equestrian statue of Philip IV. In the rectangular Plaza Espania, a spacious square surrounded by trees, there is a large stone monument honoring one of Spain's greatest writers, Miguel Cervantes, and the two iconic characters, Don Quixote and Sancho Panza. The 18th century Plaza de Cibeles is one of the main squares in the city and is considered to be one of its most important symbols. The fountain in the square depicts the goddess Cybele sitting in a chariot driven by two lions. At one end of the square is the Madrid City Hall building. The Parquet del Buen Retiro is the green lung of Madrid. It was established as a royal garden with a summer palace, and its garden paths, fountains, lake, playgrounds, and cafes attract many visitors. The Casa de Campo, Madrid’s largest public park, was created in the 16th century for the royal family and nobility and became a public park in 1931. It is a popular urban park and destination for both visitors and locals, especially on the weekends. The park contains lakes as well as an amusement park and a large zoo. Madrid is also a great shopping destination with its many colorful markets. The San Miguel Market is one of the most famous in the city with a wide variety of food, wine, and tapas stalls. San Ildefonso market is a food market, which, at dark, turns into a lively entertainment area with a stunning balcony and comfortable seating. The Platea Market, which used to be a theatre, bustles with restaurants, shops, bars, and bakeries. Anton Martin Market is a food market with cafeterias, restaurants, and even a flamenco school. Last but not least, be sure to visit Calle Gran Via, the busiest thoroughfare in Madrid with cinemas, shopping malls, international chain stores, and banks. If you’re a foodie, Madrid won’t disappoint! It has its own gastronomy as well as culinary specialties from all over Spain. Madrid’s many restaurants and cafes serve the famous bean stews, roast suckling piglet, Galician octopus, and the iconic Paella.

About Toledo

The charming city of Toledo, in Central Spain, is the capital of the province of Toledo. It is a walled city located on a mountaintop above the plains of Castilla-La Mancha, surrounded on three sides by the Tajo River and lovely landscapes.

