Madrid

Madrid was the first stop on our trip. It is the capital and largest city of Spain.  The old and new contrast here with narrow cobble stone lanes that intersect with large boulevards of high end shops. During our 2 day stay, we visited the many public plazas and parks, the famous Prado Museum of Art, and famous Madrid landmarks such as the Royal Palace and Reitro Park.

The Gran Via is an ornate and upscale shopping street located in central Madrid.  Many of these impressive buildings have large statues, sometimes precariously perching on the ledge of the roof.

When we first arrived in Madrid, we had trouble finding the street signs. We finally noticed the street names on decorative tile on the corners of the buildings. 

The Puerta del Sol is a popular square in Madrid. It is originated as one of the gates in the city wall that surrounded Madrid in the 15th century. Today is one of the busiest places in the city where street performers entertain while people relax around the many fountains.  The city's New Years countdown and celebration happens here each year. 

The Puerta del Sol is also home to the Bear and the Madroño Tree which appears on Madrid's coat of arms.  The symbol of the Bear and the Tree appears on taxis, buildings and on other city infrastructure.

Another popular landmark is Madrid's City Hall. In front of City Hall is the Fuente de la Cibeles, or the Cibeles fountain.

 

 

In Madrid, like most of Spain, eating is a social activity. For many, this means enjoying tapas while people watching in a busy plaza. Dinner doesn't start until 9pm, and midnight is the fashionable time for locals to gather for a meal. We were excited to try a traditional Paella with sangria.

 

Another local favorite can be found at a Chocolateria: Churros con chocolate- Yum!  Even more exciting, the Chocolateria San Gines is open 24 hours.

 

Another great spot in Madrid is the Plaza Mayor which is full of restaurants, shops and people. The Plaza is rectangular in shape and is surrounded by three-story residential buildings with balconies balconies facing the Plaza. Like the Puerta del Sol, the Plaza Mayor is another hot spot at night.





Some history of the Plaza: It was constructed in the early 1600s. The Plaza Mayor has been the scene of many historic events including bull fights, soccer games, and even public executions. In fact, during the Spanish Inquisition, "autos de fes" against supposed heretics and the executions of those condemned to death happened in the Plaza.

We saw many street performers during our trip, but the most memorable was fat spiderman. Check it out: he has his own figurine! Another great attraction of the Plaza Mayor.

While there are many busy streets and plazas in the city, Madrid also has a large, peaceful urban park centered around a beautiful lake called Retiro Park.  After our visit to the Prado Museum of Art, we walked through the park and explored the Crystal Palace (pictured below).