Intriguing Madrid
Madrid is located at the middle of the Iberian Peninsula which allows it good communication with other Spanish cities. As the capital of Spain, it is the administrative center as well as the residence of the Royal family of Spain.
Its 3 million residents make Madrid the largest city in Spain set in a metropolitan environment. There are diverse cultures in this city aside from its native “madrileños” and Latin Americans who have settled in Madrid, making it their second home.
Madrid is a lively city by day or by night, with active business happenings and a bustling nightlife. This city was formerly called Mayrit; it was established at the end of 9th century by the emir Muhammad. Madrid was raised to fame when the Arab occupied the Iberian Peninsula.
The wonderful blend of cultures came about when Madrid was frequently tussled between the Spanish Christians and the Arab Muslims, which still characterizes Madrid today.
In 1083, King Alfonso established the current location of Madrid, right in the centre of this beautiful land, Spain and removed all Muslim symbols and thus, its related cultural heritage.
Madrid holds a vast and colorful array of history which forms its beauty over the centuries. For example, the Main Square known as Plaza Mayor was set up in the 13th century by John II. King Enrique III had El Pardo Palace built as a royal residence for his visits. As the city expanded, the Spanish Court was moved to Madrid from Toledo in 1561. Although in 1601, it was moved again to Valladolid, the Spanish Court seat finally returned to Madrid in 1606.
Madrid underwent a bloody 19th century when the French occupation upheaval came about on May 2, 1808 with the Spanish war of Independence. The 1978 Spanish Constitution declared Madrid as the capital of Spain with the first ever democratic elections held in 1979, making Enrique Tierno Galván its first mayor.
With a growing population of 3 million in just its metropolitan area, the total province boasts about 6 million by that time. Madrid was also a preferred business centre for most of Spain’s major businesses by offering varied services through their headquarters in Madrid. Madrid is famed for its conference resorts, leisure facilities, famous restaurants, shopping, dependable public transport, theatres, museums and opera.
It also boasts of a three terminal international airport “Barajas” which is the busiest airport in Spain. It caters to domestic and international flights from all over the world. Heavy traffic is a challenge to visitors in Madrid and the better option would be to catch the tube or the ‘metro’ or other public transportation, which makes traveling around Spanish cities a breeze.
Madrid offers the visitor many variety of interests be it culture, architectural, relaxation or business. Its election as European Capital of Culture in 1992 is proof of Madrid’s amazing portfolio. Although it did not win the bid to host the 2012 Olympic Games, Madrid still is a favorite tourist destination.