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“hasta luego” to Seattle, anxious to call ... www.mundo-guides.com. Page 3 adrid offers all kinds of possibilities to suit all .... forbidden to use your mobile phone while driving. ... City buses are always a good way to see the city and save some.
CONTENTS

Editor´s note…

Expats´ Stories in Madrid

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Our team is open to new suggestions and comments from all readers. If you wish to contact us you can send an email to: [email protected] Mundo Guides assumes no responsibility for changes and errors in the information.

Copyright Notice

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No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, except brief extracts for the purpose of review, without written permission from the publisher and copyright owner. Chief Editor Javier Molina [email protected] Editor Pedro García Contributors Courtney Likkel (www.adelante.com) Layout & Design Javier Molina Photography Arturo Osorio Advertising Director Irene Hurtado [email protected] Administration Manager Ricardo Redondo

Last September I packed my bags and said “hasta luego” to Seattle, anxious to call Madrid my new home. Little did I know how much would become infatuated with this gorgeous city. What I love the most about Madrid is how alive it is. The vibrant streets Courtney is a Seattle native are lined with colorful buildings and filled with bustling locals. Each neighborhood has living in Madrid and working as an assistant a different personality, and it’s this English teacher. Besides captivating variation that makes the city so venturing around Europe, full of life. My favorite spot in Madrid is she likes drinking tinto de atop the Círculo de Bellas Artes, where you verano in the sunshine, can enjoy a glass of wine while admiring embarrassing herself by some of the most spectacular views of the trying to speak the local language, and attempting city. Madrid abounds with new places to to seek out the best brunch discover, as the opportunities for in Spain. exploration and enjoyment are endless. You can follow Courtney´s adventures on her blog Adelante (www.adelanteblog.com).

Arriving 2

Culture 43

Getting Around 5

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Flamenco 50 Modern Architecture 51-52

Gastronomy 53

What to Visit 14

Where to stay 59



The Royal Palace 18



Almudena Cathedral 21



Plaza Mayor 23



Puerta del Sol 24



Gran Vía Street 25



Cybele´s Square 27



Alcalá Gate 29 Retiro Park 30 Golden Triangle of Art 32 Canovas del Castillo Square 36 Spanish Parliament 38 Plaza España 39 Santiago Bernabéu Stadium 41 Las Ventas Bullring 42

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Madrid Express

Theatres 48-49

Basics 9

 Statue of the Fallen Angel (Retiro Park) page 30

Museums 44-48

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Entertainment 62 Shopping & Souvenirs 65

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Arriving

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ARRIVING

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adrid offers all kinds of possibilities to suit all budgets, from uncomfortable seats in a low-cost airline to some of the most modern high-speed trains in the world. Don´t think twice and enjoy one of the most attracting cities in Europe!

By Train www.renfe.es Spain, along with France, has one of the best High-Speed networks in Europe. The country is enjoying this modern transportation system since 1992 when the High speed Train (AVE) Madrid-Seville was inaugurated. Currently many countries (China, U.S., Germany or Russia) are studying the Spanish growth to imitate the model and develop a similar system which had been highly successful for Spain. AVE trains can reach 300km / h, becoming a serious competitor for airlines companies. In addition, AVE trains have seven passenger wagons and a bar-cafeteria. During high season, two trains can be united, multiplying the capacity. In few words: speed, punctuality and service are the three characteristics that best define these trains. Talgo 200 trains are cheaper than high speed trains (AVE), but they are also very comfortable and punctual. There are as well overnight trains with sleeping cars that connect different Spanish cities with the Spanish Capital (Tren Estrella). Madrid has two main Railway Stations: Atocha Railway Station Atocha Railway Station, one of the icons of Madrid with its magnificent iron and glass structure, has two distinct areas: the old station which was designed in the nineteenth century and now has been converted into a beautiful tropical garden that makes the wait much more pleasant to travelers. And the new part of the station, designed by Rafael Moneo, that functionally integrates trains, subway, buses and commuter trains along with Atocha Railway Station lots of shops, kiosks, cafes, etc. Unfortunately Atocha Station gained international relevance for a tragic event. On March 11, 2004 several bombs placed strategically at different commuter trains exploded killing nearly 200 people. A few hours after, radical Islamic terrorist groups claimed responsibility. The attack shocked Spain, a country used to endure the terrorist atrocities, and Atocha Station became the epicenter of global news for several weeks. Upstairs you can visit a small memorial to the victims. At the same time, in Retiro Park (page 30) was inaugurated the “Forest of Memory” in honor of the victims of this despicable act.

Atocha Train Station Address: Plaza Emperador Carlos V s/n Telephone Number: (+34) 902240202 Passengers: 88 million passengers per year Services: Elevators, Baggage Room, Cafeteria, Restaurants, Shops, Tourist Information, Parking, ATM Machines, Rent a Car. Public Transportation: Taxi, Metro , Commuter Trains (C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6, C7, C8, C10). Urban Buses (10,14,19,24, 26,32,37,54,57,102,141). Attention: Airport Express Bus connects Atocha Railway Station directly with Madrid-Barajas Airport in about 40 minutes (5€). Madrid Express

Chamartín Railway Station This Railway Station was built in 1967 and primarily serves the northern part of Spain (Barcelona, Leon, Irun, Salamanca, Valladolid, Hendaye, etc.) and France. Attention! High Speed Train MadridBarcelona departs from Atocha Station. In 1970 the Station was closed and reformed in order to adapt it to the new traveler needs: cafeterias, shops, ATM Machines, etc. Commuter trains comfortably connect Chamartin Station with downtown (Puerta del Sol and Atocha Station) and metropolitan areas. At the same time, two metro lines connect directly Chamartin Station with the city center.

Chamartin Train Station Address: Calle Agustín de Foxa, s/n Telephone Number: (+34) 902240202 Passengers: 30 million passengers per year Services: Elevators, Baggage Room, Cafeteria, Restaurants, Shops, Tourist Information, Parking, ATM Machines, Rent a Car. Public Transportation: Taxi, Metro ( ), Commuter Trains (C1, C2, C3, C4, C7, C8, C10). Urban Buses (5, T62).

By Plane Adolfo Suarez Barajas Airport Getting to the Center (MAD) is one of the world's most busiest Airports (50 TAXI: The cost of a trip from million passengers a year) and the airport to downtown over the years, has become an should never exceed 30€ important hub between (Official Fare). Official licensed Europe and South America. taxis are white with a red Despite that, Madrid-Barajas is diagonal strip and their official easy to navigate and pleasantly numbers are indicated on the efficient. The Airport is 12km front doors. away from the city center but Airport Express Bus: it well connected by metro, bus, connects the Airport with commuter trains and taxi. downtown (O'Donnell, Cibeles Barajas Airport consists of four and Atocha Station) in 40 min terminals of which three are (5€). These buses are running linked together through 24/7 every 15 minutes, plus mechanical corridors. special spaces for luggage have However, the new Terminal 4 been designed making your trip is 2 kilometers away. Anyway, to the Airport more there is a free shuttle bus comfortable. (24/7) connecting the different Metro: Line  Barajas-Nuevos terminal buildings. Ministerios (5€) The Airport, access point for The ride from Barajas to most tourists, has numerous Nuevos Ministerios takes about information desks, cafes, 15-20 minutes. Once you get restaurants, tax free shops, Nuevos Mnisterios, you can pharmacies, banks, car hire, take metro lines  and  Christian chapel, luggage (lines to reach the historical service, parking, etc. Luggage center) and commuter trains trolleys and strollers are which connect with Puerta del abundant and free for all Sol, Atocha Station and passengers. Metropolian areas. For disabled passengers and Commuter Train (C1) the elderly, Barajas Airport has The new line (C1) connects the started a service with Terminal 4 with Principe Pio individual support for physical Station (2.45 €) every 30 handicap travelers (ask at minutes information desks). Bus: Lines 200, 204, 101 The Airport's most important connect the Airport with airlines are Iberia and Air Avenida AmericaTransport Hub Europa which connect and Canillejas (1,50€). numerous European and South American capitals with Madrid. Click here and see the full list of airlines operating in Barajas.

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ARRIVING Connections to Barcelona (BCN) Madrid and Barcelona are separated by 623 km. After many steps forward and a few back, the Spanish Government and Iberia Airlines realized the need to communicate these two major economic centers to promote tourism and business. In 1974 Iberia launched the "Puente Aéreo” Barajas Airport (literally Air Bridge in Spanish) which connects the two cities every 1-2 hours with special rates if returning the same day. The flight takes about an hour and a quarter and it is advisable to purchase your ticket in advance to get better prices (more info www.iberia.es). Currently the options have multiplied thanks to the inauguration of the High Speed Train (AVE) between Madrid and Barcelona (3 hours) but its price is still excessive when compared to the plane.

Avenida America Station This station, organized vertically into different levels, forms part of a huge intermodal transport hub (Avenida America). The upper floors are intended for buses and the lower floors for metro trains. Everything is well connected with escalators and elevators. From Avenida America you can take daily buses to northern Spain, Andalusia (Granada) and Aragon (Zaragoza, Tudela, etc.).

Avenida America Bus Station Address: Avenida America 9 Telephone Number: (+34) 915624468 Services: Elevators, Baggage Room, Cafeteria, Restaurants, Shops, Parking, ATM Machines. Public Transportation: Taxi, Metro (,,,) Urban Buses (12,29,52,72,73,114,115,122,200,C1,C2). Attention! Take bus 52 to get Old Town (30-35 minutes)

By Car By Bus Traveling by bus is generally cheaper than train or plane, although competition from low cost airlines is becoming fierce due to their aggressive pricing strategies adopted over the past years. Generally Spanish bus companies have modern and comfortable airconditioned buses that will make your trip more enjoyable than years ago. One advantage of using the bus is that bus companies connect practically all the country with the capital of Spain. There are two bus stations in Madrid: Estación Sur de Autobuses Méndez Álvaro (South Madrid) It is the largest bus station in Spain and one of the busiest bus stations in Europe. Mendez Alvaro was inaugurated in 1997 and serves a large number of domestic destinations (Córdoba, Ávila, Valencia, Granada, Leon, etc.) and international destinations (Lisbon, Paris, Kiev, Bucharest, Marrakesh, etc.). Mendez Alvaro Bus Station The bus station, integrated with Méndez Álvaro Transport Hub, was designed with all modern comforts a traveler could imagine: extensive docks, cafeteria, kiosks, luggage room, Free Wi-Fi, etc. Unfortunately the station is the working place for tens of pickpockets and thieves who try to cheat and steal absent-minded tourists. Watch your belongings and stay alert. If you need a last minute purchase before the trip, there is a large Department Store (El Corte Ingles and Hipercor) right next to the Station where you can find whatever you need.

Mendez Alvaro Bus Station

There are six motorways connecting Madrid to the north, south, east and west of Spain, following a practical radial pattern. At the same time, the city is surrounded by four regional highways that allow you to reach your destination without passing through the city M40 Orbital Motorway center (M50, M45, M40 and M30). To drive in Spain you will need the International Driving Permit. If you are a citizen of the European Union, driving license from your country will suffice. Traffic laws in Spain are very restrictive compared to other European countries, besides the police carry out surprise checks quite often. The use of seat belts is mandatory both for front seats and rear seats. The fine for not wearing a seat belt is 300€. Likewise it is forbidden to use your mobile phone while driving.

Distances in kilometres from Madrid Alicante 421 Km Valencia 352 Km Barcelona 623 Km Bilbao 395 Km Valladolid 352 Km Toledo 71 Km Córdoba 400 Km Seville 538 Km Granada 434 Km Lisbon 710 Km Oporto 600 Km

Address: Calle Mendez Alvaro 83 Telephone Number: (+34) 914684200 Website: www.estacionautobusesmadrid.com/ Services: Elevators, Baggage Room, Cafeteria, Restaurants, Shops, Tourist Information, Parking, ATM Machines, Free Wi-Fi, Police. Public Transportation: Taxi, Metro (), Commuter Trains (C1, C5, C7, C10). Urban Buses (8, 102, 113, 148,152). Madrid Express

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Getting Around

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GETTING AROUND

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adrid is probably one of the cities with the best public transport network in Europe, which contributes to the development of ample green spaces and extensive parks. Generally public transport is cheap in Spain and Madrid is no an exception, especially compared to other European capitals where it is much more expensive in comparison with the cost of living.

Urban Buses Madrid bus service (www.emtmadrid.com) is really complete with over 300 bus lines which run from 06:00 to 23:30. Plus, there are 26 night bus lines departing from Cibeles Square (23:30 to 06:00). The price of a simple ticket bus is 1,50€ and is sold directly by the driver. Try to pay the exact money as bus drivers don´t accept notes for operational reasons. If you plan to take several buses we recommend you to buy a 10-trip ticket (12,20€), which can be used in Metro too. This ticket, called “Bonometro”, is sold through automatic vending machines located in every metro station and is validated when you get on the bus. At the same time there is a new bus-only ticket Airport Express Bus (10 trips-18,30€) that allows you to change the bus line within 60 minutes, saving up to 25%. Buses don’t stop automatically so put your hand out when you see yours coming. All buses are equipped with wheelchair ramps. Recently the urban buses of the Spanish capital have been equipped with free Wi-Fi, something very useful for foreign tourists. City buses are always a good way to see the city and save some money. To enjoy a short tour you can take the following lines: Line 5 (Puerta del Sol - Chamartin Station) Line 2 (Manuel Becerra - Reina Victoria) Line 27 (Embajadores - Plaza Castilla) Line C1 and C2 (circular route) There is a special bus, Airport Express, which connects the city center and Atocha Train Station with Barajas Airport (5€). These buses are running 24 hours every 15-20 minutes.

Metro Madrid can proudly say that its metro network is one of the best in the world. The figures speak for themselves: 12 metro lines, 300 stations, 293km of railways, 1700 escalators and more than 500 elevators. Metro trains run from 6:00am to 1:30am. Despite what many people may think, riding the Metro Wagon Metro in Madrid is absolutely secure. Hundreds of cameras and security guards try to ensure the safety of citizens and rarely crimes are committed inside metro stations. Anyway watch your belongings, especially the wallet, luggage, cell phone and camera which are the favorite prey by metro thieves.

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The cost of a one-way ticket depends on your final destination: up to 5 stations 1,50€, between 5-10 stations you have to add 0,10€ per each station. More than 10 Station 2€. To know the exact amount to pay you have to indicate your destination on the touch screen and the machine will calculate the exact price.If you want to save some money, there is a 10-trip ticket (12,20€). Tickets can be bought at ticket offices (most ticket attendants don't speak English) and through automatic vending machines which accept Credit Cards and are available in several languages (English, French, Italian and German). In major metro stations you will find shops, cafes and bars where you can buy a sandwich or a coffee to go. In some outlying districts there is a tram service (Metro Ligero) which was inaugurated in 2007.

Bicycle Despite the inauguration of numerous bike lanes, it is still very difficult to move around the city center by bicycle. One of the major drawbacks is the lack of awareness of citizens. Aggressive driving behaviors of “madrileños” do not help too much. Anyway something is changing in Madrid. With the intention of facilitating the mobility of people, you can go by Metro with your bike during off-peak hours: Monday to Friday (10:00-12:30 and 21:00-01:30) and Weekends (the whole day). Some companies offer bike tours, a great alternative to know the city from a different point of view (www.trixi.com). If you prefer to rent a bike and discovering Madrid by yourself (www.busvision.net).

Taxi

Taking a Taxi at the In Madrid there are 15,500 taxis running 24/7. Official Airport taxis can be identified easily in white color with a red If you take a Taxi at the airport, pay diagonal strip. The official special attention. Some number is indicated on both unscrupulous taxi drivers try to front doors. overcharge tourists. Never pay more Given the large number of than 30€ (Official Fare) for a ride taxis, finding a taxi is never a from the Airport to downtown. problem in the Spanish If you have any problem, ask for a capital: there are taxi spots receipt and don’t forget the official everywhere and you can also taxi number written on the door. hail from street at the same Then you can go to the nearest rate. Police Station and report. Available taxis have a green If your final destination is near the light on the top. If the taxi is Airport, some taxi drivers refuse the busy you will see a weak service. This refusal may lead to an yellow light. uncomfortable and unpleasant Calling a taxi is an option as situation. By law, taxi drivers are well, mention to the operator obliged to accept the service if you want to pay by credit regardless of the distance. card, as not all taxis have cardGiven this situation you can go to reading equipment. the airport Police Station. Within the city, the driver Never take pirate taxis, their prices must always turn on the are higher and can even be taximeter and the customer dangerous. only pays the amount that is shown on the taximeter. Notice that there are some extra charges in the following cases:      

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Barajas Airport Train Stations Bus Stations Madrid Showground (IFEMA or Congress Palace) Night Service (from 21:00 to 06:00) Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays

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MADRID METRO MAP

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COMMUTER TRAINS Commuter trains (Cercanías) makes life easier for millions of madrileños every day, connecting the metropolitan area with the city center. The commuter rail network has more than 80 stations and 370 km of railways, making it one of the most extensive urban rail networks in Europe. All trains are equipped with the latest traveler information systems: bilingual public address system (Spanish – English), screens showing the route, time and outside temperature, etc. Atocha Train Station, right in the city center, is the real heart that centralizes the whole commuter train network. The 9 commuter lines stop at Atocha Station. These trains are especially interesting for tourists who want to visit places like El Escorial (3.95€) where is located the majestic Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. This monastery was built by King Felipe II in 1584 and is seen by many as one of the eight wonders of the world. Commuter trains also connect Madrid with Aranjuez (3.95€), a small town declared a World Heritage Site where the Spanish Royal family spent long periods, especially during the summer. The line C -1 connects the financial district (Recoletos and Nuevos Ministerios) with Barajas Airport (T 4) (2.50€).

USEFUL INFORMATION: Opening Hours: The first commuter trains start around 05:00 and keep running until 24:00. The frequency of trains depends on each line, approximately 10-15 minutes. There are screens indicating the estimate time of arrival at each station. Where to buy tickets: Tickets can be purchased at every station (ticket vending machines). The commuter rail network is divided into seven areas and the ticket price depends on your destination. Use the vending machines as most of the staff do not speak English.

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Basics

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BASICS

W

hen someone visits a city for the first time is always important to take into account certain basic information that will help you during your stay.

Language Spain's official language is Spanish, also known as “Castellano”. Generally Spaniards don’t have a high level of English so it would be convenient if you could minimally express yourself in Spanish or have a travel dictionary with basic phrases and expressions. Young people often have a level of English a little more acceptable than middle-aged people so it will be easier communicate with them. Spanish is spoken by over 450 million people. However, the language spoken in South America is a bit different from the Spanish spoken in the Iberian Peninsula. In South America the accent is softer and more delicate and they use different words and expressions than in Spain. Despite these minor differences, both can understand each other with no problem.

Climate The climate of the Spanish capital can be defined as MediterraneanContinental, which is characterized by low humidity and wide temperature variation. Winter is cold (average temperature around 5°). Overnight frosts are common and sometimes snow makes appearance, creating traffic chaos in a city famously unprepared for snow. On the contrary, summer is really hot (average temperature 25°) and Terrace of a bar in summer very dry. On certain occasions temperature can reach 40°, something really unpleasant to those not accustomed to it. Definitely the best season to visit Madrid is autumn and spring. The temperature is quite nice and the streets, parks and bars are full of people enjoying the good weather. Some years are especially rainy during the fall, so we recommend bringing a small umbrella or a raincoat. It is better to be prepared for what may happen.

What to take to Madrid During the summer it is advisable to wear light clothing and sandals as the temperature may rise up to 40°. The thermal sensation may be even higher because of the enormous pollution. Winter is cold in Madrid so do not forget your winter gear (gloves, anorak, warm footwear and winter cap). Spring and autumn are mild, but we recommend bringing a jacket or a sweater as the mornings and evenings are cold. Madrid Express

Madrid is a great place to shop (recently the city has been awarded as the second best European city for shopping, only surpassed by London). Consider carrying a suitcase with enough space to fill it with your purchases in Madrid. The vast mayority of the hotels offer basic hygene products (shampoo, gel, soap, toothpaste, etc) which is really useful. Attention! Do not forget to photocopy your documentation and plane tickets; it could be very useful in case of theft.

Essential Information Population: 3.265.038 Local Time: Central European (Paris, Berlin, Stockholm, etc.) Official Language: Spanish Local Currency: EURO (€) Measurement System: Metric System Religion: Secular State. 70% of the population is Catholic. Dialing Code: (+34) 91 Electricity Supply: 220V Emergency Telephone Number: 112 Downtown Police Stations: Comisaría Distrito Centro (Address Calle Leganitos, 19. Tel: 915487985) Policia Municipal Distrito Centro (Address: Calle Montera, 16. Tel:915234594) Comisaría Distrito Retiro (Address: Calle Huertas, 76-78. Tel: 913221027). Taxes: 21% (Shopping) 10% (Hotels & Rest). Tourist Offices: Plaza Mayor 27 (Tel: 915881636) Atocha Station (Tel: 915284630) Plaza Colón (Tel: 913087143) Plaza de Callao (Tel: 915 88 16 36) Barajas Airport (Tel: 915881636). Official Web: www.turismomadrid.es/en/ Madrid Card: Discounts in Sights, Museums, Public Transport etc. More information www.madridcard.com/ Guided Tours: Trapsatur (Address: Calle San Bernardo 7. Tel: 951416321). OgoTours Free Walking Tour, more info visit: (www.ogotours.com). Train Station: Atocha Station (Address: Glorieta de Carlos V. Tel: 902240202) Chamartín Station (Address: Calle Agustín de Foxá s/n Tel: 913231515). Old Town Post Offices: Address: Paseo del Prado 1. Tel: nd 91523094) / Plaza de Callao 2 (inside Corte Ingés 2 Floor) Tips: Not compulsory. Bank Holidays: January 1st, January 6th, March 19th , Maundy st nd th Thursday, Good Friday , May 1 , May 2 , August 15 , October th st th th 12 , November 1 , December 6 , December 8 , December th 25 . Opening Hours: Malls & Departments Stores every day from 10:00 to 22:00. Small shops from 10:00 to 13:30/14:00 and from 16:30 /17:00 to 21:00 (Closed on Sundays). Banking Hours: Monday-Friday from 8:00/08:30 to 14:00.

Emergency Services & Pharmacies Phone number for all emergency services is 112, as in others European Union countries. Depending on the nature of your problem, you should indicate the department (English spoken): Police, Fire Department or Emergency Medical Service. SAMUR (Servicio de Asistencia Municipal de Urgencia y Rescate) is responsible for responding to medical emergencies with its ambulances and other response vehicles. La Vaguada Shopping Centre

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BASICS The ambulance must arrive at the required location within an average of eight minutes. For small medical problems the pharmacist can help without having to visit the doctor. The Pharmacies are open Monday to Saturday during business hours. Pharmacies on duty (“Farmacias de Guardia”) are posted on the door of all the pharmacies. There are several pharmacies in downtown open 24 hours. • Calle Mayor 59 • Calle Goya 89 • Calle Toledo 46 • Calle Atocha 46 • Calle Conde de Peñalver 27

Smoking & Alcohol Spain is a country with zero tolerance for smokers. Since the implementation of the latest anti-smoking law, smoking is prohibited in any public area (Restaurants, Metro Stations, Hotels, Cafes, Hospitals, etc.). The new law created a great controversy in the country among smokers and detractors. Despite that the Government approved the law and decided to apply it firmly. The sale of alcohol is prohibited to persons under 18 years old and is quite common that the shop staff asks for your ID card to verify your age. As a consequence of high alcohol prices in pubs and clubs and the low budget of young people, a new phenomenon (popularly known as “botellón”) was born. Teenagers used to buy drinks and gather in parks and small squares drinking until late at night. The concentration of young people, many of them drunk, annoyed the neighbors and complaints and quarrels were constant. This is the reason why Madrid Government recently has banned drinking alcohol in the streets.

Personal Space & Communication Skills In Spain personal space is much smaller than in other European countries, especially in northern and central Europe (Sweden, Germany, England, Austria, etc.): when two people hold a conversation in Spain, the space between them is relatively small. Do not be intimidated by that, in Spain is perfectly normal. At the same time all over southern Europe people speak in a high tone voice and express themselves using their hands even while speaking on the phone. Spain is not a exception to the rule. Usually Spaniards greet in a much more tactile manner than in other countries: men embrace and pat each other on the shoulder and women kiss each other twice on the cheeks to say hello.

Pollution Madrid is one of the European capitals with a higher level of air pollution: the high density of cars and dry climate are primarily responsible for this unfortunate phenomenon. During the last years the Government's efforts have intensified (bike lanes, parks, municipal electric vehicles, promotion of public transport, etc.) but it seem insufficient. Pollution levels are so high that from outside the city you can see a dark cloud covering the city, popularly known as "boina" (beret).

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If you have breathing problems, you can buy a facemask that filters out pollution, especially useful for bicycling.

Local Currency The official currency in Spain is EURO (€). The country adopted euro in 2001, together with its European partners. This currency is used in other 15 European countries, which means that more than 300 million people use it every day. In the coming years it is scheduled that others countries will join the Euro Zone such as Bulgaria, Romania or Poland. Previously Spaniards used the local currency, called “peseta” (pts), 1€=166,39 pts. If you talk with some local people, you will realize that many of them long for the return of the “peseta” as the arrival of the EURO meant a general increase in prices.

Credit Cards In Spain you won’t need to carry large amounts of cash as there are many Cash Points all around the city and most shops accept credit cards. The most common Credit Cards in Spain are VISA and MasterCard. The major banks give cash through these credit cards. When using your credit card in shops or restaurants employees can ask for your ID card or Passport to verify your ATM Machine identity. On occasions it is necessary to type the secret number. If you have more than one credit card not bring them all together, try to take them separately. Attention! If your Credit Card is stolen it´s necessary to cancel it as soon as possible by calling VISA (900 99 11 24) MasterCard (900 97 12 31) or American Express (902 375637) and report the loss to the nearest Police Station.

Call Phones In Madrid you will find telephone boxes throughout the city without any problem. Phone cards can be purchased at newstands and small tobacco shops “Estanco”. You will find different phone cards according to prices, number of minutes, destinations, etc. Another way to make cheap call oversees is to go to a “Locutorio”. These places are very popular among inmigrants as they can make long distance phone calls more affordable than from a phone booth on the street. Plus here you can make calls using Internet and even send money. Calls from your Hotel's room are usually much Phone Booth more expensive than from a public phone. All telephone numbers in Spain have 9 digits (including area codes).

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BASICS If the phone number starts with 9 indicates that it is a landline. If it starts with 6 is a mobile phone. The phone numbers starting with 803, 806 and 807 indicate that they are much more expensive than a common call. Numbers beginning with 800 or 900 are free of charge. The telephone country code for Spain is (+34). There are different international calling rates depending on the destination of your call: European Union, other European countries, North Africa, America and Rest of World.