Having served as the royal court of King Charles I, Toledo is known as the “Imperial City,” and, due to the influences of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam which lived harmoniously there in the Middle Ages, it also became known as the “City of Three Cultures.” Because of its strategic location, Toledo was used as a defensive position as far back as ancient Roman times. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Toledo served as the capital of the Visigoth Kingdom until, in 712, it came under Moorish rule which lasted until the end of the 11th century. During this period, it was the home of the Mozarab community of Arabic-speaking Christians. King Alfonso VI conquered the city in 1085, turning it into an important social and political center of Castile. It was during this time that the Christian, Jewish, and Muslim cultures co-existed and blended, and, in fact, this fusion of cultures plays a large role in the city’s allure. As you tour Toledo’s Old Town, you’ll see remnants of its rich history. In fact, much has remained the same – the maze of narrow alleyways, interior courtyards, and beautiful patios – and you may feel as if you’re actually walking through history! There are monuments and architectural remains of the three cultures that lived there during medieval times, and magnificent, well-preserved Gothic and Renaissance buildings throughout the city. The Alcázar, is an ancient Moorish fortress which was built on the site of an earlier Roman fort and then renovated by the Christian monarchy. It is the most famous building in Toledo and, from its imposing hilltop location, is visible even from a distance. It served in ensuing centuries as a palace for the Spain monarchs, a military camp, and a military academy, and today it is home to the National Library of Castilla La Mancha and the Army Museum. The 13th century Toledo Cathedral is one of the most important Gothic buildings in Spain. Reflecting the city’s history, the cathedral combines many styles and is adorned with a soaring tower, magnificent stained glass windows, an impressive baroque altar, ornate columns, and a collection of masterpieces by Goya, El Greco, Raphael, and Rubens among other renowned artists. The Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes was built by the Catholic King Fernando and Queen Isabella in the 15th century. Originally planned also as their burial place, they chose the splendor of Granada instead after they conquered the city in 1492. In the cobblestoned Jewish Quarter, La Juderia, there are remnants of the thriving medieval Jewish life that existed there until the Inquisition in 1492 when the Jews were expelled from Spain. One of the historic synagogues remaining, the Sinagoga del Transito, is among the most important examples of Sephardic architecture. Today is also houses the Museo Sefardi (the Sephardic Museum) which highlights the history and culture of Spain’s Jews. The Santa Maria La Blanca is a 12th century Mudejar synagogue which had, at one time, housed at least 10 synagogues. The synagogue was converted to the Church of Santa Maria la Blanca in 1405 after the Christian re-conquest of Toledo. The pillars, arches, and columns, as well as the decorative wooden ceiling, are outstanding features, influenced by Moorish architecture. You’ll also find the Casa and Museo El Greco in the Jewish Quarter. The former home of El Greco, who spent over half his life in Toledo, was renovated in 1906 and decorated with his furnishings and art. The Museo El Greco is located in an adjoining building, and there are many works of the artist displayed there, including some of his most famous. One of El Greco’s greatest masterpieces, the Burial of the Count of Orgaz, is displayed in the 12th Iglesia (Church) de Santo Tome. Originally a mosque, the building became a church and was renovated in the 14th century in Gothic style with a Mudejar tower. The Museum of Santa Cruz is another highlight in Toledo located in the historic Old Town. The 16th century building itself is architecturally noteworthy, and its collections of art, archeology, and ethnographic are outstanding. At the center of Toledo is a lively square called Plaza de Zocodover which is lined with shops, cafes, and elegant homes adorned with many arches. Toledo is also known for its distinctive “Damasquinado” (Damascus art) which can be found in many shops in the city. The craft is made of blackened steel and is woven with gold, silver, and copper threads. Last but not least, with all that culture, you’re sure to build up an appetite. Well, Toledo is also known for its delicious cuisine which blends both Castilian and Andalusian cooking. Some of the city’s popular dishes include handmade marzipan (sweet almond candies), partridge stew, and roast suckling pig. Be sure to sample the local wine, Manchego cheese, and the locally produced olive oil!

About Cordoba

The city is located on a bend of the Guadalquivir River between the cultivated areas and cattle ranches of the Sierra de Cordoba range and the wheat fields and olive vineyards of the plains of Campania.

The Romans founded in Cordoba as a colony in 152 BC, and it became an important port city due to its strategic location. Spanish olive oil, wheat, and wine were shipped from here back to ancient Rome, and the Romans build the bridge – El Puente Romana- to cross the Guadalquivir River. Cordoba also became a significant cultural center during this period and the home of Latin writer and philosopher, Seneca, and his nephew, the poet Lucan. In the 8th century, Córdoba fell into the hands of the Muslim invaders and became the capital of the Muslim kingdom in Iberian Peninsula – the Moorish “Al Andalus.” The golden age of Córdoba was in the 10th century during the reign of Abd al-Rahman III who assumed the title “Caliph of Spain.” It was the largest city in Western Europe and boasted magnificent mosques, beautiful patios, gardens, public baths, libraries, aqueducts, and universities. During this period of economic and cultural prosperity, there was an intellectual openness and tolerance which enabled the Christian, Jewish, and Muslim communities to live together and enrich each other. The historic center of Córdoba has been declared a World Heritage Site, with the Cordoba Mosque as its masterpiece. In the course of its history, this famous structure transitioned from its beginnings as a church, to becoming a mosque, and then a cathedral. Other highlights in the historic center are the Jewish Quarter (Judería de Córdoba) with its central synagogue and winding alleyways, the ancient Roman Bridge that is, today, a beautiful promenade that overlooks the city, and the many restaurants, bars, cafes, and Flamenco clubs that line the streets.

About Seville

It is also home to great art, outstanding architecture, colorful flamenco dancing – and let’s not forget its renowned tapas! 

