Madrid Holidays & Holidays in Madrid - Spain
With it's unique blend of the ancient and modern, natural and man made architecture, a holiday in Madrid has something for every one!
From the natural beauty of the surrounding Mountain ranges and nearby sun sparkled river, to the overwhelming twin baroque towers of San Isidro and ornate Prado art collection, it becomes apparent that the gradual historical changes to this city have been done with environmental balance in mind.
After visiting one of Madrid's many cultural attractions, why not consume yourself in the markets of the Plaza Mayor, before relaxing after a hard days shopping with a traditional tapa and mojito in one of Madrid's many lavish bars. Perhaps you will choose to witness traditional flamenco dancing while you eat at a traditional restaurant. The only thing you will not like about Madrid is having to leave!
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Where Is Madrid?
Geographically speaking, Madrid is right in the core of the Iberian Peninsula of Spain, virtually encapsulated by the surrounding Somosierra, Guadarrama and Toledo Mountain Ranges, emanating fresh air to the vibrant city, which sits upon 2 mounts split by the refreshing River Manzanares. The vibrant city is home to around 3 million citizens content with the unique history and culture this modern European capital has to offer.
Madrid Local History
Madrid first achieved an historic mention in chronicles around the late tenth century – the fort that would later become the Royal Palace is already present at this time.
In 1085, the Moors, who ruled over the fort, are overthrown by King Alfonso VI, whom brings the Catholic faith to Madrid, after which La Virgen de la Almudena would become female patron saint of Madrid. King Fernando V created the first Court of Madrid in 1329. The Reconquista in 1494 saw the expulsion of the Moor and Jews from Madrid – they settle in the area known today as Morería.
In 1561, the Imperial Court is moved to Madrid by Felipe II, becoming Spain's Capital. The 18 th Century sees the development of new city gates, bridges and buildings on the site of the old Moorish Castle, which was destroyed in 1734 by fire. The 2 nd of May 1808 saw the start of the War of Independence, finally ended in 1813 when King Fernando VII takes control of the city, to the relief of the people of Madrid. Under the reign of Isabel II, Madrid develops at an incredible rate – many of the improvements are still visible today, such as the Congreso de los Diputados (Parliament) and the Canal de Isabel II. Madrid has continued to develop intuitively into the modern cosmopolitan city it is today.
Madrid Attractions
Madrid is best thought of in 3 distinctive districts: the Puerta del Sol, Madrid's centre, the Plaza Mayor, core of the Golden Age; and the glorious Plaza de Cibeles, which celebrates Madrid's extravagant architecture.
Be sure to visit the awe-inspiring neo-classical Prado to indulge in religious paintings and regal portraits by Goya, El Greco and Velázquez, as well as housing breathtaking works by Hieronymus Bosch, Titian, Rubens and noted pieces.
If you wish to continue in the artistic theme, you will be enthraled by The Thyssen, described by experts as the most important private collection of western art in the world.
Ultimately, a visit to Madrid is almost impossible without seeing the influences of the Habsburg dynasty, which dominated Madrid's history until 1700, immortalised in the Plaza Mayor. Home now to modern murials, this was where the greatest festivals and ceremonies of imperial Madrid were held, as well as bullfights and carnivals. Today's visitors can enjoy the hustle and bustle of coin and stamp collectors' markets on Sundays and, come fiesta time, listen to lively local dance bands. Frequent one of Madrid's many cafés whilst you gaze upon their lavish terraces, overshadowed by the twin baroque towers of San Isidro, directly south of the Plaza Mayor.
Madrid Shopping
From quaint market-stalls to modern boutiques, Madrid offers it all, from exquisitely painted ceramics, beautifully tailored designer clothes and antiques. Speciality is key in Madrid, with shops selling uniques products, such as olive oil, gloves or shawls. This fond and unusual presentation can be found on the streets between Puerta del Sol and the Plaza Mayor – where you'll also find traditional flamenco dolls, velvet bulls and nodding donkeys – ideal friendly pieces for gifts.
If designer clothes and upmarket antiques are your idea of a shopping holiday well spent, Salamanca will gladly service your stylish needs. Alternatively, take a wander over to the Rastro, Madrid's infamous flea market. Rich with antiques and bric-a-brac from around the world, the Rastro has become a well-known marketplace for traditional haggling.
Madrid Restaurants
A visit to Madrid's cuisine capital, Plaza Mayor, allows you the chance to bear witness to the world s oldest restaurant, the Botin Restaurant, as recognised by the Guiness Book of Records – it's service dates back to 1725, and fittingly, many of it's dishes maintain tradition. The traditional cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig) and cordero asado (roast lamb) are perfectly complimented by the warm serenade sung by musicians in old-fashioned dress, complete with knickerbockers.
Keeping with the music and cuisine theme, why not venture to the Corral de la Morería "tablao", where you can marvel in flamenco dancing whilst enjoying locally produced delicacies. The restaurant prides itself on its reputation of playing host to some of the worlds best flamenco artists, including Blanca del Rey and Lucero Tena, as well as the employment of top-grade chefs.
Madrid Cuisine
Although the issue of whether or not Madrid has a cuisine of its own or simply an amalgamation of immigrant influences has been argued over by gastronomy experts for decades, there is no doubt it is now home to some of the most titillating dining experiences in the world.
Many dishes can argue to be quintessentially Madrid, among them, the Cocido Madrileño must be mentioned; a stew consisting of a mixture of chickpeas with vegetables (cabbage, celery, carrots, turnips and potatoes) and chicken, beef and pork, all of which are turned into a plentiful meal. Callos or tripe is another typical Madrid dish, served in all types of establishment, from local eateries to established well known restaurants.
Of course, special mention should go to Madrid's sweet tradition, reflected in it's delectable desserts, from torrijas (a type of French toast), prominent through spring and the Holy Week, to the barquillos (rolled wafers) and bartolillos con crema (sweet pie with custard).
However, by far the most famous of all things sweet in Madrid is the humble tapa , savoury tidbits of a variety of dishes served as appetisers. Numerous establishments specialise in serving these tapas -hundreds of bars spring from all sides to offer you one accompanied with a glass of wine or beer.
Madrid Bars & Clubs
As temperatures rise and the nights draw out, eating and drinking outdoors become de rigueur. The Plaza Santa Ana is a popular spot, with several bars operating terrazas (outdoor seating areas) through spring and summer. If you wish to soak up the vibrant culture whilst sipping an elegant glass of wine, try the Costa Argumosa situated in bohemian and cosmopolitan Lavapiés. Or otherwise, sup on an expertly-made mojito at El Eucalipto.
Across the other side of town you will find the Plaza Dos de Mayo and its gaggle of classic bars, where you can shelter from the baking sun. Well know resorts include Viva Madrid and Los Gabrieles, with their fabulous floor-to-ceiling tiling, and wall-to-wall tourists. The Cervecería Alemana is the best-known Hemingway haunt in Madrid. Nearby you will encounter the tabernas of Los Austrias, where aproned barmen pull on silver taps. Cold beers, lemonade and the milky horchata are favoured over coffee and brandy at the literary Café Gijón or in the faded elegance of the Café Comercial.
Cosmos Tourama Holidays in Madrid & Spain
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