Postal Service The Spanish Postal Service has improved quickly in recent years, matching the Postal Service of other European countries. Post offices are open from 08:00 to 21:00 Monday to Friday, and Saturday from 09:00 to 17:00. From the post offices you can send registered letters, telegrams and postcards. There are also mailboxes through the city which are yellow. The rates for shipping depend on destination: there is a different price for European Union countries, Rest of Europe, America and Rest of World. To send or receive money you should use an urgent Money Order (“Giro Telegrafico urgente” in Spanish). Packages must be properly wrapped and sealed to be sent. The price depends on weight and destination.

Newspapers: El Pais and El Mundo are the two most widely read newspapers in Spain. El Pais, one of the most credible newspapers in Europe, is known for its liberal thought and information rigor. On the contrary El Mundo defends a more classical and less liberal editorial content. As and Marca are the most popular sport newspapers in Spain. Everyday football fans can read rumors and news about the Spanish and European teams. In recent years the city, as many other capitals in Europe, has been inundated by free newspapers which are distributed early in the morning near crowded places. Some of them are 20 Minutos, Qué or Metro. In any press shop, newsstand or hotel you will find the major international newspapers and publications (Financial Times, The New York Times, Le Monde, Le Figaro, Bild, The Economist, etc.).

Visa The Schengen Treaty, signed by most member states of the European Union (including Spain), entered into force in 1995. From st 1 January 1995 the Schengen citizens can travel freely without completing any special formalities. However, thanks to special agreements of cooperation, the citizens of the following countries can also visit Spain without a visa (maximum stay three months): Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, USA, Guatemala, Honduras, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, Nicaragua, Norway, New Zealand, Panama, Paraguay, , Republic of Korea, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, , Uruguay, Venezuela, special administrative regions of the Republic of China ( Hong Kong and Macao). If you are not from any of these countries you will need to apply for a tourist visa through the Spanish Embassy in your country. More information: www.maec.es/en/

Opening Hours

Bad Experiences

The opening hours in Spain are really longer compared to other European countries. Generally small businesses open their doors at 9:30/10:00 until 13:30/14:00 when they take a break for lunch. Then they return to work at 16:30/17:00 and stay open until 20:30/21:00. On Saturday afternoon and Sunday the immense majority of small shops close. This Spanish habit is not practiced by large shopping centers which are open Monday to Sunday from 10:00 to 22:00 without interruption. With regard to restaurants, they begin lunch service from 13:00 until 15:30/16:00. Dinners are served from 20:30 to 22:30. Many monuments and museums are closed on Monday (staff day off). The vast majority of commercial banks work from 09:00 to 14:00 and close during the evenings, Opening Hours except some banks which open on Thursday afternoon.

As in any big city, to prevent thefts or bad experiences watch your bags, camera and passport and don’t take much money in cash with you, especially at the Airport and Metro. If you come back late at night to your hotel take an official taxi. At night it´s better to avoid the triangle formed by Gran Via, Puerta del Sol and Callao as during the night is frequented by pickpockets, prostitutes, pimps, drunk people and homeless. If you have been victim of a theft, go to the nearest Police Station. Montera Police Station is the nearest to downtown. Tel: (+34) 915234594 (English speaking).

Mass Media Spain has a long list of TV channels. TVE and La2 are the national public broadcasters. Telemadrid is the public television station in Madrid but unfortunately it suffers record-low audience figures. Besides these channels, there are numerous private TV stations: Antena 3, Telecinco, La Sexta, Neox, FDF, etc. At the same time there are also multiple pay-TV channels which offer sports, Sitcoms, movies, etc. (Fox, Canal Historia, Discovery Channel, Viajar, etc.).

Madrid Express

Disabled Travelers Madrid is a city fully adapted for disabled people. Most of the restaurants, hotels, cafes, offices, schools etc. are equipped to make life easier for disabled people. At Plaza Mayor Tourist Office visitors can find maps and other information in Braille. More information on www.esmadrid.com Public transportation also contributes to the integration of disabled people: urban buses have special low floor and there are special seats for elderly and disabled. Most Metro stations have lifts and more than 50% of the stations are fully adapted for wheelchairs. If you need a wheelchair accessible taxi, call to EuroTaxi (24h 915478200/915478500). The city traffic lights emit a sound when they are green to warn people with visual difficulties. The streets are well graded and you will find ramps in almost every corner. If you need to rent or buy a wheelchair during your stay in Madrid, there is a special store for disable people in Old Town where can find almost everything: crutches, orthopedic insole, mobile walkers, etc. Ortopedia Plaza SL Address: Calle Toledo 60 Metro: La Latina

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BASICS During your visit to the city probably you have seen some small kiosks under the name of ONCE: it is a foundation that sells lottery and offer work to disabled people, trying to integrate them into society. If you need assistance during your vacation in Madrid, you can go to the ONCE Head Office: Address: Calle Sebastian Herrera, 15 Tel: 917146300 Metro. Embajadores

Madrid Card The Madrid Card allows you to vist this magnificent city efficiently, saving money and time. Buy now your Madrid Card and enjoy great advantages: Free Entrance to all Museums and attractions in Madrid (including Real Madrid Stadium), avoid kilometric queues in Prado Museum or Reina Sofia, enjoy great discounts in shops, restaurants, etc. and use metro and bus with no limitations. Prices: 24h: 45€ 48h: 55€ 72h: 65€ 120h: 75€ These cards are personal and not transferable. Madrid Cards are activated when used for the first time. You can order your Madrid Card online (www.madridcard.com) or you can get it also at any tourist office in Madrid.

other European countries. The average price of a ticket is about 10€ (there are reduced prices on several weekdays, depending on each cinema). Films are premiered on Fridays causing the chaos in Gran Via Avenue. This day Gran Via is filled with photographers, journalists and fans willing to do whatever it takes to get an autograph from their favorite Hollywood stars. You can check the chart on: www.guiadelocio.com The major multiplexes are in large shopping centers located on the outskirts of the city (Xanadú www.madridxanadu.com, Plenilunio www.plenilunio.es, Isla Azul www.islazul.com, and La Vaguada www.enlavaguada.com are some of them).

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Tickets Madrid is a huge city with an enviable range of cultural and leisure activities: theaters, photo exhibitions, musicals, museums, concerts, festivals, etc. Many Spanish people from other provinces come to Madrid, Tickets especially on weekends, to enjoy the multiple recreational opportunities that Madrid offers. Due to the increasing agglomeration of people and tourists, it can sometimes be really hard to get a cheap ticket: for instance, trying to buy a ticket for a Real Madrid-Barcelona F.C. match can be a daunting task and prices can reach 150€-200€. For this reason we recommend several websites that facilitate the purchase and even allow you to choose the seat: www.ticketmaster.es www.entradas.com At the same time CaixaBank ATM´s offer the possibility of buying tickets for concerts, football matches, theaters, etc. Going to the cinema in Spain is somewhat Theatre in Gran Via Str. cheaper compared to Madrid Express

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What to Visit

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Madrid Highlights Madrid's fate changed forever in 1561 when King Felipe II decided to move his court from the Imperial Toledo to Madrid. From that time, the city gained economic and political importance. The Spanish ships sailed the seven seas, the Spanish culture and language spread over five continents and Madrid was considered as one the most influential cities in Europe. Long gone are the days of the Spanish Empire. However, the city has reinvented itself. Today Madrid is a cosmopolitan, open-minded and welcoming city. According to a popular saying "If you spend 24 hours in the city, you can consider yourself forever Madrileño".

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4 1 Gran Via Buildings

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4 The Royal Palace

1 Gran Via Buildings 2 Prado Museum

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Gran Via Street is , without a doubt, the most famous street in Spain. Its buildings, designed during the first half of the twentieth Madrid Express century, are really amazing.

This central square is, for In the eighteenth century, centuries, the place where King Felipe V ordered the the Spanish people construction of this amazing express themselves. Don´t Palace, the biggest one in miss the bear and madrone Western Europe. A must-see www.mundo-guides.com tree statue, one of the in Madrid. symbols of Madrid.

Prado Museum is one of the most visited Museums in the World. Visit the Prado Museum and admire works from wonderful artists such as Goya, Rubens, Velazquez, Van Dyck, etc.

5 Plaza Mayor

6 Retiro Park

For centuries, this part of Madrid was the core of the city. Everything happened in Plaza Mayor. Today this square is one of the most visited places by tourists.

If you visit Madrid, you cannot miss Retiro Park, probably the most beautiful park in Europe. Formerly, it was a private park for thePage Royal 15 Family.

History of Madrid

Madrid, the new capital of Spain:

We hardly have data on Madrid in pre-Roman times. Some archaeological remains reveal that the lands surrounding Madrid were inhabited by indigenous tribes (Iberos) who were attracted by the abundance of resources: forests, rivers, animals, etc.

The Arrival of the Ancient Romans: In 218 B.C. Romans entered Spain and the Iberian Peninsula became one of the most prosperous regions in Europe. The Romans founded cities so important such as Tarraco (Tarragona), Corduba (Córdoba) or Emerita Augusta (Mérida). However, at this time, the area where now Madrid lies was occupied by grasslands, forests, bears and wild boars.

The Foundation of Mayrit: The first historical reference about Madrid dates back to the ninth century. At this time, Muslims founded the city and called it “Mayrit” or “Magerit” which meant "water-rich city" in ancient Arabic. Over the years, Muslims endowed the city with a powerful military infrastructure: they built a defensive fortification (Alcazar), huge walls and numerous watchtowers. The main function of Madrid was to protect Toledo (70km from Madrid) against the Christian attacks coming from the north of Spain. The city was dominated by Muslims until 1085 when the King Felipe II (1527-1598) Christian King Alfonso VI conquered Madrid. From this moment on, the Alcazar was used as official Royal Residence when the Kings visited Madrid. Gradually the city was growing and new neighborhoods emerged outside the city walls.

Madrid Madrid Express

The destiny of Madrid changed forever in 1561 when King Felipe II declared it Capital of the Spanish Kingdom, one of the largest Empires in history. As of that moment, the city experienced many changes: new neighborhoods were built, land prices skyrocketed and thousands of immigrants from other Spanish provinces came to Madrid seeking new opportunities. What many people don't know, however is that King Felipe III moved the Capital of Spain from Madrid to Valladolid for a short time (1601-1606).

King Carlos III, the greatest Madrid Mayor: The eighteenth century saw the construction of large buildings and improvement works thanks to King Carlos III, who is dubbed the “King Mayor” by some historians. Carlos III tried to modernize Madrid and turn the city into a monumental capital. The legacy of Carlos III is quite palpable: the Botanical Garden, Prado Boulevard, Central Post Office (Puerta del Sol Square), Cybele´s Fountain, Alcalá Gate, public lighting, etc. th

Napoleon and the 19 Century: In 1807 Napoleon's troops, settled in Spain on the pretext that they wanted to invade Portugal. However the French emperor's plans were different: his real intention was to overthrow the Bourbon dynasty in Spain. Gradually, Napoleon took several Spanish cities. But the tense situation erupted on May 2, 1808. “Madrileños” rebelled and took the streets. The French response was brutal and the General Murat ordered his soldiers to kill hundreds of locals, the War of Spanish Independence had begun. Finally, after 5 years of armed combats, in 1813 the French were defeated and left the country. During the second half of the eighteenth century Spain experienced a severe economic crisis which culminated in the Revolution of 1868 called "La Gloriosa” (The Glorious). Queen Isabel II had to leave the country and the throne was occupied by Amadeo of Savoy. But his reign lasted only three years. In 1873 the King abdicated and the First Republic was proclaimed. Barely one year later, the new Government proved to be a disaster and King Alfonso XII (Bourbon dinasty) turned back to Spain from London.

The Spanish Civil War and Franco´s Dictatorship: In 1936 the terrible Spanish Civil War between fascists and republicans broke out. After three years, the war ended with the victory of the fascist side. General Francisco Franco came to power and ruled a dictatorship that lasted more than 40 years. Finally in 1975 Franco died and the new Constitution was approved (1978). A new era of liberty begun for Spain.

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WHAT TO VISIT Historical Timeline 711: The Arabs invaded and conquered Spain. Ninth Century: Muhammad I founded Madrid and the city was integrated into the Al-Andalus Empire. Tenth Century: The city experienced great prosperity. 1085: The Christian King Alfonso VI conquered Madrid. 1109: The town was completely devastated and destroyed by a Muslim attack. 1309: The first sitting of the Parliament of Castile was held in Madrid. 1391: The Jewish population in Spain suffered a violent attack. Thousands of Jews were killed. 1469: Marriage between Isabel of Castile and Fernando of Aragon. The two Kingdoms were united and Spain was founded. 1478: The Holy Inquisition was founded.

1807-1813: Napoleon entered Spain and the War of Independence against the French armies broke out. 1833-1839: First Carlist War: two contenders (Carlos María Isidro de Borbón and Isabel II) fought to establish their claim to the Spanish throne. 1850: Opening of the Royal Theatre and the Spanish Parliament. 1868: The Revolution (La Gloriosa) led to the dethronement of Queen Isabel II. 1873-1874: The First Republic was proclaimed. 1898: Spain lost Cuba, the last Spanish colony in America. 1910: Inauguration of Gran Vía Street. 1919: Madrid Underground began operating. 1931: The Second Republic was proclaimed.

1492: The Catholic Kings issued a decreed which ordered the final expulsion of Jews from Spain / Christopher Columbus reached America. 1521: Ferdinand Magelland and his expedition completed the first circumnavigation of the Earth and reached the shores of Philippines. 1561: Felipe II established the capital of Spain in Madrid. 1584: The construction of the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo del Escorial was finished. 1605: Miguel de Cervantes published Don Quixote de la Mancha, a masterpiece of Spanish literature. 1656: Diego de Velazquez painted “Las Meninas”. Probably the most amazing piece in the Spanish painting. 1701-1713: War of Spanish Succession. This conflict involved all European superpowers to conquer the Spanish throne. The Bourbon dynasty came to power. 1734: A fire destroyed the old Alcazar (Royal Palace).

1936-1939: The Spanish Civil War broke out. 1939-1975: Military Dictatorship (Francisco Franco). 1960: The terrorist group ETA committed its first attack in San Sebastian (Basque Country). 1978: Approval of the new Spanish Constitution. 1981: Failed coup attempt by Antonio Tejero. 1982: Celebration of the Football World Cup in Spain. 1986: Spain joined the European Union. 1992: Olympic Games in Barcelona. 2004: A terrifying terrorist attack took place at Atocha Station and killed 191 people. 2008-2014: The housing bubble bursted and the country entered a deep recession.

Tourist Offices & Guided Tours Thanks to the proliferation of low cost airlines, the endless cultural offerings and the promotion of Local Authorities Madrid has become one of the most visited European capitals, and an ideal place for either business or family holidays. The main entry point for tourists is Barajas Airport, one of the most modern and busiest airports in Europe (50 million passengers per year). French, Italian, German, Japanese and English tourists are the most numerous in Madrid. Therefore you will find information in these languages more easily than others. The wide network of Tourist Offices offer service to all tourists traveling to the capital of Spanish Kingdom. Tourist Offices in Madrid: Plaza Mayor 27 (Tel: 915881636) Atocha Station (Tel: 915284630) Plaza Colón (Tel: 913087143) Plaza de Callao (Tel: 915 88 16 36) Barajas Airport (Tel: 915881636) These tourist offices are full of useful information for visitors: maps, tourist routes, audio-guides, brochures, etc. If you have a disability or you are travelling with a handicapped person, ask for information: the qualified staff will offer you many services and activities tailored to meet the special needs of disabled people. Guided Tours: If you need an official guide, click below: www.madridguias.com/ & www.apit.es/ The Company Gocar offers funny tours in convertible cars equipped with GPS system and audioguides www.gocartours.es/en/madrid/ You can also rent a Segway (www.madsegs.com/) or if you prefer a bike tour (www.trixi.com/madrid). OgoTours offers a great Free Walking Tour (3 hours duration) visiting the main attractions of the city. More info: www.ogotours.com. They also offer a wonderful Gastronomic Tapas Tour where you will discover typical taverns and hundred-year old bars. Madrid Express

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WHAT TO VISIT Useful Information Address: Calle de Bailén Metro Station: Opera  Prices: General 10€ /Reduced 5€/ Free Admission: From Monday to Thursday from 16:00 to 18:00 (October to March) and from 18:00 to 20:00 (April to September) to citizens of the European Union and Latin American. Opening Hours: April-September: Monday to Sunday: 10:00 to 20:00. October-March: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00. Due to the celebration of official acts, the Royal Palace can suspend tourist visits.

Royal Palace Located in the heart of the city, the Royal Palace is an essential part of Madrid.

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he Muslim Kingdom of Toledo (ninth century) built in this area a defensive fortress called Alcazar which gave rise to the birth of Madrid. Around the building emerged neighborhoods inhabited mainly by workers of the Alcazar (soldiers, blacksmiths, builders, vets, etc.). After several centuries, the city was conquered by the Christian troops (1085) which occupied the Alcazar and the surrounding area. Over the years, Madrid was turning into an influential city and Felipe II decided to carry out improvement works to transform the Alcazar into The Official Residence of the Spanish Kings (sixteenth century). During this time, the Palace was provided with works of incalculable value (sculptures, paintings, frescoes, etc.) and became a symbol of the Habsburg dynasty. After a horrible fire (1734) Felipe V commissioned architect Giovanni Battista Sacchetti to design a new huge Palace that stunned the world with the power of the Spanish Empire. The works lasted more than 17 years. Unfortunately, when the Palace was finished Felipe V had already died and Carlos III, much loved by locals, was the first monarch to live at the Royal Palace and establish here his Official Residence. The lush and splendid decoration of the interior of the Palace was supervised by Kings Carlos III and Carlos IV. The Royal Palace was the Official Residence of the Spanish Royal Family until 1931 when was proclaimed the Second Republic in Spain and King Alfonso XIII was forced to leave Spain and take refuge in Rome. In 1975 the monarchy was restored in Spain but the Royal Palace was not used as Official Residence anymore. Today the Palace is used to hold official ceremonies and receptions of ambassadors and heads of State. Currently the Official Residence of the Royal Family is the Zarzuela Palace, located far away from downtown and heavily guarded. Visiting the Royal Palace Plaza de Armas This square was designed as the main entrance to the Palace.If you look closely at the façade you can contemplate a beautiful clock and two bells, one of which was saved from the fire of 1734.

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A charming staircase with 72 marble steps brought from Toledo and beautiful frescos painted by Conrado Giaquinto are waiting for us in the entrance hall of the Palace. Alabarderos Room This room was the place where the Royal Guard met. Don't miss the mythological paintings by Giovanni Battista. Hall of Columns This space was used as a ballroom and Gala dining room until the nineteenth Century. Admire the wonderful decoration and the impressive chandeliers. In this room was signed the accession of Spain to the European Union in 1986. Throne Room The most amazing part of Changing of the Guard the Throne Room is the beautiful vault painted by Ceremony Giovanni Battista Tiepolo The first Wednesday of each month (allegory of the (except July, August and September) monarchy). Don´t miss the from 12:00, visitors can enjoy the wonderful baroque Changing of the Guard Ceremony at the decoration: chandeliers, Royal Palace. The performance is mirrors, walls covered composed of a large group of soldiers with gold embroidery, and horses marching with typical crystal stone chandeliers uniforms of the Royal Army. In total 100 and four great bronze lions horses and 400 soldiers perform the brought from Naples to changing of the guard as was done in the the capital of the Spanish nineteenth century. The parade is Empire in 1651. Special accompanied by the band of the Royal mention should be made Army. Absolutely recommended! of the incredible Italian Approximate Length: 40 minutes. lamps of the eighteenth century and the marvelous marble statues. Gasparini´s Rooms The tour continues through the private rooms of King Carlos III, considered the heart of the Palace. These rooms are also known as Gasparini´s Rooms as he was the architect who designed them.  Gasparini Antechamber Here the King Carlos III dined and had private conversations. The walls are decorated with blue silk. There are four splendid paintings by Goya which depict Carlos IV and his wife Maria Luisa of Parma. One of the most wonderful elements of this room is the clock (the most luxurious of the Palace) which was made of mahogany, bronze and porcelain. This clock was

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WHAT TO VISIT







designed in 1789 by Jean Demosthenes Dugourc who sent it, dismantled in pieces, from France to Madrid. Once in Madrid, it was installed by expert clockmakers. Gasparini Room This place was used by Carlos III as dressing room. It is, undoubtedly, one of the most luxurious parts of the Palace. The room is decorated in rococo and oriental style. The beautiful marble floor and the elegant silk tapestry are simply amazing. Tranvia de Carlos III Room This long and narrow room was formerly the Oratory of Carlos III. Carlos III Room This room is decorated with beautiful French-style furniture. Usually Carlos III slept in this room when he was in Madrid. On 14th December 1788 Carlos III passed away in this room while he was sleeping.

Yellow Room This room is ornamented with yellow silk and houses a fine collection of clocks which are worthy of admiration. Porcelain Room The floor is decorated with colored marble and the walls and ceiling are covered with porcelain plates. The design and decoration was made by three great artists: Jose Gricci, Genaro Royal Palace Boltri and Juan Bautista de la Torre. The porcelain came from the Royal Porcelain Factory of Buen Retiro which was located in the Retiro Park and was destroyed during the War of Independence against France (1808-1813). Do not miss the wonderful nineteenth century planetary clock, really amazing. Dining Gala Hall The Fire of 1734 This room was restructured in 1879 for the wedding of Alfonso XII and Maria Cristina of Hapsburg. On December 24, 1734 the Royal The stunning decoration will leave Palace was destroyed by a you speechless: stucco, paintings, terrific fire. The whole complex Chinese vases, Brussels tapestries, was in flames during 4 days in a silk curtains, etc. row and nothing seemed to stop Fifteen incredible lamps are the fire which devoured the suspended from the ceiling. building. This fire caused the Royal Library loss of hundreds of Master It is estimated that the Library of Pieces belonging to the Royal the Royal Palace houses about Family. Other pieces were saved 300,000 volumes (engravings, in extremis like the painting "Las maps, manuscripts, books etc.) Meninas" (Diego Velazquez) constituting a true national which is exhibited at the Prado treasure that should be preserved Museum. The painting in forever. question was thrown from a Pharmacy and Armory window of the Palace. After the Palace, we recommend The Royal Family did not suffer you to visit the Royal Pharmacy, any damage as that night they founded by King Felipe II in 1594. were in the Buen Retiro Palace. Here visitors can see old laboratory bottles, pharmacy tools, etc. On the opposite side of Plaza de Armas we can visit the Royal Armory. If you like weapons this part of the Royal Palace houses one of the most stunning weapon collections in Europe. During the War of Madrid Express

Independence (1808-1813) “madrileños” stormed the Royal Armory to stock up with weapons and fight against French troops which were extremely powerful. Sabatini Gardens Earlier this part of the Palace housed the Royal stables for the King´s horses. These stables were designed by the architect Sabatini but in 1930 the Local Government demolished the stables and built these beautiful gardens in a neoclassical style with statues, ponds and fountains.

King Carlos III and Madrid Carlos III was born in Madrid in 1716. From an early age Carlos III knew that one of his most important missions was to recover the Spanish influence in Italy, something vital to consolidate the country as a superpower. In 1737 he married Maria Amalia of Saxony, daughter of the King of Poland. Shortly later, Carlos III inherited the throne of Naples and Sicily. In Italy Carlos III carried out an exciting project and tried to convert Sicily and Naples into two major European capitals. Soon Carlos III won the heart of Neapolitan and Sicilian people: huge palaces were built, numerous public works were developed and the King tried to remove power from the nobles and Carlos III portrait the Church. In 1759 Carlos III inherited the Kingdom of Spain. During his reign, Carlos III was a faithful ally of France and bitter enemy of England who was trying to dominate the seas. Socially Carlos III sought to modernize Spain under an illustrated program that had as central axis to reduce the power of the Nobility and the Church. He also reinforced the sense of Spain as a nation, designing the flag and the national anthem. In 1788 Carlos III died in Madrid. All historians consider that Carlos III was a great “Mayor” for Madrid as he gave a boost to public works, built Equestrian Sculpture of Carlos III (Puerta del huge palaces, beautiful Sol) boulevards and nice squares, created the postal service and installed street lights around the city turning Madrid into the true capital of a powerful country. You can see an equestrian statue of this important figure in Puerta del Sol (see the picture). Did you know…? Carlos III created the National Lottery with the intention of collecting taxes and financing the Seven Years War. Carlos III had known this system in Naples where there was a tradition very similar to current lottery. This way Carlos III imported the idea to Spain in order to fill the government coffers.

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FREE WALKING TOURS BY LOCALS EVERY DAY AT 10:45 AT PUERTA DEL SOL (GREEN UMBRELLA)

Madrid Free Walking Tour, Gastronomic Tapas Tour, Flamenco Tour and much more. #MadridExperience BOOK YOUR TOUR on www.ogotours.com

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WHAT TO VISIT Useful Information Address: Calle Bailen 8 (Visitor Entrance) Metro Station: Opera  Prices: Almudena Cathedral 1€ (voluntary donation) / Crypt 1€ Opening Hours: September–July: from 09:00 to 20:30 / July-August: from 10:00 to 21:00 Crypt: from 10:00 to 20:00 (Monday and Wednesday closed from 14:00 to 17:00).

Almudena Cathedral 4th April 1883 King Alfonso XII made initial steps to build the first Cathedral in Madrid.