Seville is the fourth largest city in Spain, and it is said to have been founded 2,200 years ago. Home to over 700,000 inhabitants, the city is situated in the lower part of the Guadalajara River, which originates in the northern mountains of Andalusia and flows into the Atlantic Ocean. The city is full of beautiful churches, impressive monuments, and many charming streets and squares, many of which are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The historic Santa Cruz district is the heart of the tourist area and home to the Alcazar Palace - the fortified structure built in the 10th century by the Muslim kings of Córdoba. In the 11th century, the Muslim rulers of Seville added a palace in the western part of the Alcazar, and, in the 14th century, Pedro I added a residential palace for his wives and concubines. The Alcazar is a magnificent palace built in the Mudejar style, and one of the most beautiful in Spain. Also in Santa Cruz is the Seville Cathedral which is located where the Great Mosque stood in the 12th century. Converted to a Christian church in the mid-13th century, it is one of the largest cathedrals in the world and one of the last to be built in the Gothic style, clearly reflecting a Renaissance influence. There are two remnants of the original mosque – the iconic minaret, known as the Giralda (Bell Tower), and the Orange Patio with 66 orange trees. The historic Jewish Quarter, with its narrow streets and orange tree-lined squares is also located here, and today boast charming boutiques and shops selling crafts, ceramics, and other souvenirs. Seville is also home to green parks, and the most celebrated is Maria Luisa Park with its beautiful gardens and fountains. The park was designed for the International Exhibition in 1929, and it is adjacent to the famous Plaza Espania. Plaza de America is located in the park, as well, where the city’s magnificent archaeological museum is now housed. One of the most innovative and unique landmarks in the city is the Metropol Parasol (“the Mushrooms of Seville”), one of the largest wooden structures in the world. A modern architectural wonder, it consists of six parasols in the shape of mushrooms, and it combines an archaeological museum, a covered farmers' market, a public square, restaurants, and an elevated promenade. Alongside its rich history, Seville is a fun, bustling city with a lively nightlife, festive parades, and annual fairs – such as the Seville Fair (Feria de Abril) -that attract tourists from all over Spain. Don’t miss out on the renowned tapas – an integral part of the city’s culture, you’ll find tapas bars scattered throughout the city. With its rich history and culture, Seville is truly the place to experience authentic Spain!

About Ronda

The gorge separates the city’s 15th century “new town” from its “old town” which dates back to the previous centuries of Moorish rule. Ronda is surrounded by the Serrania de Ronda with beautiful countryside, landscapes, and charming villages. A narrow fissure, approximately 328 feet deep, crosses the city, and there are three bridges which connect the two sides of the city.

The Puente Nuevo Bridge, the newest and largest of the three bridges, is considered an engineering marvel. Its construction took approximately 40 years, during which dozens of people risked and lost their lives, and was completed in 1793. According to legend, the architect of the bridge, Martin de Aldehuela, fell to his death when he tried to cut through the bridge the year it was completed. The bridge has huge arches, and the chamber above the central arch, which had served at one time as the municipal jail, is now home to a museum telling the history of the bridge. The views from the bridge are breathtaking. Ronda is the largest of Andalusia’s white cities and, as such, is known as "The White City." Its special location and character attracted artists and writers from all over the world at the end of the 19th century, including Alexander Dumas, Ernest Hemingway (who mentioned it in his book For Whom the Bell Tolled), and Orson Welles. They even had two boulevards near the central Toros Plaza named after them. Most of Ronda’s popular sites are located in the walled old town. Its narrow alleys and streets boast magnificent Renaissance style mansions that were built after the Muslim rule and belonged to noblemen whose family symbols still appear on the front of the houses. The well-preserved 14th century Palacio de Mondragon is one of the main attractions in the old town. Built in Renaissance style, with two Modhar style towers, the mansion, its inner courtyards, and lovely gardens have been well-preserved and today serve as a municipal museum which relates the city’s history as a Roman and Muslim city. The Iglesia de Santa Maria church, located in Ronda’s Town Hall Square, was declared a national monument due to its special design and combination of styles and ornaments. It had served as a mosque during Moorish times and then turned into a Catholic church with Renaissance and baroque style features, as well as an observation deck. The Arabic inscriptions on what was part of the mosque's Mihrab are testimony to its history. Ronda is considered the birthplace of bullfighting, and its 18th century Bullring arena is one of the oldest and best preserved in Spain. It was in this arena that the laws and the modern fighting style were established, taking over from the equestrian games. Three generations of unique bullfighters from the Romero family laid the foundation for today's bullfights, especially the outstanding Pedro Romero. To honor him, a statue, Pedro the Star, was placed in the square. The local museum dedicated to bullfighting documents the history and culture of the ceremony and exhibits costumes, pictures, and traditions of fighters. Once a year, Ronda hosts the traditional Féria Goyesca, a festival in which celebrities from all over the world come dressed in costumes matching Goya's paintings. They arrive in decorated carriages and watch the famous Corridas Goyesca, considered the finest bullfight with the best matadors.

About Malaga

The charming, historic city center is characterized by narrow streets, paved alleyways, unique architecture, squares, museums, churches, and an abundance of shops, restaurants, and bars.

Founded by the Phoenicians, Malaga became a prosperous Roman colony, and, during the Muslim rule, it served as the main port of the Kingdom of Granada. Malaga has many attractions for travelers, including two fortresses, the Alcazaba fortress which is a city icon, and the Gibralfaro fortress which is perched at the top of the hill. The Roman theatre, located at the foot of the Alcazaba fortress is another highlight. After being buried for several centuries, it was excavated in the 1950’s and is the oldest monument in Malaga. The Cathedral of Malaga is one of the most impressive buildings in the city with its baroque facade, decorated altars, beautiful stained glass windows, and 275-foot tower. Calle Larissa, the main street of Málaga, is studded with luxury boutiques, and the impressive plaza at its end, Plaza de la Constituting, is a center for political and cultural events. Malaga Park, located in the center of the city, is a beautiful oasis with exotic trees, tropical plants, statues, and fountains. The botanical garden near the city is another stunning haven with ancient trees, an impressive collection of palms, aquatic plants, fruit trees, a garden of Roman sculptures, pools, and a waterfall. The city is also home to many museums, including the Museum of Glass and Crystal (Museo Viderio y Cristal) which presents a large private collection of over 3000 glass works alongside furniture and decorative art; the Car Museum with a collection of 85 vintage cars; Picasso House, where the famous painter Pablo Picasso, the pride of the city, was born. In the house, his works are displayed alongside his and his family's personal belongings, as well as works by other artists such as Marc Chagall, Juan Miro, Francis Bacon, and Max Ernst; Picasso Museum, where over 200 works of the artist are displayed - paintings, drawings, engravings, sculptures and more; Center Pompidou, a stunning colorful cube with a bold and interesting structure which is located on the beach and contains a modern and contemporary collection of works from the Center Pompidou in Paris. All this, combined with Malaga’s famous night life and tapas bars, make for a great vacation spot filled with culture, nature, history, good food, music, and a lively, unique atmosphere.

About Granada

Situated approximately 2421 feet above sea level, Granada is perched against the background of the snowy Sierra Nevada Mountains while also being close to the famous beaches of the Costa del Sol. All these features, combined with its comfortable climate, make Granada an attractive destination for tourists.