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erhaps the Almudena Cathedral is not the kind of cathedral we could expect from an important city such as Madrid. The building is small in size compared to other European cathedrals (London, Milan, Berlin, Paris, etc.) and was austerely designed due in large part to lack of funds. History According to ultra-catholic theories Madrid was not founded by Muslims but by Christians. Some erudites consider that Madrid was a tiny village with a small church (Santa Maria de la Almudena) whose Madonna was revered by all inhabitants. Years later the city was occupied by the Muslims (ninth century) and the church was transformed into a mosque, something very common at that time. But after the Christian reconquest (1085), the mosque was reconverted into a church again. Unfortunately in the nineteenth century the Local Authorities decided to demolish the old church and approved a plan to build a great Neo-Gothic Cathedral which would amaze the world. Sadly the continuous wars, uprisings and lack of funds frustrated this magnificent project. Given this situation, the ecclesiastical authorities decided to build the present Cathedral which was much more simple and less expensive. Works were carried out during decades because of the shortage of public funding and the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). Finally works could be finished thanks to the contribution of the Government and some private companies in 1993. The Cathedral was consecrated by Pope John Paul II on June Madrid Express

15, 1993 (first church consecrated by John Paul II outside Rome) during a solemn ceremony attended by politicians, ministers, bishops, etc. You can see a statue of Pope John Paul II, much loved in Spain, near the entrance. The Cathedral has two facades: the main façade is located in front of the Royal Palace. The other façade is facing Bailen Street and its gates are open for mass every day. The main façade has three stunning bronze doors, the right one represents the Spanish Monarchy and the left one represents Latin America. Inside the Cathedral Pope John Paul II we find a frugal Neo-Gothic style where central stage is dominated by a statue of Our Lady of Almudena. The Mysterious Legend of Virgin of Almudena The old church (Santa Maria de la Almudena), built before the Muslim conquest and demolished later, housed a beautiful Madonna worshiped by all “madrileños”. According to legend the Madonna was brought to Madrid by the Apostle Santiago. In the ninth century Muslims began the conquest of Madrid: the locals, really terrified by the ferocity of the Muslim troops, took down the Madonna and buried it near the city walls. This way Muslims could never get hold of the Madonna or damage it. Usually when the Muslims conquered a city destroyed all the churches and shrines and burned religious icons. In the eleventh century the Christians reconquered Madrid (1085) and King Alfonso VI promised to recover the Madonna which had been buried almost two centuries ago. The King invested much effort and money to find this beloved symbol of the city, but nothing seemed to work. Alfonso VI desperately organized a religious procession attended by the Royal Family, the nobility, Cathedral Crypt bishops, priests, army´s senior officials, Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar (Hero of the Spanish Reconquest and

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WHAT TO VISIT

The Spanish Royal House and the Almudena Cathedral

popularly known as “El Cid Campeador”) and hundreds of thousands of “madrileños”. When the procession passed by a small storage tank for wheat, suddenly several stones from the city wall fell down and the Madonna appeared along with two candles that had remained lit for more than two centuries. This discovery caused astonishment among all attendees. King Alfonso VI took the Madonna and placed it in the Church of Santa Maria de la Almudena. Unfortunately this religious wood statue was burned during a fire and replaced by an exact copy carved in the sixteenth century. This legend lacks any historical basis. According to experts Madrid was founded by Muslims and there is no evidence of Christians living in this area before the foundation of the city. Crypt Probably the most interesting and less publicized part of the Almudena Cathedral is the crypt which is located just below the building (visitor entrance: Mayor Street). Walking among the tombs, sculptures and columns produces a feeling hard to explain with words. The crypt was designed in Neo-Romanesque style and has 20 wonderful chapels where the aristocracy and bourgeoisie of Madrid were buried after paying large Crypt Entrance amounts of money to the Church. If you are a curious tourist you can visit the mausoleum of the architects of the Cathedral, Marques de Cubas and Enrique Maria Repulles y Vargas. The stained glass windows designed by Maumejean, deserve special mention, take a look! One of the best works of art inside the crypt is the mural of Our Lady of the Lily, which dates back to the twelfth century. Finally do not miss the impressive columns (more than three meters high), some of them constructed in one piece, truly amazing. Museum of the Cathedral If you are a fan of religious art should visit the Museum of the Cathedral. Here you will find a wonderful collection (distributed in two galleries) of paintings, statues, old clothes, and even a codex dating from 1230 which tells the story of San Isidro (Madrid Patron Saint) and his miracles. Do not miss a small-scale reproduction of the impressive Neo-Gothic Cathedral which could not be built by the lack of financing. Main Facade At the same time if you buy the ticket (6€) for the Cathedral Museum you can visit the dome. From up here you will enjoy breathtaking views of the historic Main facade of the Almudena Cathedal center of Madrid.

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Despite the recent corruption scandals committed by some members of the Royal Family, the Spanish monarchy enjoys popular support among its people. On April 4, 1883 King Alfonso XII, in a solemn ceremony, laid the foundation stone of the new Cathedral of Madrid. The land chosen were donated by the Kings of Spain, thanks to the persistence of the Queen Maria Mercedes of Orleans who had to convince the King to build the Cathedral. According to historians, the Queen was the real driving force behind the construction of the Almudena Cathedral. Unfortunately, the Queen died when she was 18, just five months after her marriage to King Alfonso XII. In fact, the tomb of Queen Maria Mercedes is located in the Cathedral of Madrid. The King, desolate after the death of his beloved, left the Royal Palace in Madrid and retired to the Palace of Rio Frio in Segovia. Over the years Spain gradually developed and Shield of the Spanish Royal the Monarchy was adapted to House new times. After several brief relationships, Felipe de Borbon publicly announced his marriage (2003) with a popular journalist called Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano (news presenter on public television). The choice of the young journalist caused a great controversy in the country as the future Queen of Spain did not belong to the nobility. The Monarchy did not listen to the criticism and endorsed the decision of his son. On May 22, 2004 Madrid dressed up to celebrate the most important wedding of the century: the streets and squares were remodeled, buildings were decorated with garlands and the Almudena Cathedral was decked out to welcome the future kings of Spain. Following the Catholic tradition, the culminating point of the ceremony was the presentation of the “arras” (13 silver coins, gold in this case, which symbolize the economic prosperity for the family) and the exchanging of rings (worth 3000€ each one). The wedding was attended by over 1700 guests, including the major Royal Houses of Europe, politicians and powerful businessmen. At 12:45 the cathedral bells tolled, the princes left the church and went to the square where a Rolls Royce Phantom IV (gift from Adolf Hitler to Francisco Franco, who subsequently donated the car to the Spanish Royal House) waited to take them to the Basilica of Atocha. While the princes covered the distance between the Almudena Cathedral and the Basilica of Atocha, an aperitif was offered to guests at the Royal Palace. At 13:30 the princes arrived at the Basilica of Atocha where they made an offering. This basilica is very special for the Bourbon dynasty. At 14:15 the princes came to the Royal Palace and minutes after an impressive feast began: 2000 bottles of top quality olive oil, seven-course menu and 150 kilos of wedding cake were some of the delicacies the guests could enjoy. On June 2, 2014 King Juan Carlos I, weakened by age and involved in a corruption scandal, announced his abdication in favor of his son Felipe. This decision came as a surprise to the Spanish society and the national press.

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WHAT TO VISIT Useful Information Address: Plaza Mayor Metro Station: Sol  / La Latina  Prices: Opening Hours: -

Plaza Mayor Plaza Mayor has its origin in the thirteenth century when a Central Market was set up here.

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ery close from Puerta del Sol and Plaza de la Villa is located the Plaza Mayor, a beautiful square replete with balconies, pinnacles and typical slate roofs. These kind of squares, typical from Castillian cities such as Salamanca or Valladolid (Spanish capital for a brief period of time 1601-1606), were once the nerve center of the cities and all activity revolved around them. Plaza Mayor has its origin in the thirteenth century when this area of the city was full of shacks and small streets. At the same time, this humble neighborhood had a main square (Plaza del Arrabal) where a market was installed (Mercado de la Villa). Traders and merchants came here to sell all kind of groceries like meat, fruits, pickled fish etc. Over the centuries, trade activity in this square grew spectacularly and many Jews started their own business here. In 1561 King Felipe II decided to move the capital of Spain from Toledo to Madrid, a decision that changed the fate of the city forever. One of his top priorities as King of Spain was to rejuvenate and renovate this old and dirty area of Madrid: Felipe II commissioned Juan de Herrera, who few years before had designed the wonderful Monastery of Escorial, to reform the old square (Plaza del Arrabal). Unfortunately, in the early seventeenth century the square was in a lamentable state of preservation and Felipe III decided to create a larger square worthy of an important city like Madrid. The architect in charge of designing the new square was Juan Gomez de Mora, a pupil of Juan de Herrera, who was inspired by the drawings of his teacher. Shortly after its inauguration, the square began to be used as a venue for all kind of events such as bullfights, executions of

Tip: Do not miss the Visitor Reception Center where you will find all kinds of information (maps, routes, official guides, brochures, audio-guides etc.). Address: Plaza Mayor 27 (Tel: 915881636) Madrid Express

famous prisoners, inquisition hearings or military parades. Throughout its history, Plaza Mayor was burnt down three times (1631, 1670, and 1790) so improvement works were needed again. Before these reconstruction works the buildings surrounding the square were higher than today (five stories). After a controversial debate, the architect Juan de Villanueva decided to design three-story residential buildings with more than 200 balconies as one can see today. Plaza Mayor has nine entranceways: Arco de Cuchilleros (Cutler´s Arch), located in the southwestern corner on the Square, is the most outstanding of them all. Arco de Cuchilleros (1790) leads to Cutler´s Street where all knife shops and small workshops were located. Probably the most beautiful part of the square is the Casa de la Panadería (Bakery House) whose façade has been decorated with wonderful frescoes. This building housed the seat of Baker´s Guild. The statue in the middle of the square commemorates King Felipe III, one of the driving forces behind the construction of the Square. The Statue was placed here by order of Queen Isabel II in 1848. Nowadays Plaza Mayor is a meeting point for “madrileños” and a must-visit place in the city for all visitors. A lot of typical bars, restaurants, souvenir shops, antique shops surround this nice square, creating a very special atmosphere. The small Botoneras Street boasts two of the best places in Madrid (Bar La Ideal and Bar La Campana) to eat a typical squid sandwich, real fast-food for “madrileños”. These sandwiches cost less than 3€ and come with mayonnaise (optional). Locals usually drink a “caña” (draft beer served in a small glass) to accompany these delicious sandwiches. Every Sunday morning there is a small numismatic market where you can find different types of coins from Roman or Arab Times to rare coins. This market is held since 1920. Several weeks before Christmas a great Market, considered the best in Spain, is inaugurated at Plaza Mayor where Christmas gifts, decorations, funny wigs, hats, Christmas trees and joke items can be found in abundance.

Santa Cruz Palace This beautiful Palace, 50 meters away from Plaza Mayor, was built between 1629 and 1643. However, over the years, the building was restored several times (1846, 1931, and after the Spanish Civil War due to heavy shelling that struck the city). Fortunately, despite the numerous reforms the building retains its original style: pinnacles, courtyards, slate roofs, brick walls etc. This Palace was used as prison of the Court until the eighteenth century: the cells were full of famous prisoners such as Lope de Vega, General Riego or Espronceda. The Spanish Inquisition used the Palace as well. Those sentenced to death were executed in the nearby Plaza Mayor. Nowadays the Palace houses the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Address: Plaza de la Provincia 1 Metro: Sol  / Tirso de Molina 

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WHAT TO VISIT Useful Information Address: Puerta del Sol Metro Station: Sol  Prices: Opening Hours: -

Puerta del Sol Puerta del Sol has witnessed important events in the history of Spain that changed the destiny of the country.

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n the sixteenth century Puerta del Sol was one of the most used point access to the city: this place was occupied by a huge gate and a castle to protect the city wall (both of them destroyed). Over the centuries the city was growing and expanding and Puerta del Sol became an important place in the common life of “madrileños”. The square also has witnessed important events in the history of Spain that changed the destiny of the country: In 1766 occurred the Mutiny of Esquilache. King Carlos III forbade the use of long coats and traditional hats in Madrid (“chamergo”). Shortly after, the population of the city revolted against this law and Madrid was in chaos for several days. Even the King's life was in danger during the uprising. Puerta del Sol was one of the epicenters of the protests. These protests were only the straw that broke the camel back as behind this situation there was a serious economic and social crisis. In 1808 the Napoleon´s army crushed brutally in Puerta del Sol an uprising against the French occupation. The great Spanish painter Francisco de Goya depicted in one of his most famous paintings ("The Mamlukes") this despicable act of the Egyptian troops of Napoleon. The painting can be admired at the Prado Museum. In 1912 the Prime Minister, Jose Canalejas, was killed in Puerta del Sol by an anarchist while he was watching a window shop. Recently, the square has been the epicenter of the protests against the government during the current financial crisis, bringing together hundreds and thousands of people of all ages. The physiognomy of the square has changed substantially over the years. The last change took place in 2009 with the construction of the new commuter train station. This station is one of the biggest in the world with 28 meters deep, 207 meter long and more than 7500

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meters². Today Puerta del Sol is full of icons quickly identified by any “madrileño”. Some of them are: Old Postal Office The building was built in 1768 during the reign of Carlos III. In 1847 the Postal Office was transformed into Government Ministry. In 1866 the clock was added to the building and since then it has become an icon of the city, well known by all Spaniards. During the military dictatorship (1949-1975) the basement of the building was used as jail for political prisoners where gross violations of human rights were committed. Today the building serves as the Government House of Madrid. Kilometer Zero In front of the old Postal Office there is a plaque which symbolizes the kilometer zero. Spain has a radial road design and this plaque marks the geometric center. Bear and Madrone Tree Statue (1967) They are the symbol of the capital and even appear on the City´s shield since 1220. Without any doubt, it´s one of the most photographed places in Spain. Carlos III Statue (1994) In the middle of the square lies a Carlos III Statue, designed by Miguel Angel Rodriguez and Eduardo Zancada. Some experts call Carlos III "The King Mayor" due to the important improvement works he set in motion in Madrid (see page 19). Cafeteria Mallorquina Old-fashioned-style cafeteria & patisserie very well known by all “madrileños”. We can say that this patisserie is a survivor as the whole square, as well as the entire city center, has been conquered by fast-food restaurants, franchises, burgers etc. The cafeteria has two floors. On the ground floor you can buy cakes, sandwiches, coffee, “churros” (cruller), sweets, etc. Upstairs there's a 'quiet zone' with chairs for those who want a more tranquil cafe experience.

New Year Eve in Madrid Every December 31 “madrileños” come to Puerta del Sol to celebrate the New Year. Maybe you didn´t know but for more than a hundred years, Spanish people have a curious tradition of eating 12 grapes in 12 seconds as the clock marks the final twelve hours of the year. If you gobble down all the grapes you will have good luck during the coming year. The origin of this tradition goes back to the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. During these years, German and French aristocrats had the habit of eating grapes and drinking champagne during the New Year´s Eve dinner. Shortly after, the Spanish aristocracy copied the habit. But “madrileños” have a great sense of humour and lower-class people ironically began to imitate the aristocrats in eating grapes during New Year´s Eve. Of course, champagne was too expensive for them. At the same time, in 1909 there was a huge surplus of grapes in the eastern provinces of Spain and producers desperately needed to sell them. They saw business opportunity and decided to popularize this recent habit of eating grapes on New Year's Eve. Gradually the habit consolidated in others parts of the country until today.

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WHAT TO VISIT Useful Information Address: Calle Gran Via Metro: Gran Via  / Callao  / Santo Domingo  Prices: Opening Hours: -

Gran Via Street Gran Via Street is, with no doubt, the most famous street in Spain.

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his street is also called "The Spanish Broadway " because of the large number of cinemas, theaters, shops, restaurants, old cafeterias, etc. During the second half of the nineteenth century, Madrid expanded dramatically. Many neighborhoods were demolished and the limits of the city grew as never before. In this context, the Government considered that the city center needed an urban renewal program. Fortunately, in 1904 the project to renovate one of the most central parts of Madrid was approved: a big avenue would cross the heart of downtown like in others important European cities such as Paris or London. At the same time, the avenue would connect Salamanca and Argüelles quarters with Puerta del Sol Square. In addition, the traffic would be easier for everyone and the transfer between Atocha and Principe Pio Railway Stations would be more comfortable and faster. The design of Gran Vía Street created a great controversy in Madrid as it demanded expropriating and demolishing entire blocks. Shortly after the inauguration of Gran Via Street (1910), Telefónica Building was built becoming the highest skyscraper in Europe. This wide and modern Gran Via Street 16 avenue was planned in three different phases: 1910-1917: from Alcala Street to Montera Street (Red de San Luis). 1922-1925: from Red de San Luis to Callao Square. Madrid Express

These first two phases are the result of a prolonged economic boom experienced by the city in early twentieth century: buildings are really beautiful and renowned American architects were hired. 1925-1955: from Callao to Plaza España. Spain's economic problems are reflected in this part of Gran Via Street. Post-war and the military dictatorship wreaked havoc and strangled the Spanish economy: buildings lack of aesthetic quality compared with other buildings located at the beginning of the avenue. Gran Via Street boasts some of most amazing and spectacular buildings in Spain. Let´s quickly review some of them! Metropolis Building (Alcala Street 39) When we all think of Madrid suddenly this building come to our mind. Metropolis Building (1911) is located between Alcala and Gran Via streets and was designed by Jules Raymond Fevrier, born in France, for the insurance company La Unión y el Fénix. Currently the building is owned by Metrópolis Seguros. The building reflects the origin of its architect, especially the circular tower very popular in Paris during the early twentieth century. The statue that crowns the building represents the goddess Victoria. Originally there was a statue of the Phoenix but the company that owned the building took it with them when they sold the building to Metrópolis Seguros. In 1996 important works was carried out. The entire facade was restored, specially the sculptures which were heavily damaged by environmental pollution and pigeons. Grassy Building (Gran Via Street 1) This elegant building was designed by Eladio Laredo (1917). The beautiful tower with columns is similar to the nearby Metropolis Building. Since the fifties, the building is named Grassy for the luxury jewelry store, specialized in watches, located in the premises. This jewelry has a small museum where you can admire beautiful clocks from the sixteenth to nineteenth century. Museo Chicote (Gran Via Street 12) Museo Chicote was one of the first bars to serve cocktails in Madrid. This bar, opened in 1932, was frequented by famous artists like Salvador Dali, Frank Sinatra, Orson Welles and Ava Gardner. In 2004 Museo Chicote received the "MTVCampari Recommneds" award as the best bar in Europe. Casino Militar (Gran Via Street 13) This beautiful building houses an Association to support the military personnel: military exhibitions, lectures, a hairdresser for soldiers, gym, massage room, etc. Real Oratorio del Caballero de Gracia (Gran Via Street 17) The remote origin of this building dates back to the seventeenth century. However, soon afterwards, the building had to be seriously reformed by Juan de Villanueva due to its poor state of preservation (eighteenth century). The particular facade of the building (1916) was modified when the Government began to build Gran Via Street. The last major reform was carried out in the late twentieth century

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WHAT TO VISIT ,when Javier Feduchi Benlliure designed the triumphal arch that today dominates the facade and helps to create a sense of movement. Thanks to the arch we can admire the apse and the Church dome. The entrance facade (1831) is facing South (Caballero de Gracia Street) and was designed in a neo-classical style. Inside the temple were painted dome frescoes by Zacarias Gonzalez Velazquez. Banco Central Building (Gran Via Street 18) During the first decades of the twentieth century Madrid lived an economic boom and began to receive tourists. In view of this demand, the first hotels in Madrid were designed. Thus, in 1943 the Roma Hotel was built. Later, in the mid-twentieth century Banco Iberico bought the building and transformed it into its head office.

The Spanish Civil War and Gran Via Street During the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) Spain and especially Madrid suffered a terrible setback. The country was engaged in a fratricidal war while industrial activity was paralyzed. The international community, stunned, followed Spanish submarine in Cartagena (Spain) the course of the war that would lead to the implantation of a military dictatorship until 1975. During these war years Gran Via Street was viciously bombed by the Fascists and traders tried to protect their businesses along the length of the avenue: facades were all bricked up and barricades were placed in the middle of the street. Telefonica Building was used as a watchtower. On Callao Square was located the Hotel Florida (currently El Corte Ingles Department Store), where the international press covered the grotesque war. Hewingway was one of these correspondents. The great American writer and journalist reported that he could even hear the bullets, grenades and machine-gun fire from his room. In fact the Hotel received some impact during the war.

Old Hotel Metropolitano (Gran Via Street 23) The building was designed by Vicente Agustí Elguero and José Espelius in 1918. Formerly this building housed luxury apartments and the Metropolitan Hotel. In the past, the commercial premise was occupied by the wonderful jewelry Alexandre, the most luxury and renowned in Madrid. Unfortunately in the eighties of the twentieth century, the jewelry was sold to the American fast food franchise McDonald´s. The opening of this restaurant, one of the first McDonald´s in Spain, was a social event in the city. By Gran Via Street 38 law, McDonald´s had to preserve the original facade and some interior elements. Casa Matesanz (Gran Via Street 27) It was one the first commercial building in Madrid (1923). The structure of the building is inspired by the American School of Chicago.

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Telefonica Building (Gran Vía Street 28) Telefonica Building was the first skyscraper in Europe (1929). The pomp and majesty of the building is a reminder of New York; in fact, the building was codesigned by the North American architect Louis S. Weeks. Perhaps, the most attractive part of the building is its central tower, 81 meters high. The scant exterior decoration was added later by Ignacio Cardenas. In the lower floors there are exhibition halls and even a museum dedicated to the evolution of telecommunications (including the first phone in Spain, used by King Alfonso XIII). Old Zahara Cafe (Gran Via Street 31) In the decade of the twenties bars and cafes of North American style began to become popular, one of them was Zahara Cafe. Now lost in time, Zahara Cafe was very popular in Madrid: many people still remember the coffee with “churros”, delicious snacks or combo plates that businessmen ate quickly before returning to the office. Unfortunately due to disagreements with the owner of the premises, the cafeteria was closed and currently it belongs to a fashion franchise. This is our tribute to a place much loved by “madrileños”. Madrid-Paris Building (Gran Via Street 32) In 1924 was inaugurated this impressive Shopping Center, one of the first in Europe, by the Company Madrid-Paris (owned by the French Société Paris-France which already was running other Shopping Centre in Paris). Shortly after the opening, the owners had to make major changes since the Shopping Centre was not getting the expected results: many staff, inadequate goods, etc. Finally the problems of the Spanish economy wreaked havoc on the company and the Shopping Center was sold to different companies (1934). Hotel Tryp Cibeles (Gran Via Street 34) In 1924 José Yarnoz Larrosa and Antonio Palacios designed the Hotel Alfonso XIII, a real symbol of the capital in the early decades of the twentieth century. Later it was bought by Melia Hoteles, one of the leading Spanish hotel chains, and changed its name to Hotel Tryp Cibeles. Palacio de la Música (Gran Via Street 35) Classical style building constructed between 1926 and 1929. The building was designed to house a concert hall, a movie theater and even a nightclub. Due to technical difficulties the initial project suffered substantial modifications. Shortly after being inaugurated a terrible fire destroyed much of the building, including a beautiful organ. Inside there is an impressive movie theater and an auditorium with capacity for more than two thousand people, one of the largest in Europe. Carrión Building (Callao Square) Carrion Building (Callao Square) Carrion Building (1933) is famous throughout the capital for the lighted sign of Schweppes, a popular beverage brand. The building is a magnificent example of art deco in Spain. Callao Square has become one of the busiest places in Spain. During 2013, it is estimated that approximately 110 million people passed by here.

Tip: Try to avoid this Avenue and parallel streets at night. When stores, cinemas, theaters and restaurants close the avenue begins to fill with undesirable characters as prostitutes, pimps, Chinese mobile food vendors, pushers, etc. Despite the installation of security cameras and heavy police presence the Authorities don´t get rid of these nocturnal visitors that are having an adverse effect on one of the main streets of Madrid.

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WHAT TO VISIT Useful Information Address: Plaza de Cibeles Metro: Banco de España  Prices: Opening Hours: -

Cybele´s Square This unique square, designed by King Carlos III, is one of the main arteries in the city center.

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his place in Madrid seems to never take a rest, remaining active for twenty-four hours a day. Hundreds of thousands of people, including tourists, businessmen and bureaucrats, crowd the sidewalks, contributing to create a vibrant atmosphere hard to find in any other Spanish city. During the night Cybele´s Square is the point from where all night buses depart, popularly known as “buhos” (owls). The beautiful square is dominated by an amazing building (Palace of Communications), designed in the early twentieth century, which has become one of the most photographed places by the thousands of tourists who throng the city. In the middle of the square, like an island surrounded by asphalt and cars, is located one of the icons of the capital: Cybele´s Fountain, much beloved by Real Madrid fans. Two other buildings that will capture your attention are the Bank of Spain and the Linares Palace. Palace of Communications This imposing building, located on one side of Cybele´s Square, was built between 1905-1917 by architects Antonio Palacios and Joaquin Otamendi for the Posts and Telegraphs Society of Spain. This building, more than 70 meters high, reflects the impulse that the Spanish capital received by Authorities in the early twentieth century to become Madrid an important and major European city. Unfortunately the bloody Spanish Civil War (19361939) ended the Cybele´s Fountain hopes of an entire Madrid Express

country that was beginning to emerge from a dark period. From the architectural point of view, we can admire various influences in this building: Gothic, French Modernism, American School and Spanish School. The wonderful central hall was surrounded by small windows for postal employees and was beautifully decorated with bronze stands where people wrote their letters. Outside we can still see the brass mailboxes with the names of the different Spanish provinces. Nowadays the building has a double function: City Hall and Cultural Center. On the first floor there is a nice Cafeteria (Coleccion Cibeles). Despite its privileged location, the prices are quite affordable, considering that we are in one of the most touristic places in the city (1.5€ for a coffee or 6€ for a full breakfast). The sixth floor is occupied by an elegant restaurant where we will enjoy wonderful views of Gran Via Street, the most famous street in Spain. But if you are looking for a unique view, keep going up! On the eighth floor was designed a viewpoint from where you will have majestic views of the entire downtown: Gran Via Street, Cybele´s Square, Metropolis Building, Paseo de la Castellana and even Colon Towers. An opportunity you cannot miss for anything in the world. Viewpoint Opening Hours: from 10:30 to 14:00 & from 16:00 to 19:00 (Monday Closed) Prices: General 2€ / Children under 12 years: 0,50€

Cybele´s Fountain Cybele´s Fountain is today one of symbols of the city and one of the most beloved monuments by “madrileños”. The construction of this fountain was part of the project of King Carlos III to modernize and renovate the Paseo del Prado. In addition to Cybele´s Fountain, the design of the new boulevard included other two fountains: Neptune Fountain and Apollo Fountain, both of them preserved in perfect condition. This neoclassical fountain was built in 1782 by sculptor Francisco Gutierrez and Robert Michel and represents the Greco-Roman Goddess Cybele in a chariot drawn by lions. In the past, the fountain had two water pipes: one of them was intended for government employees who took water buckets from the fountain to the nearby houses. The other pipe helped passers-by quench the thirst. A popular legend in Madrid said that the water from Cybele´s Fountain had beneficial effects on health. The mask that throws water out in the front part of the chariot represents Attis who was turned into a tree by the goddess Cybele. Before, the fountain was located in front of Buenavista Palace, barely 50 meters away from its present location. In 1895 the fountain was moved to its current location, causing much controversy in the city: the reasons behind this decision gave

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WHAT TO VISIT boost to all kinds of rumors; in bars people didn’t stop talking about that and newspapers dedicated pages and pages about the fountain. Over the years the progress reached Madrid and people, for the first time in history, could access to potable water in their houses, improving hygiene conditions. Thanks to these advances it was no longer necessary to provide water for people and the City Council decided to place the fountain on a pedestal and installed a fence around the fountain to avoid possible damage. Attention! If you like football you must know that Real Madrid fans come to celebrate their victories to this popular fountain. Local Authorities block the surrounding roads and team players come to mingle with the crowd. Bank of Spain The cult of Cybele The Bank of Spain was created Despite what many people think, by the merger of San Goddess Cybele has no Greek Fernando Bank and Isabel II origin but the myth comes from Bank. The building was Phrygia, ancient region of Asia inaugurated in 1891 by King Minor corresponding to the Alfonso XII and it was current Turkey. From here the designed trying to imitate cult of the goddess Cybele spread others Central European throughout the Mediterranean Banks: majestic neoclassic basin. “Taurobolium” was the style with the intention of most popular rite in honor of conveying a sense of power. Cybele. During this ceremony was Barely thirty years after its sacrificed a bull, an animal very inauguration, the building present in the culture of southern underwent major renovation Europe. and improvement works Cybele was considered the (1927) to modify its structure. Goddess of fertility and nature Over the years, the Bank of and therefore she was revered Spain had to adapt to the and highly respected, being built changing times and numerous temples in her honor. improvement works were Usually Cybele is pictured with a needed again (1936 and turreted crown and a chariot 1975). Some of these works drawn by lions which symbolize were intended to increase the the submission of nature to the security in the building. almighty Goddess. The Bank of Spain has three entrances (Paseo del Prado, Cybele´s Square and Alcala Street). Despite what many people may think, the most important entrance of these three is the one located in the Paseo del Prado but is only used for special events. The interior of the building, barely known by locals, is simply spectacular: there are art works from masters such as Goya, Velazquez, Moneo etc. The Central Library is especially beautiful and was designed by Eiffel, the famous French architect, who devised an innovator method to build his illustrious iron tower in Paris. The main staircase was made from marble and is surrounded by windows with mythological themes. This staircase leads to the Clock Courtyard where you can enjoy a wonderful art-deco decoration. Turning to another issue, the Bank of Spain has one of the safest strongroom in the world which stored large reserves of gold, jewels, precious gems and foreign exchange. To access this strongroom were implemented modern and powerful security measures: 1. Steel vault door (16 tons). This door can only be opened using two different keys which are in possession of two senior officials of the Bank of Spain. 2. Elevator. We must go down 36 meters to the bottom of the complex. It is also necessary a key to activate the elevator. 3. Vault door (14 tons). 4. Deep lake. To cross the lake there is a retractable bridge similar to the castles of the Middle Ages. 5. Vault door (8 tons). 6. Flood. If someone without authorization accesses to the strongroom, all the alarms will be activated and a complex system of pipes would flood the complex, preventing any possibility to escape. Madrid Express

This piping system also supplies water to Cybele´s Fountain so in case of theft the popular fountain would lose its water to protect the treasures of the Bank. Linares Palace This palace belonged for many years to Jose de Murga, the first Marquis of Linares, and his family. Jose de Murga was an important senator and successful banker that marked a new stage in Madrid. In 1873 the Marquis of Linares Palace Linares ordered the construction of a beautiful Neo-Baroque palace in the center of Madrid, opposite Cybele´s Fountain. The luxury building reflects the economic heyday that Madrid experienced in the early twentieth century: luxury hotels were built, Gran Via Street was designed, wealthy businessmen built large palaces, tram was inaugurated, etc. The rich banker spared no expense and the best architects and decorators of the time were hired. The main entrance of the building is facing Cybele´s Square but is only used for special celebrations such as ambassadors’ receptions and banquets. The usual entrance to the palace is located on Paseo de Recoletos, area where formerly bankers lived. The interior of this elegant palace is dominated by an interesting Neo-Baroque style with quality wood, marble, gold and allegorical murals. One of the most beautiful parts of the Palace is the central Hall, beautifully ornamented. At the rear of the building there is a lovely staircase which leads to the garden of the palace where we can admire the pavilion “Casa de Muñecas” (Doll House) built by Manuel Aníbal Álvarez in Romantic style. Unfortunately after the death of the Marquis, the family began to squander the immense fortune accumulated over decades. Part of the beautiful furniture was sold to pay pressing debts and another part was disappeared during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). Today the building houses the Casa de America, cultural institution that promotes art, literature and film in Spain and Latin America. For this purpose it was necessary to remodel much of the interior of the palace, including the construction of an underground auditorium.