Granada was the last stronghold of the Muslims in Spain, and the huge complex of remaining palaces, fortresses, and beautiful gardens – many declared as UNESCO World Heritage Sites- are among the city’s highlights. The 13th century Alhambra, a palace and fortress complex which sits atop the hill above the city, reflects the splendor of Muslim rule in Spain, and is an unparalleled architectural gem. It is one of the most well-preserved palaces of the historic Islamic world, and it also contains remarkable examples of Spanish Renaissance architecture. The Nasrid palaces, Palacio Nazarias, built in the 14th century around the patios, are the heart of the Alhambra and great expressions of classic Moorish architecture. Arches, domes, wall murals, intricately decorated stucco walls, wooden ceilings, vividly colored tiles, and inscriptions in original Arabic calligraphy add to the grandeur of the palaces. Generalife, located on a hillside near the Alhambra palace complex, was the summer palace of the sultans of Granada. It is a villa with gardens surrounded by abundant orchards, and it includes beautiful terraced gardens, courtyards, ancient trees, and fragrant flowers. There are also narrow paths, pools, fountains, and water that flows from the melting snow on the peaks of the Sierra Nevada. At the center of the complex is the pool patio - Patio de la Acequia (Patio of the Water Channel) – which is thought to be the oldest garden in the West. Pavilions, which provide a great lookout point for the impressive Alhambra complex, stand on both ends. El Albaicin, the old Moorish quarter of Granada, is situated on a hill facing the Alhambra and offers incredible views of the surrounding area. Among the maze of narrow stone-paved alleys are the "Carmen Houses,” large walled villas with beautiful orchards and gardens. The fortifications, pools, fountains, gates, and Muslim houses are well-preserved. The construction of the grand Granada Cathedral in the center of the city was begun by Queen Isabella in the early 16th century on the site of the old mosque, and it lasted about 200 years. It was originally a Gothic building, and then became a Spanish Renaissance masterpiece. Its exterior structure is Gothic. The church’s interior combines Renaissance style with a Gothic floor plan - chapels at the side and an impressive, magnificent main chapel in the middle, a masterpiece by Siloe. The cathedral houses many ornaments and priceless treasures. The Capilla Real, the Royal Chapel of Granada, is one of the city’s most spectacular Christian buildings. Built in a magnificent Isabelline Gothic style, the Catholic kings ordered its construction in the early 16th century and requested that it be used as a mausoleum. It is the burial place of Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand among other Spanish monarchs. The chapel is decorated with symbols of the kings' heroism and of the royal power, with beautiful wrought iron bars that enclose the two chapels. The chapel also houses a collection of invaluable art and historical objects including, Isabella's scepter and crown, Fernando's sword, and paintings by Flemish, Italian and Spanish artists. Along with its rich history and culture, Granada boasts a lively night life and abundant bars, cafes, tapas bars, and restaurants which are a magnet for visitors and students.

About Madrid

Madrid, the capital of Spain and its largest city, is the seat of the government of Spain and the residence of the Spanish monarch. In short, Madrid is the political, economic, and cultural center of Spain. 

This city which never sleeps was built in the 16th century when Philip II, who disliked the capital Valladolid, decided to turn a remote, ancient village in Castile into a capital. Lying at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range, the Monzanares River flows through the city. Madrid is home to impressive architecture, leading international art museums, green parks, phenomenal food, and a lively nightlife. The Royal Palace Palacio Real serves as the official seat of the King of Spain. This huge palace, one of the largest Italian Baroque style palaces in Europe, is located on a spectacular cliff overlooking the Monzanares River. The palace contains thousands of art treasures, including paintings and wall murals, porcelain objects, musical instruments, and medieval weapons. There are breathtaking gardens surrounding the palace -the Sabatini Gardens to the north and the Campo del Moro Gardens at the foot of the hill on which the palace is located. Madrid’s large, Neo-Gothic style Santa Maria de la Almudena Cathedral is among the newest cathedrals in Europe, inaugurated in 1993 after over 100 years of construction. Madrid is a city with three famous museums. The Prado El, which began to be constructed in the 18th century, has a neo-classical façade and was intended to be a vast center for nature and science studies. It later became a museum with tens of thousands of works of art from the royal palaces of Spain. It has a huge collection of Spanish paintings, including works by Velázquez, Goya and El Greco; Italian paintings by foremost painters such as Botticelli, Veronese, Caravaggio; and Flemish masterpieces by Hieronymus Bosch, Bruegel, Rubens, Rembrandt, and Van Dyck. The Reina Sofia Museum is housed in a building that was used as a hospital until the 18th century. It is home to an impressive collection of 20th century works, including cubism, surrealism, and realism, and a permanent collection with works by Salvador Dali, Juan Miro, and Pablo Picasso. The highlight of the museum is Picasso's famous masterpiece from 1937, "Guernica.” Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is the third famous museum in Madrid. It began in 1920 as an exhibit of the private collection of Baron Heinrich Thyssen- Bornemisza, who was a well-known collector. It is considered to be one of the most impressive private collections in the world. The museum was sold to Spain and opened to the public in 1992. Much of Madrid’s charm lies in its many public squares, each with its own character and beautiful parks and gardens. The Puerta del Sol (Gate of the Sun) square is a focal point of the city. It was built as a half moon decorated with two fountains and the equestrian statue of Carlos III (who built most of the squares in the city). The Bear and Strawberry Tree statues are attractions, as well, and have become symbols of the city. Today, the square’s central building is used by the Autonomous Community of Madrid. The square is known for its New Year’s Eve tradition of eating twelve grapes, one for each chime at midnight. Plaza Mayor (Town Square) is in the heart of the old city. Originally used in the 15th century as the town market, it was established in the 17th century as a town square, and the 19th century equestrian sculpture of Philip III stands in the center. There are ten entrances to the square and nine gates. Plaza Mayor has historically been the scene of many events, including bullfights and soccer games, and today is the venue for the annual Christmas market. The Casa de la Panaderia, a municipal and cultural building on the north side of the plaza, has a beautiful façade and angular towers to its sides. Plaza Mayor is a thriving center of Madrid life both day and night with its cafes, restaurants, and bars. Plaza Oriente is built in the shape of a crescent with an impressive facade of the Royal Palace as its base. It is surrounded by flower beds, beautiful shrubbery, and statues of the kings of Spain. In the center, above an imposing fountain surrounded by lions, is the equestrian statue of Philip IV. In the rectangular Plaza Espania, a spacious square surrounded by trees, there is a large stone monument honoring one of Spain's greatest writers, Miguel Cervantes, and the two iconic characters, Don Quixote and Sancho Panza. The 18th century Plaza de Cibeles is one of the main squares in the city and is considered to be one of its most important symbols. The fountain in the square depicts the goddess Cybele sitting in a chariot driven by two lions. At one end of the square is the Madrid City Hall building. The Parquet del Buen Retiro is the green lung of Madrid. It was established as a royal garden with a summer palace, and its garden paths, fountains, lake, playgrounds, and cafes attract many visitors. The Casa de Campo, Madrid’s largest public park, was created in the 16th century for the royal family and nobility and became a public park in 1931. It is a popular urban park and destination for both visitors and locals, especially on the weekends. The park contains lakes as well as an amusement park and a large zoo. Madrid is also a great shopping destination with its many colorful markets. The San Miguel Market is one of the most famous in the city with a wide variety of food, wine, and tapas stalls. San Ildefonso market is a food market, which, at dark, turns into a lively entertainment area with a stunning balcony and comfortable seating. The Platea Market, which used to be a theatre, bustles with restaurants, shops, bars, and bakeries. Anton Martin Market is a food market with cafeterias, restaurants, and even a flamenco school. Last but not least, be sure to visit Calle Gran Via, the busiest thoroughfare in Madrid with cinemas, shopping malls, international chain stores, and banks. If you’re a foodie, Madrid won’t disappoint! It has its own gastronomy as well as culinary specialties from all over Spain. Madrid’s many restaurants and cafes serve the famous bean stews, roast suckling piglet, Galician octopus, and the iconic Paella.

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