Mysteries and ghosts at Linares Palace Mateo de Murga, Jose de Murga´s father, educated his son exceptionally, with deep moral values that shaped his personality. When Jose grew, he fell in love with a beautiful girl of humble origin who would hardly be accepted by the snob Spanish aristocracy. In view of this situation, Mateo de Murga sent his son to London with the intention that Jose forgot definitely his girlfriend. Shortly after sending his son to England, Mateo de Murga died and his son had to return to Madrid to attend the funeral of his father. Once in Madrid, Jose decided to marry his beloved woman. Years passed by and one day, Jose de Murga found, while he sorted some documents, a letter from his father dated shortly before his death. In this letter Mateo de Murga apologized to his son for sending him to England and revealed a terrible secret: his wife was actually his stepsister. The young Jose, shocked, decided to build this palace in the center of Madrid. The building was designed so that Jose lived on the lower floors and his sister-wife on the upper floors of the palace. According to legend, the Pope himself (Leo XIII) authorized the young couple to live under the same roof. Nowadays workers and security personnel of the palace assure to have heard mysterious cries, screams and sobs of Mateo de Murga who couldn´t bear to see his two sons living together. Likewise the voices of Jose and his sister-wife, tormented, try to explain the situation to his father.

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WHAT TO VISIT Useful Information Address: Plaza de La Independencia Metro: Retiro  / Banco de España  Prices: Opening Hours: -

Alcala Gate Alcala Gate is one of the most beloved symbols of the city by all “madrileños”.

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his wonderful must-see is located on Independencia Square, very close from Retiro Park and the opulent Serrano Street, the place where the famous actors and multi-millionaire footballers do their shopping. From ancient times, Madrid was protected by a powerful wall that had different points of access and Alcala Gate was one of them. The city gates were closed at night and heavily guarded by soldiers. In the early morning hours the gates were opened again and the city regained instantly its vitality. This system allowed an effective control of epidemics, greatly feared by the population and Authorities. In the late eighteenth century Madrid was expanding enormously and the Kings had great plans to rejuvenate the city. In 1759 King Carlos III arrived in Madrid from Italy, where he lived, and decided to demolish the old Alcala Gate. The King considered that the old gate was not classy enough for an important capital like Madrid. Shortly after several architects submitted their proposals, some of them tremendously innovative. Finally Carlos III opted for the design of Sabatini, his favorite architect. The new Alcala Gate (1778) was built in a Neo-Classical style with 5 arches and surrounded by a strong wall that protected the eastern part of the city. The great Sabatini used two types of stone for this elegant gate: granite and white stone from quarries near Madrid. If you pay attention, the central arches are higher than the lateral ones. There was a logical explanation for that: the three central arches were designed for horses and carriages so they need to be high enough. The rectangular arches provided access for pedestrians. Likewise iron grill gates were installed to prevent the entry of undesirable characters during the night. If you look closely, the fronts are different one from each other. This lack of symmetry was perfectly premeditated. The King wanted that people entering the city had a different impression from the people leaving the capital. As you can notice, King Carlos III paid attention to details! The statues that crown the Gate symbolize the fortitude, justice, temperance and prudence.

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By the mid-eighteenth century a bullring with capacity for 12,500 people was built very near to Alcala Gate. This bullring satisfied one of the most popular entertainments in Spain, bullfights. Alcala Gate was restored for the first time in 1869 due to major damage suffered during the early nineteenth century, mainly caused by the Spanish War of Independence against the French Army. Taking advantage of this restoration works, local Authorities decided to revitalize this area of Madrid and demolish the huge city wall adjacent to Alcala Gate. Since then, the Alcala Gate has been restored four times more. Shortly after being inaugurated, the historic bullring was closed down and torn down, releasing a large space in the heart of the city. Throughout history, Alcala Gate has witnessed many events that changed the fate of Madrid and Spain: In 1823 Alcala Gate saw as the French troops, allies of King Fernando VII, besieged Madrid and entered the city through this gate. In 1886 Authorities inaugurated, near Alcala Gate, an elegant statue dedicated to the legendary Spanish military Espartero, who participated in some of the most important battles of the Modern History of Spain. The bronze statue was designed by Paul Gilbert Roig. In 1921 the President of the Council of Ministers was shot near Alcala Gate while traveling in his official car. The murderers fled at full speed in a sidecar. During the Civil War (1936-1939) the gate became a symbol of the Republicans who used it as a propaganda instrument. Despite the passage of years Alcala Gate has not fallen into oblivion and is part of the collective life of everyone in Madrid: multitudinous events, commemorative masses and important celebrations take place here regularly.

Francesco Sabatini: The Architect of the King Francesco Sabatini was one of the greatest architects of the eighteenth century and his fame spread throughout Europe thanks to his magnificent works. Sabatini was born in Palermo (Italy) in 1722. During his youth Sabatini was influenced by the beautiful classical architecture of Rome where he could deepen his knowledge of the architecture of the Roman Empire. His father-in-law Luigi Vanvitelli worked for King Carlos III when he was still King of Naples. The influence of his father-in-law allowed him to enjoy an excellent position in the Spanish Court. When Carlos III became King of Spain (1759) called Francesco Sabatini to help him to develop his plan to revitalize Madrid. Gradually the Italian architect was gaining the confidence of the monarch (he became one of the King's right-hand man) while increasing his popularity. Some of the most outstanding works of Francesco Sabatini were: remodeling works at the Royal Palace, Royal Customs House, Alcala Gate, San Vicente Gate, General Hospital (now Reina Sofia Museum), the facade of the Basilica San Francisco El Grande. Unfortunately in 1797 Francesco Sabatini passed away in Madrid.

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WHAT TO VISIT Useful Information Address: Calle Alfonso XII 14 Metro: Retiro  Prices: Opening Hours: Winter (06:00-22:00) Summer (06:00-24:00) open every day

Retiro Park Very close to the Prado Museum we find Retiro Park, one of the city lungs and one of the most beautiful parks in Europe.

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etiro Park is undoubtedly the most famous park in Spain: “madrileños” come every day to walk, breathe fresh air, cycling or yoga, especially during the week-ends, filling the avenues of the park and the beautiful gardens. This park plays a vital role in Madrid and allows the city to breathe deeply, as the environmental pollution in the city center is rife. In the seventeenth century Felipe IV ordered the construction, on the outskirts of the city, of the Buen Retiro Palace (now destroyed) as a second official residence of the Spanish Royal Family. Usually the Kings lived at the Royal Palace (see page 19) and came here in spring and summer. A large private park for rest and relaxation of the Royal Family was laid out as part of the project: small palaces, exotic gardens and ponds were built. Even ducks, swans and peacock were released. The extension of the park was huge and the Kings held private parties to which attended the nobility and aristocracy of Madrid. King Carlos III (eighteenth century) and Fernando VII (nineteenth century) opened to the public different parts of the park, creating a great expectation among the locals. Unfortunately during the Spanish War of Independence (1808-1813) the park suffered tremendous damage. The city rebelled against the regime of Napoleon and the French troops used the park as a fortress against the English army, ally of Spain and a bitter enemy of France. The park was the scene of a bloody battle that destroyed large parts of Retiro Park. Even today archaeologists have found scraps of fabric from military uniforms and even shrapnel from French and British armies. Finally in 1868, thanks to a decree, the park was completely open and the property was transferred from the Royal Family to the City of Madrid. During the 80´s of the twentieth century, the park underwent a rejuvenating process: the City Hall built public baths, Madrid Express

asphalted some avenues of the park and increased police presence. At the same time the park was populated by a colony of squirrels that perfectly adapted to the environment and can still be found running around the gardens and climbing trees. This romantic park, comparable in size to London´s Hyde Park, is full of beautiful places and hidden spots. Fisherman's Cottage: Wonderful building designed by King Fernando VII and surrounded by a romantic small artificial lake. The King came here when he wanted to be quiet and read without anyone bothering him. Statue of the Fallen Angel: This is the only statue in the world dedicated to Lucifer. The sculpture depicts the exact moment in which Lucifer is expelled from paradise with a snake around his body. Many locals were strongly opposed to its placement in this idyllic park of the capital. Today the statue has become a tourist attraction and one of the most popular sculptures in Madrid. However what many people don’t know is that horrible legends and stories have circulated around this statue over the year, creating a true feeling of terror and suspense among Madrileños. According to urban legend, strange phenomena have happened here and some corpses have appeared near this place. Besides, sporadically satanic sects and demon lover groups gather here to celebrate their mysterious rituals. If you have access to a GPS you can check that the altitude in this part of Statue of the Fallen Angel the park is 666. Coincidence or not? Velazquez Palace: Beautiful neoclassical building designed for the National Mining Exposition, held in Madrid in 1883. Today the building houses temporary art exhibitions. Crystal Palace: In 1887 an exhibition about the Philippines, former Spanish colony, was organized in Madrid. After several projects, the local Authorities decided to build this crystal palace for the aforementioned exhibition. The palace was used as a greenhouse. Organizers brought all kinds of species of plants, exotic animals and even a genuine native tribe that lived in the park. After the exhibition, the Authorities decided to preserve the beautiful palace. Nowadays the building is used to exhibit art works belonging to the Museum of Modern Art Reina Sofia (see page 34). Pond Retirement: It's, without any doubt, the most visited place

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WHAT TO VISIT within the park. Bank holidays we can enjoy food stalls, performances, puppet shows for children, etc. creating a very festive atmosphere. The 30m-high Pond Retirement statue that dominates the pond is devoted to King Alfonso XII, known by the Spanish press as the “King Peacemaker”. Inside the pond people go canoeing or boating. If you want you can rent a boat for 4,30€ (45minutes). Water pond is home to many fish and some ducks. Unfortunately in some parts of the pond water is extremely green and full of trash. Egyptian Fountain: On one side of the pond we find a beautiful fountain with Egyptian aesthetics. This theme was very popular during the first half of the nineteenth century, largely due to the incredible campaigns of Napoleon Bonaparte in Egypt. The fountain, currently without water, is composed of two sphinxes and a large vase-headed woman. At the top there was a huge column with a statue of Osiris, now missing. A popular legend holds that this part of the park hides a Egyptian Fountain treasure with innumerable gold coins. Vacas House: To the north of the lake we can visit this interesting building, old dairy farm, where wonderful exhibitions are held regularly. Gate of Spain (1893): It was designed by José Urioste y Velada who also involved in the design and construction of Gran Via Street. The gate is facing Alfonso XII Street, very close to “Cason del Buen Retiro”. Statues Boulevard: Paseo de Argentina extends from the Gate of Spain to the Pond of Retirement and is flanked by a series of statues in honor of various Kings of Spain. All these statues were designed to decorate the cornice of the Royal Palace but when King Carlos III came to power he ordered removed the statues and placed them in different parts of the city (Oriente Square, Retiro Park, Sabatini Gardens, etc.). La Rosaleda: In the southern part of the park there is a beautiful rose garden which is really worth a visit. During the first decades of the twentieth century the city lived an ephemeral development and the Fisherman´s Cottage locals began copying habits, customs and architectural styles from European cities like Paris, Vienna, etc. One of these European trends was the beautiful rose gardens such as the “Bois de Boulogne” in Paris. The Spanish landscape architect Cecilio Rodriguez studied in detail this romantic garden of Paris, brought roses of all colors from various European countries and copied the model. Finally, after a long fitting-out period, the rose garden was opened in 1915. Forest of Memory: In 2005 the Forest of Memory was inaugurated. 192 cypress trees were planted to evoke the victims of the terrorist Madrid Express

attacks that took place on March 11th 2004 in Madrid. Galapagos Fountain: This fountain was built to commemorate the birth of Queen Isabel II (1830-1903). The reign of Isabel II led to a civil war (Carlist War) between supporters of Isabel II (“Isabelinos”) and Infant Carlos (“Carlists”).The fountain represents two frogs, two giant turtles, an iguana and a group of children surrounded by dolphins. Herrero Palacios Gardens (old Madrid Zoo): In 1830 King Fernando VII carried out a number of key improvements and reform works in this part of the park. King converted all this area in a huge park for wild animals. This primitive zoo had a large collection of animals from all over the world, mainly from South America (llamas, toucans, macaws, alligators, etc.). Fortunately, in 1972 the Madrid Zoo was moved to La Casa de Campo, situated away from the city center, where the Local Authorities designed all types of adequate facilities, perfectly adapted for wild animals. Currently the former zoo buildings and cages have been transformed into gardens and offices for the park employees. The legend of the Troll: Since the construction of the park, a beautiful legend has circulated around Madrid. It is said that in the most hidden parts of the park lives a troll who appears to couples in love and makes grow beautiful flowers of all colors. Whether it's true or not, the fact is that many couples come here every day.

Tip: If you visit the Retiro Park and you are a religious art lover, do not miss one of the most beautiful churches of Madrid, Iglesia San Manuel and San Benito (1910). This building (Neo-Byzantine style) was financed by a wealthy businessman who lived in the nearby district of Salamanca. Formerly Madrid´s bullring was located in this area. Address: Calle Alcalá 83 Prices: Opening Hours: from 7:00 to 13:30 & from 17:30 to 20:30

The Retiro Park and The Royal Porcelain Factory Carlos III, the most popular King in Spanish History (see page 19) was the driving force behind the creation of several factories where luxury goods (crystal, porcelain, fabrics, cloth, etc.) were manufactured. According to the King these factories would catapult the Spanish economy, boost exports and create many jobs. No doubt, King Carlos III adopted a progressive attitude during much of his reign and tried to modernize the country. One of these important factories was built inside the Retiro Park, the Royal Porcelain Factory. The quality of the porcelain produced here was so high that many royal families bought the Spanish porcelain and decorated their palaces with it. If you visit the Royal Palace in Madrid or the Monastery of the Escorial you can admire some of the amazing pieces produced in this factory. Over the years France and England, major producers of porcelain in Europe, felt the threat of the new Spanish factories and decided to eliminate the competition. Surprisingly, during the War of Independence (1808-1813) the British troops (Spain´s allies), following orders of the Queen of England, destroyed the wonderful Royal Porcelain Factory and dealt a mortal blow to the Spanish economy. This factory was situated where today stands the statue of the Fallen Angel, one of the most visited places in Madrid.

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WHAT TO VISIT marriages, some of them extremely controversial, in 1985 he married Carmen Cervera, a former Miss Spain. Over the years Hans Heinrich got old and he was afraid that after his death the collection disappeared. Given this situation, he decided to create a museum to preserve the wonderful collection. Carmen Cervera's influence was crucial to locate the Museum in the capital of Spain (1992). Cities like Paris, London, Bonn or even Los Angeles struggled without success to get the Museum. In 2002, Hans Heinrich passed away, leaving Carmen Cervera as the richest widow in Europe. Another branch of the Thyssen Family had ties with the German dictator Adolf Hitler. After some disagreements with the Führer, the family fled to Costa Rica where they took refuge. The Museum, which is located at the Villahermosa Palace, houses one of

Golden Triangle of Art This area, popularly known as “The Golden Triangle of Art”, is formed by the three major Museums of Madrid.

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hese three museums are Prado Museum, Reina Sofia Museum and Thyssen Bornemisza Museum and together exceed five million visitors a year. Thanks to its privileged situation, Paseo del Prado is one of the areas with the highest density of works of art in Europe per square meter, similar to the Island of Museums (Berlin) or Museumplein (Amsterdam). The tour begins at the Thyssen Museum which is located between Cibeles Square and Canovas de Castillo Square. After this wonderful museum, we cross the square and head towards Prado Museum, one of the best museums in the world. Finally we will walk down Paseo del Prado until Emperador Carlos V Square where we will find Reina Sofia Museum, great modern art museum. If you plan to visit all three museums and other monuments of the Spanish capital we recommend you to purchase the Madrid Card with which you will save some money www.neoturismo.com. Thyssen Bornemisza Museum The Thyssen Family comes from Holland and Switzerland where they owned huge mansions and important business which generated hundreds of millions in revenue every year. The family collection began during the twenties. The economic crash of 1929 greatly benefited Thyssen Family as many millionaires had to sell their art collections which were acquired by the family. Hans Heinrich von Thyssen-Bornemisza was the real driving force behind this magnificent museum. Hans Heinrich (1921), son of Heinrich Thyssen, was 25 when he inherited an incredible business empire. After the death of Heinrich Thyssen his children divided up the works of art, breaking the dream of creating a unique collection. Hans Heinrich faced his brothers and fortunately recovered the works. During the following decades he expanded the art collection; new works were purchased and new artistic styles were introduced, increasing significantly the value of the collection. After four frustrated

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the greatest collections of paintings in Europe, bringing together more than 1000 art works from the Gothic to the twentieth century: Van Eyck, Van Gogh, Raphael, Caravaggio, Rubens, Rembrandt, Van Gogh, etc. The functional design of the Museum, by Rafael Moneo, makes the visit easier and more comfortable. In 2004 the Museum was enlarged (Goyeneche Palace) to accommodate a new collection of the family. Of particular interest are the rooms dedicated to the German Renaissance, Dutch Baroque and Italian painting. Other rooms house magnificent collections of Realism, Expressionism, American artists of the eighteenth century, etc. If you visit this wonderful Museum, one of the most

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Villahermosa Palace Elegant palace built in the eighteenth century for the Villahermosa Family. This area of the city was the place chosen by the nobility and the bourgeoisie of Madrid to build their summer residences. Here they could enjoy romantic gardens, fresh air, etc. away from the hustle and bustle of city life. In the early nineteenth century this palace underwent major improvement works (1805) carried out by the architect Antonio Lopez Agudo. During the nineteenth century Villahermosa Family was accumulating power and the palace became a place with a great social activity: concerts, private parties, receptions of ambassadors, etc. were held regularly at the palace. Even the magnificent Austrian pianist Franz Liszt attended a private party in 1844. Unfortunately in the twentieth century (1973) the building was bought by a bank that destroyed the building: major structural elements were modified to build offices and adapt the building to its new use. Ten years later (1983) the bank failed and the building was acquired by the Spanish Government. In 1989 the Spanish Authorities and the Thyssen Family reached an agreement, fruitful for both parties, and the works to adapt the building as a Museum began (Rafael Moneo). Thyssen Family really loved this building since its dimensions were appropriate and was near the Prado Museum, which assured a significant flow of visitors.

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important in Europe, you cannot miss any of the following paintings: “Portrait of Giovanna Tornabuoni” (Domenico Ghirlandaio), “Young Knight in a Landscape” (Vittore Carpaccio), “Esau selling his birthright” (Hendrick Ter Brugghen), “Easter Morning” (Caspar Friedrich) and “Rue Saint-Honoré” (Camille Pissarro). Some art experts say that Prado Museum and Thyssen Museum are perfectly complementary: those artistic styles not fully represented in the Prado Museum, are widely documented at Thyssen Museum. Address: Paseo del Prado 8 (Villahermosa Palace) Metro Station:  Banco de España Prices: General 10€ / Reduced 7€ / Children under the age of 12 Free Admission / Monday from 12:00 to 16:00 Free Entrance for visitors. Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday: from 10:00 to 19:00. Monday Closed (except from 12:00 to 16:00).

Prado Museum Your visit to Madrid will never be complete without visiting the Prado Museum, one of the most visited Museums in the world (more than 3 million people per year). The Prado Museum houses the largest collection of Spanish painting in the world, especially Velazquez and Goya, the two greatest artists in the history of Spain. Like other major European museums, such as Prado Museum Louvre in Paris or Hermitage in Saint Petersburg, the Prado Museum has its origin in the different ruling dynasties which collected works of art. Emperors, Kings, Dukes, etc. bought works of art, swapped paintings and sculptures with wealthy families and commissioned portraits to the best artists of the moment. Prado Museum is especially interesting because it reflects the personal tastes of the Spanish Kings, their alliances, collaborators and political adversaries. That´s the main reason that the collection is a little bit irregular, insuperable in certain artists and styles and weak in others. Gradually the Government is trying to correct this glaring lack of balance by adding new works and styles. Currently more than 9,000 works comprise its funds, mostly paintings, of which only 1,500 are exhibited due to lack of space. As you can imagine, the basement of the Museum, where Authorities store hundreds and thousands of works of incalculable value, is one of the most guarded places in the country. The Building: The germ of the current Prado Museum must be sought in the eighteenth century when King Carlos III carried out a development plan to revitalize this area of Madrid. The King commissioned Juan de Villanueva, one of the most celebrated European architects, the construction of the Royal Cabinet of Natural History. Architects, designers and workers took about twenty years to finish the building, designed in an elegant neoclassical style. Shortly after completion, the French troops occupied Spain; Jose Bonaparte (Napoleon's brother) took command and sent King Fernando VII to France where he lived in exile in a luxurious palace. The Spanish people, humiliated by the French armies, rebelled and the conflict began. The War of Independence (1808-1813) broke up and the Royal Cabinet of Natural History suffered major damage: the building was used as military barracks so it was a priority objective of the allied troops. After the war, with Spanish victory, Fernando VII returned triumphantly to Spain and undertook a series of tough reforms. Isabel de Braganza, second wife of Fernando VII, was one of the promoters of the Prado Museum: thanks to the Queen, in 1818 reconstruction works began, rejuvenating this part of the city. Madrid Express

WHAT TO VISIT The great Spanish architect Antonio Agudo Lopez restored the building based on Juan de Villanueva´s drawings. The result was an elegant, sober and classic building to house the Royal Museum of Painting, which was inaugurated in 1819 by the Kings of Spain. The wonderful building by Antonio Lopez Agudo can be divided into three parts: Main Façade: portico with Tuscan order columns overlooking the Paseo del Prado. The façade is dominated by a rectangular pediment with sculptures which depict an allegory of Fernando VII as Patron of Science and Art. We also find a popular sculpture of the Spanish painter Velazquez (1899) by Aniceto Marinas and Vicente Lampérez. North Façade: this part of the building is located in front of Ritz Hotel and is decorated with Ionic columns. Near the facade there is a wonderful statue of the great Spanish painter Francisco de Goya. In this part of the building are quite usual the interminable queues to enter the Museum. South Façade: this façade, in front of the Botanical Garden, is composed of two floors. The upper part is decorated with six Corinthian columns, creating a sense of majesty. Between the Museum and the Botanical Garden there is a statue of Murillo, famous Spanish painter. Gradually the museum was accumulating works and collections from other museums of the capital as the Museum of the Trinity and the Museum of Modern Art. In 1920 the museum changed its name to Prado Museum, due to a Royal Decree by the State. The real revolution of the museum took place in the second half of the twentieth century: Spain was experiencing a tourist boom and Madrid was filled with foreign tourists, thanks in part to the dictator Francisco Franco who realized the enormous potential of tourism for the economy. In this context, the Prado Museum facilities were insufficient and Jose Alvarez de Toledo (Duke of scarce. Alba) painted by Francisco de Goya During the decades following the museum continued to increase the number of visitors and the Spanish Government carried out a series of improvements to become the museum one of the best in the world. As part of the project, the Authorities decided to expand the museum. In 2007 the “Jeronimos Building”, designed by the renowned architect Rafael Moneo, was inaugurated. This expansion is connected to the main building through an underground passage and allowed to expand the collection of the museum about 50%. The third building which forms part of the complex is the “Cason del Buen Retiro” that houses the Prado Museum Study Center, inspired by the “Ecole du Louvre” (1882). Prado Museum Study Center has as its mission the research and analysis of the history of art, especially in Spain. At the same time, it is a center specialized in training of experts and has an extensive library. Finally there is a fourth building integrated in Prado Museum, the former Army Museum (Mendez Nuñez Street). In the early twentyfirst century the Army Museum was moved to Toledo and the building was incorporated into the Prado Museum although its function is still being defined. So far the building has housed some temporary exhibitions and conferences. Essentials: If you visit this wonderful museum, some of the paintings you cannot miss under any circumstances are:

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WHAT TO VISIT The Mamelukes (Goya) Las Meninas (Velazquez) Third of May (Goya) The Spinners (Velazquez) The Clothed Maja (Goya) The Family of Carlos IV (Goya) Children on the beach (Joaquin Sorolla) The Surrender of Breda (Velazquez) The Nobleman with his hand on his chest (El Greco) Copy of La Gioconda (Unknown)

Francisco de Goya (1746-1828)

The Nobleman with his hand on his chest, El Greco (Prado Museum)

Visiting the Prado Museum A visit to the Prado Museum, walking along its endless corridors and halls, could last a lifetime so we want to offer you some points to be considered when visiting the museum: Basement: Decorative Art ("Grand Dauphin" and "pietre dure and “cassoni” desks). Ground Floor: Paintings & Sculpture from 1100 to 1600: Raphael Van der Weyden Bosch Durer First Floor: Paintings from 1550 to 1800. El Greco Titian Poussin Caravaggio Rembrandt Rubens Velazquez Bank Murillo Goya Second Floor: The Holy Family of the Little Bird Bartolome Esteban Perez Murillo Paintings from 1700 to 1850. (Prado Museum) Goya (works from 1800 to 1828) Mengs Address: Calle Ruiz de Alarcón 23 Tiepolo Metro Station:  Banco de España Watteau Prices: General 14€/Reduced 7€/ Free Admission: Monday-Saturday (18:00 to Last chance for souvenir 20:00) and Sundays (17:00 to 19:00) / shoppers! Before leaving the museum, there is a shop Children Free Admission. Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday: from where you will find all 10:00 to 20:00. Sundays from 10:00 to 19:00 kinds of souvenirs, books, Website: www.museodelprado.es/en/ postcards, etc.

Tip: We recommend buying a pack that includes ticket + museum guidebook (available in multiple languages: English, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, etc.) for 23€. In the Museum entrance hall there is a Visitor´s Information Desk: here you can buy an audio guide or get a map of the museum that will be very helpful to not get lost in the endless corridors and countless rooms of the museum. Madrid Express

Goya (Fuentedetodos -1746, Bordeaux -1828)is considered as one of the greatest painters in history. After a study period in Zaragoza, Madrid and Italy, in 1771 Francisco de Goya achieved his first major work: the ceiling decoration at the impressive Basilica del Pilar (Zaragoza). In 1775 Goya moved to Madrid. During this early stage, Goya combined works as "Picnic on the banks of the Manzanares" with orders from the Royal Tapestry Factory where he made designs for seventeen years. In 1789 Goya achieved his Goya Portrait by Vicente Lopez dream, the King appointed him Portaña (Prado Museum) Court Painter, the highest consideration for a painter. Unfortunately in 1793 Goya suffered a serious illness and became deaf for the rest of his life. Between 1795 and early nineteenth-century Goya received orders from very powerful families (Naked )Maja, The Dukes of Alba, The Clothed Maja, Family of Charles IV or Jovellanos). In the late eighteenth century Goya published his famous series “Los Caprichos”, 80 etchings where the painter criticizes the Spanish society. A little later Goya painted “The Disasters of War” a protest against the violence of the Spanish War of Independence (18081813) against the French. In 1819 Goya bought a house in Madrid and decorated it with 14 magnificent works called "Black Paintings" (Saturn devouring his son, Witches´ Sabbath or Men Reading). Unfortunately, in 1828 Goya passed away in Bordeaux. In 1901 his remains were transferred to San Antonio de la Florida Shrine (Madrid).

Reina Sofia Museum Most visited Museums Reina Sofia Museum is considered by many experts the best Modern in the World Art Museum in Spain and one of 1. Louvre Museum (Paris) the best in Europe (15th most 2. British Museum (London) visited museum in the world: 3. Metropolitan Museum of Art 3,200,000 visitors in 2013). (New York) This interesting museum contains 4. Tate Modern (London) works from the nineteenth 5. National Gallery (London) century until today by wonderful 6. National Gallery of Art artists such as Salvador Dalí, (Washington D.C.) Picasso, Miró and many more. 7. Museum of Modern Art (New Avant-garde, Surrealism, Cubism York) and Modernism are fantastically 8. Centre Pompidou (Paris) represented in the Museum, a 9. National Museum of Korea real paradise for modern art (Seoul) lovers. Besides paintings, the 10. Orsay Museum (Paris) museum houses an interesting 11. Prado Museum (Madrid) collection of sculptures by various European artists. The Building: The Building was built in 18th century as part of a larger project initiated by the monarch Carlos III to revitalize the center of Madrid. The King wanted to create a huge General Hospital with modern facilities for the care of the citizens of the Spanish capital. Carlos III commissioned this important task to the Italian architect Sabatini, who designed an elegant neoclassical building. Unfortunately In 1788 part of the project was canceled and the building began operating as Hospital until 1965. In the late twentieth century the building was in deplorable condition. In 1980 the Government decided to rehabilitate the building to house a Cultural Center and a museum of Modern

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WHAT TO VISIT Art. Perhaps the most striking aspect of this reconstruction was the installation of two external elevators, sign of identity of the museum. In 1992 the building was finally inaugurated as a museum by the Kings of Spain, in a solemn ceremony. In 2006 was opened an extension of the main building designed by Reina Sofia Museum the French architect Jean Nouvel which substantially improve and modernize the facilities of the museum: the building was expanded 30,000 square meters, including a documentation center, a free-access library specializing in art and a cafeteria run by the famous Catalan chef Sergi Arola. Address: Calle Santa Isabel 52 Metro Station: Atocha Prices: General 8€/ Reduced 4€/ Free Admission: Monday-Saturday (19:00-21:00) (except Tuesday) / Sunday (15:00-19:00) Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday: from 10:00 to 21:00 / Sunday: from 10:00 to 19:00 / Tuesday Closed

All you need to know about what to visit, culture, gastronomy and much more in the palm of your hand.

"Guernica" by Pablo Picasso Without doubt the most popular painting at Reina Sofia Museum is "Guernica", painted by Pablo Picasso (1881-1973). The Andalusian painter, opponent of all totalitarian regimes, made a criticism of the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) through the recreation of the German and Italian aerial bombardment that took place on the Basque town of Guernica: a ruthless attack that killed over 300 people and marked the recent history of Spain. Portrait of Picasso by Juan Gris (1912) Since the beginning of armed conflict, Guernica had been a priority for the fascist troops since the small town was an icon of the Basque culture and also had several weapons factories. On April 26, 1937 early in the afternoon, dozens of German and Italian aircraft bombed Guernica intensively, with particular damage in the historic center and the civilian population. After three hours of horrific bombings, the town was completely destroyed. The fire spread everywhere and people tried to find their relatives and friends. Fortunately, the city had a series of bunkers that prevented the number of victims was even higher. International journalists, who stayed in Bilbao, moved to Guernica and left written evidence of the brutal attack. Soon the news spread rapidly and Governments all over the world condemned this despicable act. Unwittingly Guernica had become an antiwar icon. In 1937 the Republican Government, which fought against the fascist troops, commissioned this painting to Pablo Picasso. During the early years the painting was exhibited in Paris with the intention of winning support for the Republican cause. Later the painting was moved to New York where it remained until 1981. For eleven years the Picasso's work was exhibited at the Cason del Buen Retiro in Madrid. Finally in 1992 this fantastic painting arrived at Reina Sofia Museum where was placed in a special room along with preliminary sketches of the painting and other works of the Andalusian painter. Madrid Express

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WHAT TO VISIT international conflicts and Useful Information social inequalities. However the Address: Plaza Canovas del Castillo Metro:  Banco de España Prices: Opening Hours: -

Canovas del Castillo Square This central square is dedicated to Canovas del Castillo, famous conservative politician who was assassinated by an anarchist in 1897

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his square, located on the Paseo del Prado, was built in the eighteenth century and was part of an ambitious plan, devised by Carlos III (1716-1788), to reform the eastern part of the Spanish Capital: the King wanted to give the city a wide boulevard where locals could enjoy a nice walk. Numerous trees were planted and important buildings were designed (Prado Museum, Buenavista Palace, Villahermosa Palace, The Royal Botanical Garden, etc.). This urban revolution of the city, unique in Europe, was completed with the placement of three sculptural groups: the Goddess Cybele, the God Apollo and Neptune. Today the square is full of cafes, luxury hotels, and international franchises becoming one of the busiest points of Madrid. Neptune Fountain Canovas del Castillo Square is dominated by an elegant neoclassical fountain (see picture above) which represents God Neptune on a chariot drawn by sea horses. This fountain was designed by Ventura Rodriguez in 1782. Neptune in his left hand is holding the powerful trident with which he whipped and stirred the seas. On the right arm is coiled a sea snake. The choice of Neptune by Carlos III was not casual. With this sculpture the King wanted to reinforce the feeling of union and improve relations with the Spanish colonies in America. Attention! Atletico de Madrid F.C. and hundreds of thousands of unconditional fans come to this fountain to celebrate when they win a title, creating traffic chaos in downtown: roads are closed by the police and players climb up the fountain to tie a team scarf around the neck of Neptune. Ritz Hotel During the nineteenth century the country was ravaged by wars, Madrid Express

beginning of the twentieth century marked the beginning of a new era: wide avenues were built, sumptuous buildings were designed, electrical installations in houses remarkably improved, trolleybus came into operation and foreign capital began to flow in the country. At the same time, the city began to receive foreign influences thanks in large part to the inauguration, twenty-five years earlier, of the rail service. Although Madrid began to experience an era of prosperity, the city still did not have a luxury hotel unlike other important European cities (Paris, London, Vienna, etc.). In view of this situation the King Alfonso XIII promoted the creation of a magnificent hotel that would put the city on a par with the major European capitals. The building was designed by the French architect Charles Frédéric Mewes between 1908 and Neptune: The God of the 1910. Once the hotel was Seas and Oceans built, the management Neptune, brother of God Jupiter, was was granted the famous one of the most powerful gods of hotelier Cesar Ritz. Greek and Roman mythology. When Ritz Hotel was In ancient mythology, the world was inaugurated, it was one of divided into three parts: sky (Jupiter), the most modern in the sea (Neptune) and underworld world and was equipped (Pluto). Neptune lived in a castle in with all the latest the depths of the ocean and his technological advances. trident could cause storms, huge For example there was a waves, floods and even earthquakes. phone next to the elevator Normally this dreaded god is on each floor, something represented as a muscular and never seen before. bearded man in a chariot drawn Sadly during the Spanish by sea horses and accompanied by Civil War (1936-1939) the his inseparable dolphins which show 158 hotel rooms were him the way. used as hospital to treat According to tradition, Neptune wounded soldiers. became infatuated with the beautiful Over the years Ritz Hotel, nymph Amphitrite, but she rejected one of the most luxurious him by his grotesque appearance in Europe, has hosted (beard, messy hair, etc.). However, members of Royal thanks to one of Neptune's dolphins, Families, politicians, the beautiful Amphitrite agreed to ambassadors, diplomats, marry him. Unfortunately, Neptune etc, becoming a symbol of and Amphitrite had no children. Madrid. Over the years, Neptune began an Amazingly enough, until extramarital relationship with very recently the hotel Medusa and had several hideous had a special admission children, Pegasus and Chrysaor. policy: customers had to

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WHAT TO VISIT wear tie and women could not wear pants. Likewise the hotel didn´t admit reservations for neither artists nor bullfighters. This company policy was always complied without execption. Westin Palace Hotel This wonderful hotel (468 Illustrious Guests at rooms) was opened in 1912, Ritz Hotel two years after the inauguration of Ritz Hotel, with the full support of The list of illustrious guests at Alfonso XIII who convinced Hotel Ritz is endless. Here are the Belgian businessman some of them: Heinrich Himmler, George Marquet to build a Head of Hitler´s SS Police, who new luxury hotel. Marquet, visited Spain in 1940 to improve who saw a great business the relationship between Spain opportunity in Madrid, liked and the Nazi Germany. Margaret the idea and construction Thatcher, Prime Minister of the works began shortly after. United Kingdom from 1979 to During the First World War 1990. King Khalid of Saudi Arabia Spain maintained a neutral (1975-1982). Fidel Castro, position which made the city communist revolutionary and flourish as bombs devastated former Prime Minister of Cuba. much of the European Vladimir Putin, current President continent. Ministers, of Russia. As you can see, this presidents, ambassadors, hotel played an important role in businessmen, etc. from many Spain´s relationships with other European countries took countries. refuge in Spain filling the rooms of the luxury hotels in Madrid, mainly Ritz Hotel and Westin Palace, the two best in the city. Even the legendary German spy Mata Hari stayed at the hotel a long period of time under a pseudonym. Westin Palace Hotel was considered one of the most avant-garde and cosmopolitan places in the city. In fact, “Madrileños” used to say that modernity entered Spain through the Westin Palace. All rooms had telephones, toilet and intercoms. The company had a careful policy of Human Resources, never seen before: there was a nursery room at the hotel where employees could leave their children while working. Unlike Hotel Ritz, closed to those who were not guests of the hotel, local people could enjoy the lovely cafeteria and the English-style bar. Furthermore, the cafeteria of the hotel was the first in Spain where Hotel Ritz women could drink coffee without being accompanied by a man. During the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) this luxurious hotel was turned into a hospital: the ground floor was converted into operating room where the wounded by the horrific fascist bombings were treated. When the attacks damaged the electrical service in the hotel, surgeons moved the operating room to the Salon de la Rotonda as the wonderful glass dome allowed natural light. At the same time, almost eight hundred beds were installed trying to give the best care in terrible conditions. The last major reform at the hotel was carried out in 1997 when the Royal Suite, a solarium, a gym and a wine cellar were built, improving exisitng facilities . The luxury of Westin Palace is so excessive that the guests have at their disposal a gold vending machine. Definitely this hotel is a unique place where you can enjoy a magical stay in Madrid surrounded by a part of the history of the city, of course if you can afford it as the price of the rooms is not exactly cheap. Did you know…? For a short period of time the first floor of the hotel was also used as the Official Embassy of the Soviet Union (1936). Madrid Express

Monument to the Fallen for Spain Near Canovas del Castillo Square you can visit a small obelisk that commemorates one of the most important days of recent History in Spain, the Second of May 1808. Spain was being humiliated by the troops of Napoleon Bonaparte, the King of Spain (Carlos IV) was forced to abdicate, went into exile and his throne was occupied by Jose Bonaparte (Napoleon´s brother). This tense situation was getting Obelisk commemorating 2nd May Heroes progressively worse: the Spanish aristocracy decided not to interfere in political affairs which could affect their business, the powerful Catholic Church washed their hands and remained silent, the brutality of the French army was terrible and the economic outlook was really bad. Everything blew up on May 2, 1808 when Napoleon's troops seized and imprisoned the last two members of the Spanish Royal Family: infants Francisco de Paula and Maria Luisa. The locals flocked to the gates of the Royal Palace to show their dissatisfaction with this decision and frustrate the expulsion of the infants from Madrid. The French General Murat commanded disperse the demonstration using artillery, causing countless deaths. They were not aware of it but the revolution had begun and the protests spread across squares, streets, and neighborhoods.“Madrileños” organized commands using knives, sticks, penknives and even stones. The General Murat, a bundle of nerves, decided to crush the revolt with an iron fist (see the painting “The Mamluks” by Francisco de Goya, Prado Museum). Contrary to what could be expected, “madrleños” rose again and tried to occupy a major French barracks (Monteleón). Late in the afternoon the French army had finally managed to quell the revolt and restore calm to the city but it was too late, these heroes, who died for their country, had started the Spanish War of Independence. Few day later clashes spread across the length and breadth the country.

“The Mameluks” by Francisco de Goya (Prado Museum)

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WHAT TO VISIT carried out by Useful Information Address: Calle Carrera de San Jeronimo S/N Metro:  Banco de España Prices: Free Admission Opening Hours: Saturdays from 10:30 to 12:30. Closed during the month of August. Attention: Personal Identification is required to access.

Spanish Parliament This imposing building houses the Spanish Parliament since the mid-19th century

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his neoclassical building was an initiative by Isabel II, Queen of Spain. Currently the Spanish Parliament holds 400 seats and is considered the heart of Spain, where major decisions are taken for the future of all citizens. From the architectural point of view, the columns, pediments and bronze lions are worthy of mention. The bronze used for the lions of the Congress came from the cannons of the Moroccan army which were brought to Spain by the end of the War of Africa (1859-1860). If you visit the Congress you can see several bullet holes in the ceiling, a reminder of the failed coup (1981) by Antonio Tejero who tried to prevent left-wing political parties coming to power. It was a very crucial moment for democracy in Spain as few years earlier (1978) the country had approved the Constitution, the law that rules the life of 47 million people in Spain. The original text of the Constitution, signed by the King Juan Carlos I, is preserved inside the Congress. If you visit the area on Wednesdays is completely normal to see many police cars, police officers on horseback, elegant official cars, deputies and TV cameras as the government control sessions are held every Wednesday. Very near the Parliament we can admire the peculiar Plus Ultra Building. this elegant French-style building was designed for a marquis who chose this exclusive area of the city to live. Construction works were

Joaquín López-Calvo Rojí in 1910, a time when Madrid was experiencing an economic explosion. Years later the building was purchased by the insurance company Groupama Seguros to convert it into offices. In 1993 it was installed a monumental carillon clock with popular figures of Madrid: Duchess of Alba, King Carlos III, Francisco de Goya, the bullfighter Pedro Romero and a woman dressed in folk costume. Every day at noon, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. dozens of people gather to enjoy the small show and take pictures. The carillon was made by the prestigious Royal Factory of Eijsbouts (Netherlands). In front of the Congress there is a small and charming square (Plaza de las Cortes) where it was placed a statue of Miguel de Cervantes (1835). During some preservation works in the twentieth century, a mysterious box was found in the basement of the statue. This strange box contained documents and books dedicated to the wonderful novelist and even gold coins. According to historians, this tradition was very common in the nineteenth century to commemorate the figure of a writer, artist , etc.

War of Africa (1859-1860) In the nineteenth century Europe experienced a brutal development and needed new territories to expand. The great superpowers such as England and France began the process of colonization of Africa in search of new raw materials and routes. Spain, gripped by an economic crisis and a fragile political situation, did not participate in this process. But the country´s international prestige was at stake, Spain was the only major European country whose presence in Africa was scarce. The War of Africa The War of Africa faced the Spanish army against the troops of Sultan of Morocco. For several years Moroccan rebel groups made incursions in Spanish cities in North Africa (Ceuta and Melilla) while the Moroccan government remained passive and did not condemn these actions. In view of this situation, the Spanish Authorities declared war and the military attacks began quickly. Six months later the Spanish army asserted its strength and crushed Moroccan troops. Consequences of the War of Africa On April 26, 1860 the Treaty of Wad-Ras ended the war. As compensation Morocco was required to pay one hundred million pesetas (600,000€) to Spain. Despite being a short war, it is estimated that approximately 10,000 soldiers died during the conflict. Spanish victory sparked a wave of patriotism throughout the country. However the economic benefits of this victory were really scarce.

Parliament Inside

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WHAT TO VISIT Useful Information Address: Metro:  Plaza España Prices: Opening Hours: -

Plaza España During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries this area of Madrid was occupied by a military barracks, used by Jose Bonaparte due to its proximity to the Royal Palace

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radually the city grew and urban density intensified traffic congestion in this area. Fortunately, in 1909 the project for the construction of a large square was approved thanks to the initiative of the government. However the current configuration of the square was carried out under Francisco Franco´s dictatorship: two of the most important skyscrapers in Europe were built in this square as an allegory of the power of the dictator (Torre Madrid 1957 and España Building 1953). Today Plaza España is a meeting point for locals and a must-visit for the hundreds of thousands of tourists visiting the city. At the same time, two of the main clogged streets of the city center converge at Plaza España: Princesa Street and Gran Via Street. if you walk up Princesa Street you will reach the district of Moncloa, where an important battle took place during the Spanish Civil War (19361939). España Building This building was designed between 1948 and 1953 and is 117 meters high (27 floors). Its construction was used as an icon of nationalism and national pride by the dictator, Francisco Franco. It was one of the tallest building in Madrid and was designed according to monumental proportions and equipped with every conceivable luxury. The huge building, today closed, might remind you of the great buildings designed by Josef Stalin in Moscow as a propaganda symbol as well. Until 2006 the building housed a shopping mall, offices, a hotel and luxury apartments. After being renovated, new appartaments and offices were designed. But the financial crisis erupted, so the building was completely closed until further notice. Without any doubt here we have one of the most bitter faces of the economical and financial crisis in Spain. Madrid Express

Madrid Tower This immense building, one of the symbols of Madrid, was built in 1957 and is 142 meters high (up to 1967 this tower was the tallest building in Europe). Construction works lasted three years (1954-1957) and were carried out by Machimbarrena Otamendi, architect of Basque origin. As a curiosity, the building was provided with the world's fastest elevators (3 meters per second). Unfortunately the building, once the financial epicenter of Madrid, is partly empty and just some apartments and offices are occupied. Cervantes Memorial In the center of the square there is a beautiful obelisk (1929) devoted to the novelist Miguel de Cervantes and his most important work "Don Quixote". At the base of the obelisk are represented some protagonists of this popular Spanish novel: Don Quixote, Sancho Panza, Dulcinea del Toboso and Aldonza Lorenzo. In front there is a beautiful pond that creates a pleasant sense of movement to the square,which is surrounded by huge buildings.

Miguel de Cervantes During the sixteenth and seventeenth century Spain experienced a true cultural revolution and became one of the major cultural epicentres in Europe. In parallel, a new generation of writers destined to make history emerged (Lope de Vega, Quevedo, Gongora, Miguel de Cervantes, etc.) taking Spanish Literature to a Golden Age. When Madrid became the Spanish capital (1561) numerous writers decided to settle in Madrid where the possibilities were infinitely greater: if you visit Barrio de Las Letras (Literary Quarter), you can see the house where Cervantes lived and died. Miguel de Cervantes was born (1547) in Alcala de Henares, a small town near Madrid. Economic difficulties forced the family to move several times (Cordoba, Sevilla and Valladolid). In 1569 Miguel de Cervantes was wanted by Spanish Authorities after participating in a duel and decided to take refuge in the Spanish possessions in Italy. At that time, Cervantes was an inveterate reader but he had not yet published any book. Shortly later, Cervantes decided to join the army seeking to increase his income. In 1571 he was recruited by the Spanish Army to participate in the Battle of Lepanto, a conflict between the Holy League and the Ottoman Empire in which Spain intended to maintain its hegemony in the Mediterranean Sea. During the battle, Cervantes was wounded in his left hand. When he was returning to Spain, the ship was hijacked by Barbary pirates who took him prisoner. After five years of captivity, Cervantes could return to Spain where he tried to get money to amend the dire economic situation of his family. During his last years of life, Cervantes worked as a tax collector. In 1605 he published the first part of his most famous novel, Don Quixote of La Mancha which allowed him to achieve fame and win some money. Finally in 1616 Cervantes died at his home in Madrid.

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WHAT TO VISIT Casa Gallardo (Address: Intersection between Plaza España and Ferraz Street) In one corner of Plaza España you can admire Casa Gallardo. This building was designed between 1909 and 1914 by the architect Federico Arias Rey and is one of the major works of Spanish modernism. Sun is reflected on the cream-colored façade and the top of the building is crowned with small dark domes and slate roof. Officially, the architect was Federico Arias Rey, but according to some documents the building was designed by the Italian Enrique F. Daverio Bara. A law forbade foreign architects to work in Spain. Here is the reason why the plans were signed by Federico Arias Rey. Today the building houses luxury apartments for businessmen. Asturiana Mining Company Building (Address: Plaza España 8) Asturiana Mining Company was a leading mining and metallurgical firm which operated in much of Europe and North Africa and brought huge profits to its shareholdres. In 1891 the company decided to design Asturiana Mining Company Building an elegant office building and apartments in an area of Madrid that aspired to become one of the most active in real estate transactions. Construction works were carried out by Manuel Martinez Angel and ended in 1899. The first two floors were built of stone and unburned brick, while on the third floor the building material used was slate. Unfortunately, Manuel Martinez Angel was murdererd right in front of the building by one of his pupils (he also worked as University professor). Today the building belongs to the Government of Madrid.

The temple is oriented to the West in honor of the God Ra (The Sun according to the Egyptian mythology). Classical religious texts say that Isis gave birth to her son Horus (The Time) in this temple. Surrounding the temple we can enjoy beautiful gardens (Parque del Oeste) where the locals come to stroll, rest, cycling while enjoying the magnificent views of Madrid. During the Spanish War of Independence (1808-1813), this small hill witnessed the shooting of Spanish revolutionaries committed by the French troops. The wonderful Spanish painter Francisco de Goya recreated,with great skill, these horrendous acts of barbarism rd carried out by Napoleon (“The Shooting of May 3 ”).

“The Shooting of May 3rd” (Prado Museum)

Tip: We recommend visiting the Temple of Debod late in the afternoon to see the sunset. The wonderful panoramic views of the Royal Palace and the Almudena Cathedral are absolutely amazing. On days with good visibility, you can even see the river (Manzanares River), Segovia Bridge (the first bridge in Madrid, built in 1584), Parque de Atracciones (Amusement Park), Casa de Campo (public park five times bigger than Central Park in New York) or Vicente Calderón Stadium (home of Atletico de Madrid).

The Temple of Debod Five hundred meters from Plaza España you can visit another mustsee in Madrid, The Temple of Debod, a monument of Egyptian origin which was moved to Madrid in 1970. This temple was donated by the Egyptian Government as gratitude to Spain for collaborating on a recovery mission to save several Egyptian temples in Nubia, which were endangered by the construction works carried out to build the Aswan Dam (1968). The temple was disassembled and transferred from Alexandria to Valencia by ship. Later from Valencia to Madrid the temple was transported by trucks. Once in Madrid the temple was rebuilt by a team of archaeologists. The temple was built in the second century BC by Pharaoh Azakheramon and is dedicated to the Egyptian God Amon. Special mention should be made of the following parts: Entrance Hall: Ornamental motifs dating back to Roman Times. Corridor: The Egyptian architects designed a sundial in this part. Terrace: In ancient times the priests held important ceremonies, including The Temple of Debod the New Year ritual. Madrid Express

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WHAT TO VISIT Useful Information Address: Avd Concha Espina 1 Metro:  Santiago Bernabéu Tour Prices: 19€ / Reduced 13€ Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday (10:00 to 19:00) / Sundays & bank holidays (10:30 to 18:30) Match Day: until 5 hours before the beginning of the game.

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium Real Madrid Stadium is located in Chamartin district and has capacity for 80,000 spectators.

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ccording to local Authorities Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is one of the most visited places by tourists along with the Prado Museum and the Royal Palace: it is quite usual to see a great number of tourist buses parked near the stadium and long queues of foreign tourists waiting to buy tickets. Real Madrid, founded in 1902, is the most popular and most glorious football team in the history of Spain and Europe. The team spends every year large sums of money in the most famous stars of world football. In 1998 FIFA declared Real Madrid as the best team of all the time. Real Madrid fans are called "merengues" (meringues) because of the white stripe on their uniforms. In addition to Real Madrid, in the Spanish capital there are also other football teams such as Atlético Madrid, Rayo Vallecano or Getafe but they have their own stadiums. The legendary rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona F.C.is renewed every season especially in Champions League. The matches between these two teams are broadcasted to a global audience, becoming very popular in Asia, mainly in China and Japan. The stadium was inaugurated in 1947. Previously there was a smaller capacity stadium, inaugurated in 1924. Sadly during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) the old stadium was used as a prison. Throughout the twentieth century the stadium has undergone numerous improvements works to make it more comfortable and modern. Today the stadium is fully adapted to new technologies (heating system, VIP areas, lifts, all seats have an 87% tilt, etc.). The stadium even has its own Metro Station (Line ) In 2007 UEFA gave Santiago Bernabéu the consideration of Five Star Stadium, a category which allows it to host major soccer events. Finally special mention should be made of the Santiago Bernabéu Madrid Express

Stadium Tour which allows fans to visit the bleachers, dressing rooms, trophy room, VIP areas, grass, Official Store, etc. Join the celebration! Each time Real Madrid wins a title, no matter whether a national or European title, their fans come to Cybele´s Fountain to celebrate. The downtown roads are blocked and the Authorities increase the police presence to prevent damage to street furniture. After the match the players join the celebration in Cybele´s Square until dawn. Without a doubt, fun is guaranteed!

Who was Santiago Bernabéu? Santiago Bernabéu was one of the biggest legends of Real Madrid during the twentieth century. Bernabéu, was born in a small town in Albacete (eastern Spain) in 1885. In the early twentieth century his parents, a wealthy lawyer and a Cuban woman, decided to move to Madrid, a city with ample opportunities for an ambitious First Real Madrid boy. Santiago Bernabéu had his first contact Shield (1902) with football playing in the school team when he was still a child. When he was a teenager he joined Real Madrid where he acquired deep sporting values. The years went by and Santiago Bernabéu started College and made ) his professional debut in the Spanish First Division (1913). During his time as a Real Madrid player Santiago Bernabéu was a strong and brave striker, scoring over 60 goals. In 1927 he retired and graduated as a lawyer. Immediately after retiring, Santiago Bernabéu joined Real Madrid as Executive, taking important decisions that changed the future of the world's best team. In 1936 Spanish Civil War broke out and Santiago Bernabéu, a member of a right-wing party, went to France and even fought on the frontline. After the war, he returned to Madrid and was named President of Real Madrid (1943). During his management the team entered a new dimension: the current stadium was designed, excellent players were recruited and finances were reorganized. As a result of this management, the team reached sporting success. For instance, during his Presidency (1943-1978) the team won 16 Spanish Championships, 6 European Cups and 1 Intercontinental Cup. Sadly in May 1978 Santiago Bernabeu passed away at his home in Alicante, causing a great commotion in the world of football and Madrid society.

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WHAT TO VISIT Useful Information Address: Calle Alcalá 237 Metro: Ventas Tour Prices: Free of Charge Opening Hours: March-Oct: Tuesday to Friday (09:30-14:30)/ Sundays & bank holidays 10:0013:00) Nov-Feb: Monday to Friday (09:30 to 14:30)

Las Ventas Bullring Bullfighting is possibly one of the most exciting spectacles in the world.

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upporters or not, bullfighting is a spectacle worth contemplating at least once in your life: a man and a beast of more than 500 kg fight for its life in a tragic “dance” where only one can come out alive. The bull is an animal closely linked to the Mediterranean culture. Over the centuries, in many parts of the Mediterranean basin have been held games and parties involving bulls (Greece, Southern France, Crete, Spain, Portugal, etc.). Culturally, bullfighting is part of the legacy of Spain. The great Spanish poet Federico Garcia Lorca, big fan of bullfighting, called it "authentic religious drama." Regardless of the cruelty of the show, bullfighting is an important generator of wealth in rural areas of southern Spain, providing jobs to thousands of people. At the same time, bullfighting has preserved the purity of the Spanish Fighting Bull, popularly known as “Toro de Lidia”. In early twentieth century bullfighting become more and more popular in Spain and the Government decided to build a new bullring much larger and modern which allowed cheaper tickets for fans. The old bullring was located near Alcala Gate, in downtown. st On October 21 1934, Las Ventas Bullring was inaugurated in Madrid with great expectation among locals and residents. The building was designed in Neo-Mudejar style (artistic style that blends Christian elements with Arab motives). Few years after the inauguration, the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) broke out with terrible consequences for the country: hunger spread along the city. Madrid was besieged and the people had to endure horrible conditions. During these years Las Ventas Bullring was used as a garden where people planted vegetables and fruits to stave off hunger. Fortunately, the war ended in 1939 and the country gradually returned to normal.

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Temple of Bullfighting Las Ventas Bullring is the biggest in Europe and third in the world after Mexico City and Valencia (Venezuela) where bullfights are very popular too. However experts consider that Las Ventas is the most important worldwide. All bullfighters dream of triumphing at Las Ventas and getting a standing ovation here. Others famous bullrings in Spain are La Maestranza in Seville, La Malagueta in Malaga or La Plaza de Toros in Valencia. Attention! Bullfights were banned in the Spanish region of Catalonia in 2010. However, they maintain local traditions as or even more dreadful than bullfights. For example the “correbous”, a tradition in which participants place two fireballs in the animals’ horns. This fantastic bullring has a capacity of 23,800 people (all seated) and modern systems that allow the evacuation of all spectators in just few minutes. Moreover visitors can enjoy a really interesting bullfighting museum, where is possible to admire an interesting collection of objects related to the world of bullfighting (capes, “banderillas”, bullfighter costumes or bulls' heads). Sporadically the bullring is also used as a concert venue and even for tennis matches, increasing revenue for the bullring managers.

Keys to understand Bullfights A bullfight is divided into three parts. The first two parts consist in weakening the forces of the bull and convince the public. In the last part, the bullfighter has to kill the animal what represents the most important moment of the show. Once the bullfight is finished the audience shows its enthusiasm and decides the prize for the “matador” by showing white handkerchiefs. The maximum prize for the “matador” is two ears and the tail of the bull. The bullfight season in Spain begins in March and ends in November. Some basic words you must learn before attending a bullfight: Picador: Man riding a horse. The picador jabs the bull with a lance. Banderilla: Small decorated harpoon which is stuck in the bull. Capote: Small cape with which the “matador” tries to trick the bull. Callejón: Corridor surrounding the arena where the bullfighter and his teams shelter. Burladero: Lifesaving barrier. Presidencia: V.I.P area occupied by the President of the bullring. Puerta Cuadrillas: Incoming door for bullfighters and their teams. Toriles: Place where bulls are kept right before the fight. Corrales: Bull pens.

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Culture

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CULTURE Welcome to Madrid, the most active and modern city in Spain! Despite what some people might think, cultural life in Madrid is comparable to cities as creative as Berlin, Copenhagen or Buenos Aires. Madrid is home to a wide range of cultural activities that make Madrid a unique and privileged city. In addition to fantastic musuems like Prado or Reina Sofia, we can also enjoy classical operas, prestigious wine tastings, musicals, gastronomic fairs, Rock concerts, exhibitions of Modern Art and a long etcetera. Especially at a time of economic crisis, the city is committed to culture. To make your stay in Madrid as enjoyable as possible, we offer you a special selection of the best of cultural life in Madrid.

Museums National Archaeological Museum This museum, founded in 1867 by Queen Isabel II, is one of the most visited in Madrid. The National Archaeological Museum was created at the express wish of the Queen, who wanted to provide Spain with a great museum where preserve, classify and exhibit the archaeological treasures of the vast history of Spain. Prehistory (Ground Floor) Pre-Roman Spain and Roman Hispania (First Floor) Numismatics and Muslim Spain (Mezzanine Floor) Egypt, Middle East , Ancient Greece, Medieval Christianity in Spain and Modern era (Second Floor) This museum, opened in 2014 after 3 years of reform, is equipped with interactive displays, multimedia guides, 3D projections, etc. making the visit that much interesting. Ivory Crucifix (11th century / room 27). This Crucifix was donated by the Kings of Leon to the Basilica of San Isidoro (León). According to archaeologists, it is the first sculptural representation of the body of Christ in Spain. In the lower part is represented Adan. th Pozo Moro (6 century / room 12) This tower-shaped tomb, found in the province of Albacete (East Spain), was used for the burial of a King or some important dignitary in the Iberian culture. The tomb is richly decorated with lions, figures, animals, etc. According to experts this tomb is the best preserved monument of the Iberian culture so far. Lady of Elche (5th century BC/ room 13) This beautiful sculpture is one of the icons of the Iberian culture in Spain. It depicts a high society woman, perhaps a priestess or a queen. According to the experts it was a polychrome sculpture and was used as a funerary Madrid Express

urn. The sculpture was found in Elche (Eastern Spain). Visigothic Crown (7th century/ room 23) This gold crown was found near Toledo (former capital of Spain during the Visigothic era) and is decorated with beautiful pearls and sapphires. This crown was part of a much larger treasure (Tesoro de Guarrazar) composed of six crowns and five crosses. Address: Calle de Serrano 13 Metro: Serrano Prices: General 3€ / Reduced: 1,5€ / Free Admission: Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning. Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: from 09:30 to 20:00. Sunday: from 09:30 to 15:00 Website: www.man.es

Prado Museum Prado Museum offers a wonderful journey through the history of painting, giving special attention to the best Spanish painters of all time (Francisco de Goya, Velazquez, Murillo, etc.). A must-see spot for all visitors. More information: see Golden Triangle of Art (see p. 32). Address: Calle Ruiz de Alarcón 23 Metro Station:  Banco de España Prices: General 14€/Reduced 7€/ Free Admission: Monday-Saturday (18:00 to 20:00) and Sundays (17:00 to 19:00). / Children Free Admission. Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday: from 10:00 to 20:00. Sundays from 10:00 to 19:00 Website: www.museodelprado.es/en/

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LAS MENINAS & VELÁZQUEZ Without any kind of doubt, we can say that Las Meninas (Prado Museum) by Diego de Velázquez is the most universal work in the history of Spanish painting. Many experts have tried to interpret this painting: there is a wide variety of versions, from complicated technical analysis to strange versions difficult to believe. However Diego de Velázquez took the secret of Las Meninas to his grave. Perhaps all this mystery surrounding the work of Velázquez renders it, even if possible, more attractive. Characters: Las Meninas shows a large room at the Royal Palace in Madrid, probably the studio of Velázquez who was the favorite King´s court painter. In fact Velázquez painted himself on the left part of the painting. In the middle we find the Infanta Margarita (daughter of King Felipe IV) accompanied by two maids of honour and others servants. At the moment when Las Meninas was painted, Infanta Margarita was the only child of King Felipe IV. This was a problem because at this time only males could inherit the Spanish throne. Unfortunately, Infanta Margarita died very young at the age of 21 in Vienna while giving birth to her fourth child. King Felipe IV and his wife Mariana de Austria are reflected in the mirror located in the background. King Felipe IV won´t go down in history for its glorious political decisions. In fact, his reign is remembered as one of the worst. But Felipe IV was a great lover of art; he collected paintings, sculptures, clocks, etc. Even many of the paintings that today we enjoy at Prado Museum belonged to his private collection. At the door we can see Jose Nieto Velázquez who worked as Royal Upholsterer at the Royal Palace. Many questions surround this character: Why Velázquez painted Jose Nieto? Is he entering or leaving the room? Why only the Kings can see him? Did you know…? When Velázquez painted Las Meninas, he was not yet member of the Order of Santiago (see the red cross in Velázquez´s chest). Someone added it later. According to some experts, it was Velázquez himself who added the red cross shortly before his death.

Tip: If you want to expand your knowledge about Velázquez, we recommend the book in English “The lives of Velázquez”, one of the most complete biographies ever written about the Spanish painter. The film “Alatriste”, starring by Vigo Mortensen, offers also a wonderful context to understand the seventeenth century in Spain.

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Order of Santiago: For a long time, Velázquez struggled to receive the Order of Santiago, a noble title which opened many doors and involved exclusive privileges, for example a substantial amount of money. King Felipe IV interceded and got the Order of Santiago for Velázquez in 1659, only one year before the painter passed away. The fateful day of Velázquez´s death: On August 6, 1660 Diego Velazquez passed away after seven long days of agony. Mysteriously one week later, his wife Juana Pacheco died too. Experts still do not know the exact causes that affected Velazquez´s family but according to the symptoms, it would very probably be a serious infectious disease. Velazquez and his wife were buried at San Juan Bautista Church (Ramales Square) which no longer exists. Unfortunately their mortal remains were never found. If you visit the square where the church was located, you will only find a small cross in memory of Velazquez (see picture).

Diego de Velazquez painted Las Meninas in 1656 for King Felipe IV, who was great lover of art and culture. At this time Madrid had approximately 125,000 inhabitants and Spain was plunged into a deep economic and territorial crisis.

Diego Velázquez Biography: (Seville 1591 - Madrid 1660). Baroque painter, considered one of the leading exponents of Spanish painting and one of the most renowned painters in the world. He spent his early years in Seville, where he developed a naturalistic style, influenced by Caravaggio (Old Woman Cooking Eggs, The Water Seller of Seville). When he was 24, Velazquez moved to Madrid, where he was appointed painter to King Felipe IV and four years later promoted to Official Chamber Painter, the most important position among the painters of the court. His job mainly consisted of painting portraits of the King and his family as well as other paintings to decorate the royal residences. His first trip to Italy allowed him to evolve and develop his style (The Forge of Vulcan and Joseph's coat). Years later he returned to Madrid with a special learning from Italian classics (The Surrender of Breda, Felipe IV on horseback). In 1649 he traveled again to Italy to buy old paintings and sculptures for the King (Portrait of Pope Innocent X). In June 1651 he returned to Madrid and the King appointed him Royal Chamberlain. According to experts in art history, his last 10 years were enormously successful (Las Meninas, or The Spinners).

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CULTURE National Museum of Natural Sciences The origin of the museum dates back from 1771, when King Carlos III bought a collection belonging to a Spanish merchant who resided in Guayaquil (Ecuador). During the nineteenth century the museum was located in different buildings throughout the city. Finally in 1910 the museum was moved to its current location in downtown. The Natural Museum of Natural Sciences has outstanding collections of mammals, minerals, fossils etc. worthy of the best museums in the World. One of the rooms houses a Megatherium Americanum, a creature similar to a huge bear that lived millions of years ago in the Americas. This amazing mammal was over 6 meters tall (almost 20 feet) and had bones as robust as an elephant. In the same room we can see a Glyptodon (a kind of giant armadillo) and a dinosaur skeleton replica really amazing. The African Elephant (Sudan) is other of the most popular pieces of the Museum. Besides all this, visitors can admire an amazing old Natural History Laboratory with fishes, lizards and snakes preserved in formalin. Address: Calle de Jose Gutierrez Abascal 2 Metro: Gregorio Marañon Prices: 6€ / Reduced 3€ Opening Hours: Tuesday-Friday: 10:00-17:00 / Saturdays: 10:00-20:00 (July & August: 10:0015:00) / Sundays & bank holidays: 10:00-17:00 / Mondays Closed Website: www.mncn.csic.es

Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando This building, built in the 18th Century, was previously an Academy where great geniuses like Salvador Dali or Picasso studied and completed their education. Today the museum houses a wonderful collection of art works from Tiziano and Raphael to El Greco or Rubens. One of the most important rooms of the museum is dedicated to the Spanish artist Francisco de Goya, former director of the Academy. Don´t miss the “Portrait of Manuel Godoy” or “The Madhouse”, two celebrated Goya´s paintings. Address: Calle Alcalá 13 Metro Station: Sol / Sevilla Prices: General 6€ / Reduced 3€ Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday: from 10:00 to 15:00 / Mondays Closed Website: www.realacademiadebellasasrtessanfernando.com

Royal Tapestry Factory

Thyssen Bornemisza Museum This museum houses the private collection of the Thyssen Family. Thanks to a partnership between Hans Heinrich (Baron Thyssen) and the Spanish Government, visitors and residents can enjoy one of the most interesting art collections in Europe. More information: see Golden Triangle of Art (see page 32) Address: Calle Santa Isabel 52 Metro Station: Banco de España Prices: General 10€/ Reduced 7€/ Children under the age of 12 Free Admission/ Monday from 12:00-16:00 Free Entrance for visitors. Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday: from 10:00 to 19:00. Monday closed (except from 12:00 to 16:00) Website: www.museothyssen.org/

During the eighteenth century, The Spanish Royal Family ordered the construction of different Royal Factories in Spain with the intention of boosting economy. Some of them were destroyed forever and others such as The Royal Tapestry Factory were fortunately preserved for centuries. Here visitors can admire hand-woven tapestries and carpets of exceptional artistic value. The famous painter Francisco de Goya worked for the Royal Tapestry Factory during seventeen years designing patterns for tapestries: some of these designs are exhibited at the Prado Museum and at The Royal Monastery of El Escorial. Currently, The Royal Tapestry Factory elaborates carpets and tapestries for special events and restores antique pieces. Address: Calle de Fuenterrabía 2 Metro Station: Atocha / Menendez Pelayo Prices: General 4€/ Reduced 3€ Opening Hours: Monday-Friday: from 10:00 to 14:00 Closed on weekends & holidays Website: www.realfabricadetapices.com/

National Museum of Anthropology

Tip: If you are a big fan of art, there is an economic way to visit all museums, monuments and attractions in Madrid! MadridCard gives you the chance to visit much of Madrid historical and cultural heritage at a reduced price: Adult 24 hours 45€ Adult 48 hours: 55€ Adult 72 hours: 65€ The benefits of this card don´t end here: priority access at the Prado Museum, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, Reina Sofia Museum, Royal Palace, Wax Museum and Bernabeu Stadium Tour. Discounts at restaurants, sightseeing tours, car rental, etc. More information: www.madridcard.com

This museum was inaugurated by King Alfonso XII in 1875, a time of profound change for the Spanish capital. Anthropology Museum of Anthropology lovers will see their dreams come true in this place. The museum tries to offer a closer look at diversity in the world around us, including interesting collections about Africa and Asia as well as incredible objects such as reduced skulls, tribal weapons, African jewelry or even a dissected man who was 2.35 meters high.

Naval Museum

Address: Calle Alfonso XII, 68 Metro Station: Atocha Prices: General 3€ / Reduced 1,5€ Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: from 09:30 to 20:00 Sundays & bank holidays: from 10:00 to 15:00/ Mondays Closed Website: mnantropologia.mcu.es

This building is located on Paseo del Prado, just 10 minutes’ walk from the Prado Museum, and it houses an extensive collection of objects related to the glorious Spanish Naval History. You should know that Spain dominated the seven seas during centuries. Unfortunately this did not translate into significant economic benefits and progress. Although the country received large

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CULTURE amounts of gold and commodities (diamonds, precious gems, wood, etc.) from America, the Royal Household, a parasitic nobility and wars consumed much of the budget. Without any doubt, the most valuable piece of the museum is the cartography of Juan de la Cosa (1500) which was designed to be shown to the Catholic Kings, Fernando and Isabel. This cartography includes the Americas for the first time in history. We also can find interesting collections that bring together a variety of objects, including figureheads, amphorae, compasses, astrolabes and even a beautiful collection of old ship models. Address: Paseo del Prado, 5 Metro Station: Banco de España Prices: 3€ Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday: from 10:00 to 19:00/ Mondays & holidays closed Website: www.armada.mde.es/

Address: Calle Doctor Esquerdo, 36 Metro Station:  Sainz de Baranda Prices: Free Entrance Opening Hours: Tuesday-Friday: from 10:00 to 17:30 / Satuday, Sunday & bank holidays: from 10:00 to 14:00 / Mondays closed Website: www.museocasadelamoneda.es

Reina Sofia Museum

Fernando Botero & Madrid Many tourists often inquire as to the meaning of these sculptures with strange proportions right in the middle of Madrid. To understand the context better, we have to talk about Fernando Botero and his relationship with Madrid, one of his favorite cities. Fernando Botero is probably the most famous and representative artist in Latin America (Colombia 1932). His works reflect all kinds of feelings and situations with a very personal style, (bulky or proportionally exaggerated sculptures and very small heads) “Woman with mirror (Colón Square) becoming an icon of contemporary art. In 2005 Botero gained international attention for his Abu Ghraib series, where the author made a formal complaint about the abuse of prisoners by U.S. troops during the Iraq War. Fernando Botero, deep lover of Madrid, gave three sculptures to the city: “Woman with mirror” (Colón Square), “Hand” (Paseo de la Castellana) and “Rape of Europa” (Barajas Airport). His sculptures not only decorate the streets of Madrid but also other major cities like New York, Medellin, Dubai or Shanghai. If you have the opportunity to visit Bogota (Colombia), don´t miss The Botero Museum where you can appreciate in greater depth the work of this wonderful artist.

Casa de la Moneda Museum This museum is located in one of the most exclusive areas of Madrid, the heart of Salamanca district. During the nineteenth century this area was occupied by bankers and wealthy families. It is for this reason that the buildings are so beautiful and richly ornamented. At the present, the neighborhood continues to be the epicenter of luxury and fashion in Madrid. Inside the museum visitors will make a fascinating journey through the History of money: since the use of salt to buy up to the implementation of the European currency. The museum has a notable coin collection: Ancient Greece, Roman Empire, Al-Andalus, etc. If you are a genuine lover of numismatics you should know that the collection of the museum includes Madrid Express

all kind of engraving tools to produce banknotes and other machinery necessary to develop coins. Curiously, the museum has an interesting collection of stamps and lottery. The lottery was introduced in Spain (1763) by King Carlos III to finance the war and cleaning up public finances. It is well worth a visit. In the museum shop you can satisfy your desires and buy exclusive collector coins, stamps, watches, etc.

The inauguration of the Museum of Modern Art (1992) significantly changed the cultural panorama in Madrid. Reina Sofia Museum is home to an extraordinary collection of modern art, including Salvador Dali, Miró, Picasso and a long etcetera. Do not miss the masterpiece of Pablo Ruiz Picasso, “El Guernica”, in which the Spanish painter makes a criticism of the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). More information: see Golden Triangle of Art page 32 Address: Calle de Santa Isabel 52 Metro Station: Atocha Prices: General 8€/ Reduced 4€ / Free Admission: Monday-Saturday (19:00-21:00) (except Tuesday) / Sunday (15:00-19:00) Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday: from 10:00 to 21:00/ Sundays: from 10:00 to 19:00 / Tuesdays Closed Website: www.museoreinasofia.es/

Cerralbo Museum This museum is unknown to many people in Madrid but it possesses an immense historic-artistic legacy, which well worth taking the time to discover. The mansion housing the current museum was built in the nineteenth century for the Marquis of Cerralbo who was a notable politician and historian. Over his lifetime, the Marquis of Cerralbo directed major archaeological excavations and became an influential art collector. According to experts, the Marquis of Cerralbo achieved one of the most important private collections in Europe. When the Marquis died (1922) he donated to the State his entire art collection and the Cerralbo Museum began to take shape (1944). The vast collection includes busts of the eighteenth century, ceramic from the Iberian Peninsula and ancient Mediterranean civilizations, paintings by great masters (Goya, Zurbarán, Alonso Cano, etc.) weapon collections, tapestries, antique furniture, etc. Strongly recommended! Address: Calle de Ventura Rodriguez, 17 Metro Station: Plaza España Prices: General 3€ / Reduced 1,5€ / Free Admission: Saturdays (14:00-15:00) Thursdays (17:00-20:00) & Sundays (10:00-15:00) Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: from 09:30 to 15:00 / Thursdays: from 17:00 to 20:00 / Sundays & bank holidays: from 10:00 to 15:00 / Mondays Closed Website: museocerralbo.mcu.es

Sorolla Museum This building belonged to Joaquín Sorolla (Valencia 1863 – Cercedilla 1923) and was used by the painter as a workshop until 1923 when Joaquin Sorolla passed away. After his death, the widow of the painter decided to transform the building into a museum.

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CULTURE The museum offers a spiritual journey through different styles of Joaquin Sorolla: from the famous Mediterranean beaches and landscapes to the wonderful portraits. At the same time, the rooms of the building have been preserved intact and, thank to this, we can still admire old furniture belonging to Sorolla and tools used by the “Walk on the Beach” Joaquín Sorolla painter. The attractiveness of (Sorolla Museum) the museum does not end here: we can also visit a charming garden designed by the painter himself, private rooms, sculptures, etc. Attention! If you are looking for “Children on the Beach”, one of the most famous paintings of Sorolla, you will have to visit the Prado Museum. Address: Calle General Martinez Campos 37 Metro Station:  Ruben Dario / Gregorio Marañon Prices: General 3€ / Reduced 1,5€ / Free Admission: Saturday (14:00-20:00) & Sundays (10:00-15:00) Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: from 09:30 to 20:00 / Sundays & bank holidays: from 10:00 to 15:00 / Mondays Closed Website: museosorolla.mcu.es

House-Museum Lope de Vega The history of Spanish literature would not be the same without Felix Lope de Vega y Carpio (Madrid 1562-1635). The building where Lope de Vega lived is located in the “Barrio de Las Letras” (Literary Quarter). The streets of this district were walked by the most famous writers and poets of all time. In fact a few meters ahead, we can see the house where Miguel de Cervantes, author of the most famous work of Spanish literature, “Don Quixote de la Mancha”, lived and died. Lope de Vega´s house, converted into a museum in 1935, perfectly recreates the daily life of the famous poet and playwright. The furniture was donated by the Museum of Decorative Arts and the books belonged to the National Library. Visits must be arranged in advanced (available in Spanish, English & French). Address: Calle Cervantes, 11 Metro Station:  Antón Martín Prices: Free Guided Tour (Spanish, English & French) Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday from 10:00 to 15:00 / Mondays Closed / Booking required (10 pers. max. per group) by calling (+34) 91 429 92 16 Email: [email protected]

Theatres Royal Theatre (Opera) The Royal Theatre is located in Oriente Square, right in front of the Royal Palace, an unbeatable spot for one of the leading Opera Theatres in Europe. In 1850, after thirty-two years of planning and construction, Queen Isabel II inaugurated the theatre with the representation of "La Favorita" by Gaetano Donizetti. Today, the theatre stages around seventeen opera titles per year, as well as two or three major ballets and several recitals. The building´s interior is really surprising: the orchestra is decorated in red and gold, creating a sumptuous atmosphere. On the sixth floor there is a nice cafeteria decorated with works on loan from Reina Sofia Museum. The second floor is occupied by a beautiful restaurant. In the past, this room housed the Ballroom, the place where the Queen held private parties. Madrid Express

After some improvement works in the late twentieth century, the total capacity is 1,750 spectator seats. The orchestra of the Royal Theatre is the Madrid Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Ivor Royal Theatre Bolton (British-born) who has worked in theatres of such renown as The Wiener Staatsoper (Wien) and The Sydney Opera House. Address: Plaza de Oriente S/N Metro Station:  Opera Prices: Guided Tour (approximate duration: 50 minutes): General 8€ / Reduced 6€ / Children under 7 years old: Free Admission Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday: from 10:30 to 13:00 (every 30 minutes) Tour Duration: 50 minutes Website & Tickets: www.teatro-real.com/

Tip: If you like Opera and you're under 30 years old, you're in luck! The Royal Theatre offers 90% discount if you buy your ticket from 4 hours before the beginning of the play (2 hours before If Sunday or Bank Holiday). This measure is designed to promote Opera among young people. Don´t miss the opportunity!

Gran Vía Theatres Gran Via Street, popularly known as the Spanish Broadway, has the largest concentration of theaters, cinemas, musicals and entertainment all over the country. Each week this well-known street is filled with thousands of fans who flock the cinemas to watch the latest Hollywood movies. A few lucky ones even get autographs from their idols at premieres. Since its inauguration in the early twentieth century, Gran Via Street has been fortunate to host a wide range of top-notch entertainment and events, including theaters, cinemas, musicals, ballets, “zarzuelas” (Spanish Opera) etcetera. Over the years, the country was evolving and Spanish tastes were changing. At the same time sound movies became popular and many theaters were converted into cinemas. During the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), Gran Via Street was a prime target for the enemy troops: bombs destroyed numerous buildings and the street was barricaded. Even in such a dramatic context, theaters and cinemas continued their usual programs. The Civil War finalized and the fascists came to power. The military dictatorship sadly imposed a strict censorship on all films and plays. Slowly, Gran Via became the epicenter of Spanish performing arts. All artists dreamed of triumphing in the theaters of this famous avenue and saved money to travel to Madrid and start his artistic career. At the same time, new shows began to emerge, revitalizing Madrid´s nightlife (cabarets, clubs, variety shows, etc.). In 1975 Franco´s dictatorship ended and Spanish society ushered in a new era: creativity surfaced on practically every corner of any street in Madrid, new bands emerged and directors and actors experienced new genres. With the advent of consumer society and the economic boom, huge multiplex cinemas began to be built on the outskirts,

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CULTURE weakening the hegemony of the old cinemas located on Gran Via Street. From this time on, the cinemas were gradually converted into theaters and only few of them survived. Finally, we cannot ignore the revival of Musicals that today enliven again the most popular street in Spain.

GRAN VIA THEATERS

Teatro Alfil Address: Calle del Pez s / n Telephone Number: 915214541 Website: www.teatroalfil.es/ Teatro Caser Calderón Address: Calle de Atocha 18 Telephone Number: 902006617 Website: www.teatrocalderon.com/

Príncipe Gran Vía Address: Calle Tres Cruces, 8 Telephone Number: 915218381 Website: www.teatrosgrupomarquina.es

Teatro de la Abadía Address: Calle Fernández de los Ríos 42 Telephone Number: 914481181 Website: www.teatroabadia.com

Teatro Compac Gran Vía Address: Calle Gran Vía, 66 Telephone Number: 915415569 Website: www.gruposmedia.com/

Teatro de la Comedia Address: Calle del Príncipe 14 Telephone Number: 915214931 Website: -

Teatro Coliseum Address: Calle Gran Vía, 78 Telephone Number: 915423035 Website: -

Teatro Lope de Vega

Teatro Español Address: Calle del Príncipe 25 Telephone Number: 913896335 Website: www.teatroespanol.es

Address: Calle Gran Vía 57 Telephone Number: 915472011 Website: www.teatrolopedevega.org/

Teatro de la Latina Address: Plaza de la Cebada 2 Telephone Number: 913652835 Website: www.teatrolalatina.es/

“Corralas”: Public Theaters This type of building started becoming popular during the sixteenth century, especially in humble neighborhoods like Lavapies (old Jewish Quarter) or Malasaña. The origin of these buildings lies in the need to find a decent and convenient place to accommodate the huge number of immigrants who came to work to Madrid. Don´t forget that shortly before, Madrid had been named capital of Spain by King Felipe II (1561). “Corralas” consisted of a series of apartments organized around a small central courtyard where much of the public life of tenants took place: neighbors placed chairs in the courtyard and chatted softly among themselves until midnight. Apartments were really small, no more than 30 square meters, and had no bathroom or potable water. When people wanted to obtain water or use the bathroom, they had to go to the courtyard where there was a small communal bathroom and a well with fresh water. Over the years, some of these buildings were converted into scenarios where acclaimed plays were represented. Something very similar happened in England where popular plays were represented in outdoor theaters (Elizabethan Theater). These early theaters played an important role in the development of the “Golden Age of Spanish Literature” (sixteenth and seventeenth century). Gradually, the popularity of these buildings was growing and the local authorities approved the construction of more “corralas”. Sadly with the passing of years, the vast majority of “corralas” were abandoned or destroyed to build modern apartments. If you want to visit an genuine Madrid “Corrala”, you can go to Street Meson de Paredes 79 where a “Corrala” has been restored and is perfectly visible from the outside.

Downtown Theatres Although Gran Via Street concentrates much of the most important theaters of the capital, the cultural offer is much larger, making Madrid a paradise for those who love Theatre. Some of the most popular theaters located in downtown are: Madrid Express

Teatro Cofidis Address: Calle Alcalá 20 Telephone Number: 915320616 Website: www.teatrocofidis.com

Teatro Nuevo Apolo Address: Plaza Tirso de Molina 1 Telephone Number: 913690637 Website: www.summummusic.com Teatro Pavón (National Classical Theatre Company) Address: Calle Embajadores 9 Telephone Number: 915396443 Website: www.teatroclasico.mcu.es/ Teatro Reina Victoria Address: Calle Carrera de San Jerónimo 24 Telephone Number: 913692288 Website: www.teatrovictoria.net/ Teatro Maravillas Address: Calle Manuela Malasaña, 6 Telephone Number: 914468405 Website: www.teatromaravillas.com/

Theater Tickets The price of theater tickets is not outrageously expensive considering the cost of living in Spain. The prices range from about 15€ to 30€ depending on the theater, the actors or the popularity of the plays. Normally the middle-aged people purchase tickets in person at the box office. However, young people prefer the Internet (www.atrapalo.com / www.entradas.com ) where they can find great discounts. Some theaters offer the possibility to purchase tickets by phone. Attention! Some theaters do not accept credit cards when purchasing at the box office. Anyway there are plenty of ATM´s where you can draw money.

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CULTURE Music Each year Madrid hosts major concerts, classical music concerts, Flamenco festivals, etc. The biggest stars of world music scene have delighted their audience in Madrid (Rolling Stones, Cold Play, Black Eyes Peas, Bruce Springsteen, etc.), a city famous for its passion. Generally these events are held in large stadiums like Vicente Calderon Stadium, Las Ventas Bullring or the Sport Palace. However, parallel to these concerts, the city is full of live music venues, making more dynamic, if possible, the nightlife in Madrid. As if this weren´t enough, we strongly recommend you not to miss two of most genuinely Spanish artistic expressions: Flamenco, a style that erupts from the depths of the soul and Zarzuela, a musical style similar to the Opera that was born in Madrid in the seventeenth century.

Live Music Venues Jazz: Café Central Address: Plaza del Ángel 10 Metro:  Sol Berlin Jazz Café Address: Calle Jacometrezo 4 Metro:  Callao Café Jazz Populart Address: Calle Huertas 22 Metro:  Sol Sala Clamores Address: Calle Alburquerque 14 Metro:  Bilbao

Miscellaneous: La Boca del Lobo Address: Calle Echegaray 11 Metro:  Sol Orange Café Address: Calle Serrano Jover 5 Metro:  Argüelles Joy Eslava Address: Calle Arenal 11 Metro:  Sol / Opera Galileo Galilei Address: Calle Galileo 100 Metro: Canal Sala Arena Address: Calle Princesa 1 Metro:  Plaza España

Alternative Music: Siroco Address: Calle San Dimas 3 Metro: Noviciado Marula Cafe Address: Calle Caños Viejos 3 Metro:  La Latina

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Flamenco Your visit to Spain will never be complete unless you let yourself be seduced by Flamenco. It is believed that the Flamenco genre emerged in the late eighteenth century in cities and agricultural villages of Andalusia (South Spain). Thanks to the efforts of the Government, in November 2010 Flamenco was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This is what UNESCO says about Flamenco: “Flamenco is an artistic expression fusing song (“cante”), dance (“baile”) and musicianship (“toque”). Andalusia in southern Spain is the heartland of Flamenco, although it also has roots in regions such as Murcia and Extremadura. “Cante” is the vocal expression of Flamenco, sung by men and women, preferably seated, with no backing singers. The gamut of feelings and states of mind – grief, joy, tragedy, rejoicing and fear – can be expressed through sincere, expressive lyrics characterized by brevity and simplicity. “Baile Flamenco” is a dance of passion, courtship, expressing a wide range of situations ranging from sadness to joy. The technique is complex, differing depending on whether the performer is male (heavier use of the feet) or female (gentler, more sensual movements). “Toque” or the art of guitar playing has long surpassed its original role as accompaniment. Other instruments, including castanets, hand-clapping and foot-stamping are also employed. Flamenco is performed during religious festivals, rituals, church ceremonies and at private celebrations. It is the badge of identity of numerous communities and groups, in particular the “Gitano” (Roma) ethnic community, which has played an essential role in its development. Transmission occurs through dynasties, families, social groups and Flamenco clubs, all of which play a key role in its preservation and dissemination”. The endless variety of cultural venues in Madrid allows visitors to enjoy great Flamenco shows in the heart of the city. Although the prices are sometimes a little bit expensive, you will have an unforgettable experience.

FLAMENCO VENUES IN MADRID (“TABLAOS”) El Corral de la Morería Address Calle Morería 17 Website: www.corraldelamoreria.com Price: From 50€ (21% V.A.T. included) Metro:  Opera Casa Patas Address: Calle Cañizares 10 Website: www.casapatas.com Price: From 36€ (21% V.A.T. included) Metro:  Antón Martin Café Chinitas Address: Calle Torija, 7 Website: www.chinitas.com Price: From 28€ (21% V.A.T. included) Metro:  Plaza España /  Santo Domingo Tablao Villa Rosa Address: Plaza de Santa Ana, 15 Website: www.villa-rosa.es Price: From 32€ (21% V.A.T. included) Metro:  Sol Torres Bermejas Address: Calle Mesonero Romanos, 11 Website: www.torresbermejas.com Price: From 39€ (21% V.A.T. included) Metro:  Gran Vía /  Callao /  Sol

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CULTURE Modern Architecture Tip: If you want to learn more about the world of Flamenco, we recommend a visit to El Flamenco Vive. In this little shop you will find all kinds of accessories (flamenco dresses, dance shoes, shawls, instruments, etc.) as well as an extensive collection of books and records of the best flamenco artists. Address: Calle Conde de Lemos 7 Website: www.elflamencovive.com Metro:  Sol /  Opera The tour Company OgoTours offers a great Flamenco Tour in which you will discover the origins of flamenco and interesting stories about this musical genre. The price (40€) includes a flamenco show in one of the best “Tablaos” in Madrid. More info www.ogotours.com

Zarzuela Zarzuela, direct descendant of Italian Opera, was born in Spain during the seventeenth century. Shortly after, the new musical genre spread to South America (mainly Cuba and Venezuela) and the Philippines (former Spanish colony) where it was very well received by local people. Initially, Zarzuela was the favorite theatrical genre of the Spanish Royal Family but when the Bourbon dynasty came to power in Spain (eighteenth century), Zarzuela ceased to be the Royal Genre and was replaced by the Italian Opera. After some conflicts with Italian ministers in Spain, there was a revival of popular patriotic feeling and Zarzuela returned to the theaters. Zarzuela quickly spread all over the districts in Madrid and people sang the catchy songs everywhere. The heyday of Zarzuela took place during the nineteenth and twentieth century when it became an extremely popular musical style among “madrileños”. One of the most famous Zarzuelas in Madrid is called “La Revoltosa” written by Ruperto Chapi. Other famous Zarzuela composers are: Federico Chueca, Tomas Breton, Amadeo Vives or Fernandez Caballero. If you are interested in discovering this unique musical genre, visit the Teatro de la Zarzuela (Zarzuela Theatre) (Address: Calle Jovellanos 4 / Metro:  Sevilla).

“Chotis” “Chotis” is the typical dance of Madrid but what many people don´t know is that originally this dance comes from Central Europe (Austria, Germany, Bohemia and Poland). During the nineteenth century this dance (called “Schottisch”) became enormously popular among working-class and rural people in Central Europe. Later, this dance came to important cities like Vienna. On 3 November 1850 Queen Isabel II, avid music lover and one of the main promoters of the Royal Theatre in Madrid, organized a party at the Royal Palace. During the feast, the musicians played for the first time in Spain a “Schottisch”. Amazingly enough, this dance touched the heart of many “madirleños” who adopted it as their own. But they made some changes: “Schottisch” was renamed as “Chotis”, easier to pronounce for Spanish speakers and a special barrel organ was introduced. “Chotis” is relatively easy to dance but you have to follow some rules. Normally it is a partner dance; man turns around his center axis and woman turns around man. At one point, the music changes and the couple takes three steps back and three steps forward. Then the couple begins to turn again. Traditional Madrid Costume

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Since the mid-twentieth century, Madrid has been at the forefront of European architecture. Major Banks and international companies hired the best architects of the moment to build their offices, making of Madrid one of the most active financial centers of the continent. Picasso Tower (157 meters) Until the inauguration of the new financial center (CTBC), Picasso Tower was the tallest building in the city and a symbol of the economic power of the Spanish capital. The building was designed between 1974 and 1986 and was one of the first intelligent buildings in Europe: every little aspect of the building was Picasso Tower controlled using a central computer, something really amazing for that time. Recently the building has been acquired by Pontegadea Real Estate, owned by Amancio Ortega, founder of ZARA emporium and one of the richest men in the world. Address: Ruiz Picasso Square Metro:  Nuevos Ministerios /  Santiago Bernabéu Europe Tower (120 meters) Impressive skyscraper located in the financial district, between General Perón Street and Paseo de la Castellana, right in front of Santiago Bernabeu Stadium (Real Madrid). The building was designed in 1985 by Miguel Oriol e Ibarra. During weekdays the building is a hive of business activity. However during the weekends the area is quite popular among young people as there are many pubs and nightclubs around here. Historical note: In 2002 the Basque terrorist group ETA tried to cause a slaughter placing a car bomb near Europe Tower coinciding with a Real Madrid- Barcelona F.C. match. Luckily there was only material damage. Address: Paseo de la Castellana 95 Metro:  Santiago Bernabéu /  Nuevos Ministerios Puerta Europa Buildings (114 meters) Puerta Europa Buildings are a symbol of the capital and a fundamental part of the skyline of Madrid. The towers, inaugurated in 1996, were designed by American architects (Philip Johnson and John Puerta Europa Burgee). Each building is 114 m tall with an inclination of 15°, making them the first inclined skyscrapers in the world. With this inclination the architects tried to symbolize a gateway to Madrid. Address: Plaza de Castilla Square Metro:  Plaza Castilla

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CULTURE Bankia Tower (248 meters) This immense building, one of the highest in Europe, was designed by Norman Foster and inaugurated in 2009. Apparently, the building seems to be divided into three blocks which creates a sensation of movement. The structure was designed in steel and the facade is covered with glass and stainless steel. Address: Cuatro Torres Business Area (CTBC) Metro:  Begoña Crystal Tower (249 meters) Wonderful building designed by Cesar Pelli, creator of Petronas Towers (Malaysia). The Bankia Tower building has a square base that turns into an oval as it goes up, creating a beautiful effect that resembles a diamond. The skyscraper houses offices since its inauguration in 2009. As a side note, there is a nice vertical garden with more than 20,000 plants. Address: Cuatro Torres Business Area (CTBC) Metro:  Begoña Space Tower (230 meters) The building, designed by Henry N. Cobb, houses offices and is equipped with all services and facilities you can imagine: restaurant, car wash, gym, etc. The whole facade is covered with glass. Address: Cuatro Torres Business Area (CTBC) Metro:  Begoña PwC Tower (236 meters) This beautiful building houses offices and a wonderful 5-star hotel with the best views of the city. The skyscraper was designed by the Spanish Architects Carlos Rubio Carvajal and Enrique Álvarez Sala Walter. As a curious fact, the tallest hotel in Europe, Gran Hotel Bali, is located also in Spain, to be exact in Benidorm (Alicante). Address: Cuatro Torres Business Area (CTBC) Metro: Begoña

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Holy Week in Madrid If you visit Madrid during Holy Week (“Semana Santa”), you will discover one of the most emotive celebrations in Spain. Although the Spanish Constitution provides that Spain is a secular country, religion is lived in a very inte nse way. For centuries, the Catholic Church had great influence in the country, what sometimes led to serious social conflicts. You must not forget the Church of San Isidro enormous power of the Spanish Church Inquisition, which was abolished in 1834 by Queen María Victoria. Today the Catholic Church still has some power in certain areas (eg, the Catholic Church enjoys some tax exemptions), which is difficult to imagine in other European countries. During Holy Week, churches across the country are decked out and the polychrome wooden sculptures are decorated with candles, colorful flowers etc. to take part in the processions (“procesiones”) along with thousands of devotees. Usually these processions are accompanied by music bands and "nazarenos" (men dressed in long robes, whose faces are covered by a veil draped over a tall cone shaped hat, known as “capirote”). “Costaleros” are other main protagonists in this emblematic celebration. They carry the weight of the float ("pasos") on their shoulders and neck. You can imagine the great physical conditions required to support a weight of approximately 50-100 kilos per person during several hours. The most important processions take place on Holy Thursday and Good Friday and commemorate the death of Jesus. Finally, on Easter Sunday hundreds of people gather in Plaza Mayor Square to beat drums and bass drums ("tamborrada"). The celebration of Holy Week also has its influence on food. On Good Friday “madrileños” eat a delicious stew of chickpeas with cod (“potaje”). Other typical dishes during Holy Week are “Soldaditos de Pavia” (crunchy pieces of battered cod) and “torrijas” (typical sweets).

Popular Processions in Madrid: Cristo de la Fe y el Perdón (Palm Sunday) Address: Basílica Pontificia de San Miguel Metro:  Sol / Opera / Tirso de Molina Nuestro Padre Jesús del Gran Poder y María Santísima de la Esperanza Macarena (Holy Thursday) Address: Real Colegiata de San Isidro (Church of San Isidro) Metro: Tirso de Molina /  La Latina PwC Tower

Jesús Nazareno de Medinaceli (Good Friday) Address: Iglesia-Basílica de Nuestro Padre Jesús de Medinaceli de los PP Capuchinos Metro: Atocha / Antón Martín

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Gastro nomy

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GASTRONOMY

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pain can be considered as a gastronomic paradise for culinary lovers. The Mediterranean diet is varied and very beneficial for health thanks to the high consumption of vegetables, fruits and fish. In many regions fish is the major protagonist of the local cuisine. In fact, Spain is the second country in the world with higher consumption of fish, topped only by Japan. In addition, the country boasts some of the best chefs in the world who impulse many of the new trends in gastronomy all around the world. Madrid's cuisine is diverse and brings together different and multiple influences, especially from the north and south of Spain. Winter is cold in Madrid and thus gastronomy is influenced by northern dishes as “Cocido Madrileño” (chickpea stew), “Callos a la madrileña” (tripe stew) and others fatty stews. During the summer, temperatures rise and the diet is much lighter to withstand the heat (influence of southern regions): salads, lots of fruit, cold soups and vegetables. The most representative dishes of Madrid are: “Cocido Madrileño” (Chickpea stew) It´s a traditional chickpea stew very popular during the winter when cold intensifies. The main ingredients of “cocido” are: chickpeas, vegetables (potatoes, cabbage, carrots, and turnips. In some cases, green bean, mangold and cardoon are also added) and finally meat such as pork, pork belly, beef, chicken, “chorizo” (Spanish sausage) and onion “morcilla” (blood sausage). Tradition states that the ingredients of “cocido” must be served separately: first, soup with noodles then chickpeas and vegetables and finally meat. This dish is highly caloric and helps combat the intense cold – It is not for dieters! Some of the best places in the city to enjoy a genuine “cocido madrileño” are: La Bola (Address: Calle Bola 5 / www.labola.es). Restaurant Lhardy (Address: Calle Carrera San Jerónimo, 8 / www.lhardy.com) or Malacatín (Address: Calle de la Ruda, 5 / www.malacatin.com) “Callos a la Madrileña” (Traditional Tripe Stew) It is a traditional Spanish stew, originating from Asturias (North Spain), which includes a wide variety of ingredients: beef tripe, pig's foot or ox tail, sausages, blood sausages (optional), beef stock, vegetables, chickpeas, onions, garlic, tomatoes, chili and even bell peppers or carrots. This dish is characterized by the strong smell while it is being cooked. Despite what many people may think, this dish is not highly caloric as tripe is rich in gelatin and has little fat. “Bocadillo de Calamares” (Squid Sandwiches) Squid sandwich is a culinary specialty in Madrid and is considered as a typical fast food for the locals. Squids are coated with flour and fried in very hot oil. Some “madrileños” add a bit of mayonnaise or lemon drops to their sandwiches while drinking a cold beer. We recommend not adding more sauces, such as ketchup or mustard that can ruin the flavor of this great sandwich. The best places in Madrid for a squid sandwich are

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Bar El Brillante

located near Plaza Mayor: “Bar La Campana” (Address: Calle Botoneras 6) or “Bar La Ideal” (Address: Calle Botoneras 4). Near Atocha Train Station you can find another bar which is famous for its squid sandwiches, “Bar El Brillante” (Address: Plaza del Emperador Carlos V, 8) “Jamón” (Spanish Ham) You cannot visit Spain and not try the Spanish Ham, one of the most exquisite products of the Spanish Gastronomy. The hind legs of pork are cured for months in special places with certain lighting conditions and optimum moisture. The result is an extremely tasty and juicy meat, highly appreciated by Spanish people and foreigners. Despite its price, it is very popular in Spain, especially at Christmas when even some companies give away a Spanish Ham to their employees. The “Roll Royce” of hams can be quickly identified by its intense red meat and thin veins of excellent fat. This great meat is a result of feeding pigs naturally. These delicious hams are known as “Jamon de Bellota”. One of the best places in Madrid to try this delicacy is “Museo del Jamón”, literally “The Ham Museum”. The variety is truly amazing and at prices to suit every pocket. In addition, they have also an economic restaurant, ideal to recharge your batteries after a day of sightseeing (address: Calle Carrera de San Jerónimo 1 / Calle Gran Via 72 & Calle Cava de San Miguel 11 / www.museodeljamon.es/madrid/).

Museo del Jamón

“Tortilla de Patatas” (Spanish Omelette) It´s maybe one of the most popular dishes in Spain. “Tortilla de Patatas” is characterized by its softness and texture. There is no bar in Madrid that does not offer this famous icon of Spanish gastronomy. Ingredients to cook a genuine Spanish Omelette: eggs and potatoes fried in olive oil (onions and peppers can be added too). Chronicles say that this dish was born in Navarre (North Spain) in the nineteenth century. During the Carlist Wars (1833 to 1876), the last major civil war for the throne in Europe, General Tomas Zumalacárregui created the Spanish Omelette as an easy, fast and nutritious way to feed his troops. From there, the Spanish Omelette was spread throughout the country. Bar Cerveriz (Plaza San Miguel, 2) offers one of the best “Tortillas de Patatas” in Madrid. “Tapas” Tapa in Spanish means "small portion of food served with the drink”. This custom was born in Andalusia (South Spain) in the 19th century and today is a social event in Spain: friends, coworkers or family members gather for a snack in packed bars right before lunch or dinner. These typical tapas range from olives or chips to small tasting dishes that blend tradition with modernity. Some of the most common tapas are: “morcilla” (blood sausage), cheese, ham, “Patatas Bravas” (potatoes topped with spicy sauce), croquettes, prawns, “lacón” (pork shoulder), “ensaladilla rusa” (Spanish potato

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salad), “patatas alioli” (potatoes in garlic mayonnaise), Spanish Omelette, marinated olives, almonds, meatballs, “Manchego” cheese, mussels, pork ear, “pinchitos” (marinated pork skewers), grilled cuttlefish, squids, etc. The list can be endless and depends on the imagination and creativity of the bar or restaurant. Sometimes when you order a drink, they offer a free tapa as a courtesy. Normally, these snacks are eaten standing at the Fried Cod at Casa Labra bar, not sitting. Some “madrileños” still preserve an old “curious” habit when eating out: clients throw napkins or scraps of food (olive pits or shells) to the floor. Sporadically, the waiters clean the trash while people continue with this "tradition". This behavior, apparently unhealthy, has its explanation. In the past, people knew when a bar was good and offered quality tapas if the floor was plenty of napkins or scraps of food. So customers threw their napkins to the floor in gratitude for good tapas and wine. “Huevos Rotos” (Fried eggs with French fries) This popular dish is made with just three simple ingredients: freerange eggs, potatoes and olive oil. All of them masterfully combined. In the past, this dish was very popular among the poorer classes in Madrid. The Spanish genius Diego Velázquez painted in 1618 an old poor woman while she was frying eggs to prepare this dish (“Old Woman Cooking Eggs” National Gallery of Scotland, Edinburgh, United Kingdom). Over the years this dish made the leap from poor neighborhoods to the most avant-garde restaurants in Madrid. There is a place where this dish has become the restaurant´s specialty. We are referring, of course, to Casa Lucio (address: Calle Cava Baja 35). The walls are decorated with pictures of celebrities who have been here: King of Spain, Eva Longoria, Nicolas Sarkozy, Will Smith, Bill Clinton, etc. “Sangria” Don´t leave Madrid without trying the famous “sangria”, a refreshing drink of Spanish origin that is consumed in Spain and Portugal since the 19th century. Ingredients used to make traditional “sangria” are: red wine, sugar or syrup, orange and lemon juice, chopped fruit (peach, apple, pear, etc.), cinnamon, orange soda, vermouth and spirits such as brandy. It is important to leave the fruits macerating with the wine for 2 or 3 hours. In this way, flavors, scents and colors harmoniously blend together. Thanks to the Spanish immigration to Argentina during the early twentieth century, this drink is also very popular in certain South American countries, especially in Argentina, Venezuela and Cuba. “Caña” (Beer) Probably, you will see this word written in the vast majority of bars and taverns in Spain. "Caña" simply means draft beer served in a small glass with capacity of about 20 cl. This is, no doubt, the most popular way to drink beer in Spain. Although beer is not the favorite drink among Spaniards (they are passionate about wine), is also very popular, especially among young people. Spanish beer is characterized by its strong flavor, bitterer than German or Czech beers. “Mahou” is the beer par excellence in Madrid. Every single day, “madrileños” consume thousands and thousands of liters of this popular beer either in bars or at home. In addition, “Mahou” is the official beer sponsor of Atlético de Madrid, one of the most popular football teams in Spain after Real Madrid and Barcelona F.C. Others popular beer brands in Madrid are: Cruzcampo, Aguila Amstel, Estrella de Galicia or Alhambra.

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GASTRONOMY Spanish Olive Oil If there is a product that defines the Mediterranean cuisine is, without doubt, the olive oil: in every bar, restaurant, tavern, supermarket, etc. you will find a wide variety of olive oils at a good price. The climatology and soil conditions make Spain the world's largest producer of olive oil (30%). Other major producers of olive oil are Italy, Greece, Morocco, Tunisia, Turkey and Portugal. Besides being an eminently producer country, Spain is the country that consume more liters of olive oil per year in the world. If this were not enough, experts consider that the Spanish olive oil is the best in the world thanks to its intense flavor and aroma. Seize this unique opportunity and enjoy the Spanish olive oils. “Chocolate con churros” (Chocolate & Spanish Fritters) Eating chocolate & fritters is one of the most typical traditions in Madrid, especially during fall and winter when temperatures drop. You can choose between two types of fritters: “churros” (loop shape) and “porras” (longer and thicker). Apparently “churros” are ridged due to having been piped from a “churrera”, a syringe with a star-shaped nozzle. “Churros” are fried until they get crunchy. If you want, fritters can be sprinkled with sugar. Usually “churros” and “porras” are eaten for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, popularly known as “merienda”, and dipped in hot chocolate or coffee. The most popular place in the city center to eat “Chocolate con Churros” is “Chocolateria San Gines” (Address: Passage of San Ginés 5) located 5 minutes from Puerta del Sol. Croissants Despite what many people think, croissants don´t come from France! The croissant was born in the seventeenth century in Vienna. In 1683 the Austrian city was being besieged by the Turkish army. After several months, the Turks withdrew and the Austrians claimed victory. To celebrate the end of the siege, the King of Austria organized a great feast in his residence. Palace bakers made a pastry in the shape of the crescents they had seen on the battle standards of the enemy. That is the way this delicious curvedshaped bread was born. Interestingly, the croissant (cruasán in Spanish) came to Spain and became very popular in Madrid. In fact today it is one of the favorite choices for locals when they go out for breakfast. The traditional way to eat a croissant in Madrid is grilled and served with butter and jam. Yummy! Where to find a good croissant in Madrid? There are many places, but we would like to recommend you our favorites: Harina (address: Plaza de la Independencia, 10), Viena la Crem (address: Calle Santa Brígida, 6), Isabela Gourmet Market (address: Paseo de la Habana, 3) and Mallorca (address: Calle de Serrano, 6). “Barquillos” (Spanish Wafer Rolls) “Barquillos” are made of unleavened flour, sugar and cinnamon. The origin of this popular sweet dates from the late nineteenth century, Barquillero when the streets of downtown Madrid were full of kiosks and street vendors (“barquilleros”) who sold “barquillos” throughout the year. Unfortunately, at present,”barquilleros” have become an anecdote in the Spanish capital. You can find them dressed with regional costumes near the touristic spots such as the Royal Palace or the Retiro Park.

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TAPAS IN MADRID Few cities in Spain live their traditions as vividly as Madrid. And tapas are no exception to the rule. Every weekend bars are full of people enjoying delicious tapas while they chat and laugh about everything and nothing in particular. According to tradition, the origin of tapas dates back to the nineteenth century in Andalusia (South of Spain) when “mesoneros” (innkeepers) covered the glass of wine with a plate of food to prevent flies and insects from falling into the glass. This custom became popular throughout the country and today is a global phenomenon. Tapa or Pincho? Many tourists wonder the difference between tapa and pincho (pintxo in Basque). The truth is that there is a very fine line between them. According to the purists, tapas are eaten with utensils. However pinchos are small bites of food where ingredients are skewered with a toothpick and served over slices of bread. Pinchos were born in the Basque Country where cities like San Sebastian have reached the rank of gastronomic capital of the country.

Jamón Serrano: Undoubtedly, Serrano ham, along with olive oil, is the most highlyrated foodstuff beyond the borders of Spain. “Jamón Serrano” should be served in thin slices at room temperature. Despite its price is one of the favorite tapas in Spain.

Manchego Cheese: Spain loves cheese and the variety is amazing but maybe Manchego Cheese is the most popular. This cheese, typical of the Land of Don Quixote, is made of sheep's milk and is characterized by its intense flavor and strong aroma.

Tortilla (Spanish Omelette): Probably the most classic dish of Spanish Gastronomy and one of the most popular tapas among tourists. Madrileños love “tortilla” and no bar or tavern worthy of the name can survive in Madrid without “tortilla”. Must-try dish.

Patatas Bravas: Fried potatoes accompanied by a slightly spicy sauce. According to tradition “Patatas Bravas” were invented in Madrid in the 60's. But nowadays many bars compete for the best “Patatas Bravas” in town.

Croquetas (Croquette): Despite the fact that its origin is French, today is one of the signature dishes of Spanish gastronomy. Genuine Madrid croquettes are made of hen and should be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Boquerones en Vinagre (Anchovies in Vinegar): Anchovies in vinegar are one of the favorite snacks for Madrileños. The anchovies are marinated for hours in vinegar and served with abundant extra virgin olive oil, garlic and parsley. Delicious!

Where to eat Tapas? This is a great question and difficult to answer. There is not only one bar to eat delicious tapas but dozens of them. In other words, “madrileños” visit various bars and eat the specialty of the house in each one. For this reason we recommend you several routes and areas of the city where you will find wonderful and genuine tapas. Route 1: Plaza Santa Ana – Plaza Mayor: Casa Labra (Calle de Tetuan, 12) was opened in 1860 and specializes in homemade croquettes and fried cod slices! Casa Alberto (Calle Huertas 18), inaugurated in 1827, is one of the temples of gastronomy in Madrid. Las Bravas (Calle Alvarez Gato, 3) Don´t leave Madrid without sampling the best “Patatas Bravas” in town. La Casa del Abuelo (Calle Victoria, 12) A bar with more than one hundred years and specialized in prawns and shrimps. Simply delicious! The tiny Cava de San Miguel Street is full of traditional taverns and bars highly recommendable (Mesón de la Tortilla, Mesón del Champiñon, Museo del Jamón, etc.). San Miguel Market (Plaza de San Miguel s/n) Maybe it is a very tourist place which raises the price of products. However, the quality of some stalls is undeniable. Route 2: Plaza Mayor – La Latina: Casa Amadeo (Plaza del Cascorro, 18) This bar is known throughout the city for snails which are served in a delicious sauce with “chorizo” and ham. They also offer a wide variety of tapas such as “callos a la madrileña” (tripe stew), pig´s ear or “chorizo” cooked in apple cider. Casa Paco (Puerta Cerrada, 11) It is a genuine Madrid tavern. We recommend trying meat dishes, “pisto manchego” (ratatouille) and “chicharrones” (pork rind). Casa Revuelta (Calle Latoneros, 3) A must stop on your tapas route. This bar offers delicious “bacalao rebozado” (battered cod) and “callos a la madrileña” (traditional tripe stew). Taberna Los Huevos de Lucio (Calle Cava Baja, 30) The most famous place in Madrid to eat “huevos rotos” (scrambled eggs with French fries). El Schotis (Calle Cava Baja, 11) It is one of those places where you feel like the locals. The specialties of the house are “tortilla de patatas” (Spanish Omelette) and “croquetas” (croquettes).

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GASTRONOMY

rent a dinner suit: Trajes Guzman (address: Calle de Serrano 2/ Phone Number: 91 431 47 73/ Website: www.trajesguzman.com/

Traditional Restaurants

Restaurant Info Madrid has a multitude of restaurants of all types and price, from humble eatery (“tabernas”) or Chinese restaurants to some of the best restaurants in Europe which are frequented by politicians and multimillionaire football players. The excess of restaurants in Madrid causes fierce competition between them, benefiting enormously the customer. In addition, the relaxed pace of life and good weather in Spain favors eating out in restaurants. Lunch time is taken very seriously in Spain: usually people spend 45 minutes or 1 hour eating and extend the conversation after-lunch enjoying a coffee (café). Opening Hours: Traditionally in Spain lunch and dinner are really very late in comparison to others European countries. Spanish families tend to have lunch between 14:00 and 15:00 and dinner is served from 21:00 to 22:30. The ideal time to enjoy the famous tapas (snacks) is about 13:00 and at the end of the afternoon, between 19:30 and 21:00. The restaurants begin to serve meals from 13:00-13:30 and dinners from 20:30-21:00. If you want to eat before, you can always go to some fast food franchise where you will benefit from more flexible and longer opening hours. Prices & Tips: From Monday to Friday “Menú del día” is an economical way to eat in Madrid, especially in downtown: for a fixed price, some restaurants offer first course, second course, drink, bread and dessert or coffee. Normally you have to ask the waiter for the "Menu del día" because sometimes they do not show it openly. Usually these menus include traditional Spanish food such as soups, salads, legumes, omelets, Menu del día scrambled eggs, meat and fish. VAT in restaurants is 10% and must be included in the price of the menu. Unlike other European countries, Spanish people usually leave no tips. If you are happy with the service, 5% will be well received by the waiter. Almost all the restaurants accept credit cards: VISA and MasterCard are the most used. Before entering, you can check if they accept credit cards or Restaurant Checks. Reserve: If you want to eat at a particular restaurant it is advisable to book a table, especially at lunchtime when thousands of workers, businessmen and government employees fill the restaurants and bars of the capital. A call a couple of hours before is enough. Etiquette: In most restaurants it is not necessary to wear formal dress and there is no a dress code. On the contrary, if you want to eat at the most exclusive restaurants in Madrid, you will need a dinner jacket which is provided for some restaurants. In any case, you can always

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The number of € indicates the approximate price level based on a main course with a drink.

€€€ Expensive: more than €30 per person. €€ Middling: €20-€30 per person. € Cheap: less than €20 per person.

Restaurante El Bodegon €€€ Address: Calle Pinar, 15 Metro:  Gregorio Marañón This is without question one of the best restaurants in Madrid. Delight your senses in El Bodegon, which is commanded by the internationally renowned chef Hilario Arbelaitz, who will please the most exigent palates. Exquisite service, seasonal recipes, large and varied selection of excellent wines and an extraordinary collection of artworks. Restaurante Teatro Real de Madrid €€€ Address: Calle Felipe V s / n Metro:  Opera The restaurant, decorated by Pascua Ortega, is a reflection of the great Operas that have been staged at the Royal Theater. There is a clothing collection which includes dresses and accessories worn by famous actors and actress. Clients can also admire beautiful musical instruments or parts of sets used during the Operas. The restaurant entrance is free and independent of the theatrical performances. Asador Donostiarra €€€ Address: Calle Infanta Mercedes, 79 Metro:  Tetuan This restaurant is hugely popular in Madrid, especially among Real Madrid players and fans, so it´s advisable to book well in advance. Specialties: “Merluza a la vasca” (Basque Hake), “Besugo a la española” (Red Bream), red meats and “Leche frita” (Fried Milk). Casa Lucio €€€ Address: Calle Cava Baja, 35 Metro:  La Latina When you enter Casa Lucio you feel like in a nineteenth-century tavern. This restaurant is very well-known in Madrid and frequented by politicians, artists or bullfighters among others. Spanish quality food guaranteed to please all. Sometimes is quite difficult to get a table so don´t forget to book in advance. Specialties: “Zancarrón” (Beef Stew), “Callos a la Madrileña” (Tripe Stew), “Huevos Rotos” (Fried eggs with French fries), “Tortilla de patatas con pisto” (Spanish Omelette with ratatouille), “Arroz con Leche” (Rice Pudding). Las Bravas Bar € Address: Pasaje Matheu 5 Metro:  Sol This is one of the best places in town to try the typical “Patatas Bravas”, one of the signature Madrid dishes: potatoes are cut into dice (irregular size), fried in oil and served with a spicy tomato sauce called "salsa brava", which is poured over the potatoes. Yummy! Restaurante La Dorada €€€ Address: Calle Orense, 64 Metro:  Nuevos Ministerios Maritime décor with individual cabins which try to imitate an Ocean Liner. This restaurant is the place to be for fish and seafood lovers. Reservations are only accepted for groups between six and forty

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GASTRONOMY persons. La Dorada is equipped with telephone, direct fax, Internet access and TV screen. Don´t miss the amazing wine cellar. If you come by car don´t worry, the restaurant has a parking attendant. Restaurant La Bola €€ Address: Calle Bola 5 Metro:  Opera This restaurant is an excellent choice if you want to try an authentic “Cocido Madrileño” (chickpea stew) and other traditional dishes such as lamb or hake. Over the years, this popular restaurant has had the pleasure of serving many celebrities such as Ava Gadner, Paolo Futre, Camilo Jose Cela, etc. Restaurante Casa Valencia €€ Address: Paseo del Pintor Rosales 58 Metro:  Argüelles Restaurante Casa Valencia, inaugurated in 1975 by the Kings of Spain, is the perfect place to enjoy a rice dish. You can choose from many varieties: black paella, traditional paella from Valencia (rabbit, chicken and vegetables), seafood paella, etc. We strongly recommend trying the delicious Fideuá which is a kind of paella made of thin noodles and fish, very popular in Valencia. Casa Mingo € Address: Paseo de la Florida 34 Metro:  Principe Pio This restaurant, hugely popular among locals, can be defined as a genuine Asturian Cider Bar (North Spain) in the heart of Madrid. You will enjoy typical dishes from Northern Spain such as “Empanada” (meat pie) or sausage in cider, really yummy. They also offer Spanish omelettes and grilled chicken. The homemade cider, which is elaborated at the restaurant, is one of the strong points in Casa Mingo. Taberna Pompeyana € Address: Calle Alvarez Gato 5 Metro:  Sol Beautiful pizzeria located very near from Santa Ana Square, in the bohemian Literary Quarter. Tapas are great and delicious. Some days a week they serve a free pizza slice when you order a beer. Malandrin € Address: Calle Almendro 9 Metro:  La Latina Wonderful tapas bar that combines traditional Madrid cuisine with modern touches. You cannot miss the great toasts, highly recommended. Mesón El Lacón € Address: Calle Manuel Fernandez y Gonzalez 8 Metro:  Sol Typical Andalusian tavern where you can try delicious traditional dishes such as “Pimientos del Padrón” (small peppers fried in olive oil with Maldon salt), croquettes, or “Revuelto de Bacalao” (Scramble eggs with salt cod). Free tapas with your drink! In short, traditional food and excellent value for money.

Four Original Proposals to Eat in Madrid Cafe de Oriente €€ Address: Plaza de Oriente 2 Metro:  Opera This classic cafe is located in one of the most emblematic places in Spain, just in front of the Royal Palace and next to the Royal Theatre, the leading theater in Spain. The wonderful views will captivate you and will make you feel a part of the history of Spain. The cafe was opened in 1983 and was designed in a Neo-Baroque Madrid Express

style, really elegant. Shortly after its inauguration, Café de Oriente became an icon of the capital and began to be frequented by famous people. For example the table number nine was reserved for the Mayor of Madrid, Enrique Tierno Galvan. Subsequently, this table was assigned to Antonio Mingote, famous Spanish journalist who passed away in 2012. However, the most illustrious customer was not a person. For many years, a small sparrow entered the cafe everyday where he took refuge, seeking warmth and food. Soon the little sparrow became a much loved pet by employees and clients of the cafe. After spending the day among waiters and tables, the cute animal returned to the park where he lived. Tommy Meal´s € Address: Calle Hortaleza 34 Metro:  Chueca / Sol Themed restaurant inspired by the 50´s American diners: juke box, Elvis Presley songs, neon lights, pretty waitresses dressed in pink, delicious burgers, grilled steaks and wonderful milkshakes and desserts. This is America and caloric food dominates the menu: hot dogs, sandwiches, burgers, beacon, French fries, etc. but do not expect the typical fast food restaurant. Tommy Mels is a unique place where quality plays an important role. Do not forget to try the cheesecake, really amazing! During lunchtime the restaurant is filled in minutes and you'll have to wait to be served. Unfortunately reservations are not accepted. San Miguel Market €€ Address: Plaza San Miguel, 1 Metro:  Opera This gastronomic market is located in San Miguel Square, just a few meters from Plaza Mayor. Since the nineteenth century this place was occupied by a street food market: traders set up their stalls and sold meat, fruits, salted fish, etc. in very poor hygienic conditions. During the nineteenth century hygienic theories were gaining ground and local authorities took measures to shut down this kind of markets. In 1916 the Government built the current market which dazzled the locals with its nice iron structure inspired by the major European markets such as in Paris or Amsterdam. In 1999 reconstruction works were carried out and the market was transformed into a "Gastronomic Market" where high quality products are sold. You can taste what you buy and sit for a while eating delicious tapas: Serrano ham, homemade cheese, oysters, Rioja wine, paella, sushi, etc. Actually, San Miguel Market has become one of the trendiest places in Madrid to the point that on weekends you can hardly walk the market galleries. Restaurante Casa Botín €€€ Address: Calle Cuchilleros 17 Metro:  Opera /  La Latina Without doubt, Restaurante Casa Botín offers one of the most unique dining experience in the world. Do you want to know why? Read more! Restaurante Casa Botín holds the distinguished record of being the oldest restaurant in the world. Casa Botín was opened in 1725 very near Plaza Mayor, an area replete with history and legends. Many historical and international figures have enjoyed this restaurant such as Juan Carlos I (King of Spain), Ernest Hemingway, Martin Luther King or a man called Francisco de Goya. Yes, we are talking about the famous Spanish painter who worked at the restaurant washing dishes when he was a teenager. Years later he became the official painter to Kings Carlos III and Carlos IV. The specialty of the house is the slow-roast suckling pig in a wood oven. Piglets are brought directly from Segovia, a small town located 90 kilometers from the Spanish capital and famous for its piglets and lambs. A taste you will never forget!

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Where to Stay

Madrid Express

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WHERE TO STAY

M

adrid is a city with hundreds of hotels to choose from cheap cozy hostels to some of the best hotels in the World. Pack your suitcase and let´s go!

If you don’t know where to star, don’t despair. We give you the keys to choose the best hotel for a perfect holiday! The number of € indicates the approximate price level based on double occupancy.

Lisboa Hostel € Address: Calle Ventura de la Vega 17 Metro:  Sol Lisboa Hostel is only 500 meters from Thyssen Museum, one of the best Art Galleries in Europe. This area of Madrid belongs to the “Barrio de las Letras”, the neighborhood where illustrious figures of Spanish literature such as Miguel de Cervantes or Lope de Vega lived. Today this district has become one of the most bohemian areas in the city and is full of terraces, typical bars and cozy squares. Lisboa Hostel has comfortable and lovely rooms that will make you feel like home.

€€€ Expensive: over €150 per night. €€ Middling: €50-€100 per night.

Hotel Urban €€€ Address: Calle Carrera San Jerónimo 34 Metro:  Puerta del Sol Amazing boutique hotel located few meters from the Spanish Parliament and 300 meters from Puerta Sol. The hotel owner is a passionate lover of Egyptology and Urban Hotel reflects this passion: there is a wonderful collection of Egyptian pieces which can be beholden by guests. The hotel cafeteria is really fantastic and frequented by politicians and deputies. Shuttle service from and/or to Madrid Barajas Airport and limousine service are available for all guests.

€€€ Cheap: less than €50 per night.

Symbol Key:

City Center Hotels NH Palacio de Tepa €€€ Address: Calle San Sebastian 2 Metro:  Sol This nice building dates from the eighteenth century and is located just 350 meters away from Puerta del Sol, tourist epicenter of the Spanish capital. The hotel was inaugurated recently after improvement works to refurbish this elegant and luxury Palace which belonged to the Count of Tepa.

Hotel Vincci Via 66 €€ Address: Calle Gran Vía 66 Metro:  Gran Via This great hotel is located 150 meters away from Plaza España, one of the busiest places in the city center. The hotel is ideal for a romantic stay in Madrid: enjoy a drink on the terrace of the hotel and discover the best views of downtown Madrid. Modern and contemporary interior decoration spiced up with elegant touches.

Hotel Petite Palace Londres €€ Address: Calle Galdo 2 Metro:  Sol Fantastic hotel located very near from Puerta del Sol and Preciados Street where you can find all kinds of restaurants, bars, shops and boutiques. The hotel has a modern and warm decoration, ideal for both young couples and businessmen. In every room there is a laptop with internet connection. There is a wonderful terrace where breakfast is served in summer.

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Maria Elena Palace €€ Address: Calle Aduana 19 Metro:  Sol / Gran Via /  Sevilla This hotel is ideal for city breaks thanks to its perfect location, 300 meters away from Puerta Del Sol and pretty close to the main attractions. In addition the area is full of bars, restaurants, fast food franchises, shops and souvenir shops. Rooms are elegantly decorated and comfortable. The hotel restaurant serves Oriental cuisine fused with traditional Spanish cuisine.

Hispalense Hostel € Address: Calle Fuentes 12 Metro:  Opera Hostel Hispalense is located between the Royal Theatre and Puerta del Sol Square, in the heart of “Madrid de los Austrias” (Habsburg Madrid). Hostel rooms are comfortable, cozy and equipped with airconditioning and minibar. 24-hour reception for those who want to discover the famous Madrid´s nightlife. Good value for money.

Hotel Exe Lope de Vega €€ Address: Calle Lope de Vega 49 Metro:  Anton Martin This hotel, dedicated to Lope de Vega, is located just in front of the Prado Museum, one of the five most visited Museums in the World. Its design is cozy, elegant and efficient which make it ideal for both tourists and business travelers. Assorted buffet breakfast which is not included in the room price.

Hotel Vincci Capitol €€ Address: Calle Gran Via 41 Metro:  Gran Via Hotel Vincci Capitol is located in front of the well-known Callao Square, one of the crowded places in Madrid. Art-decó decoration is really irresistible. Rooms are spacious, fully

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WHERE TO STAY equipped and overlooks Gran Via Street, the most popular street in Spain. Fortunately, all rooms are noise insulated. Don´t forget to visit the wonderful roof top terrace from where you will enjoy killer views of Madrid.

Hotel Liabeny €€ Address: Calle de la Salud 3 Metro:  Sol This elegant hotel is located just 200 meters away from Puerta Del Sol. Hotel design is modern and functional which makes it perfect for tourists or business travelers. The restaurant specializes in traditional Spanish cuisine.

Hotel Petite Palace Mayor Plaza €€ Address: Calle Mayor 46 Metro:  Sol This charming boutique hotel (64 rooms) is located in the heart of Madrid Old town, very close to the main attractions such as the Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral, Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol or San Miguel Market. Rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated. There are family rooms up to 6 people: King-size bed or two beds plus bunk beds (baby cots free of charge). The hotel offer free loaner bikes as amenities which is great to discover Madrid in a different way.

Financial District Hotels Eurostars Madrid Tower €€€ Address: Avenida de la Castellana 259B Metro:  Chamartin This awesome hotel is located in the new Financial District of the Spanish Capital. Eurostars Madrid Tower was built upon the old Real Madrid Training Camp which was moved to Valdebebas. The 474 amazing rooms, situated at a height of more than 200 meters, boast breathtaking panoramic views of the city. 100 meters away from the hotel there is a Metro Station (Begoña ) which connects the Financial District with the historical center.

Husa Chamartin €€ Address: Calle Agustín de Foxá, S/N Metro:  Chamartin Husa Chamartin is located a few meters from Chamartin Train Station from where you can take trains to France, Bilbao or Barcelona. At the same time, this Station is connected with the Airport by a regular commuter train (Cercanías). Husa Chamartin has all the services you can imagine for a perfect stay. Rooms (378) are spacious, with large windows that allow natural light. The hotel restaurant is especially recommended and offers traditional Mediterranean dishes. Anyway it is not difficult to find a good restaurant in this area of the city.

Abba Castilla Plaza €€ Address: Paseo de la Castellana, 220 Metro:  Plaza Castilla This modern hotel is located in Plaza Castilla, one of the largest transport hubs in Europe (200,000 people per day). From here you can take metro or bus to almost anywhere in the city. Rooms are fully equipped: mini-bar, plasma screens, large windows, Wi-Fi connection, hairdryer, magnifying mirror, etc.

Madrid Express

Gastronomy plays an important role in this hotel. There is a snack bar, a piano bar and a restaurant specialized in Basque cuisine which is considered as one of the best in the world. All the same, around the hotel you will find countless restaurants, bars, cafes, fast food franchises, etc.

Hotel AC Cuzco by Marriott €€€ Address: Paseo de la Castellana 133 Metro:  Cuzco This incredible hotel managed by Marriott is located in a strategic point, between the Congress Palace and Plaza Castilla, one of the biggest intermodal transport hubs in Madrid. Hotel AC Cuzco boasts sophisticated and elegant rooms which are fully equipped. Common areas are really stylish. Don´t miss the fantastic hotel restaurant (open 24h) managed by the distinguished chef Abel P. Cervantes.

Airport Hotels High Tech Hotel Madrid Aeropuerto €€ Address: Calle Galeón, 25 Metro:  Alameda Osuna The Spanish hotel chain High Tech, founded in 2001, has recently opened this incredible hotel very near from Madrid-Barajas Airport. Rooms are functional, tastefully decorated and offer all the comfort of an urban hotel. If you have an early morning flight, you can enjoy a light breakfast (05:00 am-07: 00am). Furthermore, there is a shuttle service from and/or to the Airport Alameda de Osuna Metro Station () is located just 300 meters away and connects this residential neighborhood with downtown Madrid (approximately forty minutes) without changing the line, which is great if you want to visit the city.

Hilton Madrid Airport €€€ Address: Avenida de la Hispanidad, 2-4 Metro:  Canillejas Hilton Madrid Airport is a modern hotel located a few minutes’ drive from Barajas Airport. Hilton is always guarantee of quality and comfort and this hotel is no exception. If you need to go to the city center the hotel offers a free shuttle service. Rooms are comfortable and spacious, very appropriate for business travelers. The hotel restaurant offers wonderful Spanish and International cuisine. At the same time, you can enjoy traditional tapas at the bar.

Clement Barajas €€ Address: Avd General 43 Metro:  Barajas This fantastic hotel is located 400 meters from Barajas Metro Station which connect directly the hotel with Terminal 1, 2 and 4. The hotel is specially designed to make your stay as comfortable as home, especially if you have to catch a flight the next day. The hotel has a cozy bar where we can take a sandwich or a salad. For guests leaving the hotel before 7:00, the hotel offers free coffee. Free shuttle service from the airport to the hotel and vice versa.

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Entertai nment

Madrid Express

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ENTERTAINMENT

F

ootball, night shows, theaters, theme parks, jazz concerts, etc. Few cities in Europe can boast so much choices of entertainment like Madrid. Check out this section and you will discover everything you need to know about entertainment in Madrid. Parque de Atracciones de Madrid (Amusement Park) Madrid Amusement Park receives over two million people a year and offers fun all year round: over 40 attractions that make the Park an ideal place for children and adults. "Tarantula" (a roller coaster 25 meters high and 700 meters length) is one of the most popular attractions. The Park is full of restaurants, cafes, ice cream shops, hot dog kiosks etc. Anyway it is possible to take food from home, which is great if you want to save some euros. If you come by car the Park has a big parking lot (free of charge). Nevertheless, the Park is well connected by public transportation (Metro ). Address: Casa de Campo s/n 28011 Madrid Metro:  Batan Telephone: 902 345 009 Website: www.parquedeatracciones.es/ Prices: General 29.90€ (people over 1.20 meters) Reduced 23.90€ (people from 90 cm to 1.20 meters). You can get discounts buying online

Warner Bros Theme Park This amazing theme park is located 30 kilometers away from the city center, in a small town called San Martin de la Vega. Warner Bros Theme Park, inaugurated in 2002, is one of the most avant-garde and modern parks in the old continent: it has four of the highest and terrifying roller coasters in Europe and the second free-fall world's highest tower. The park is divided into five areas: Hollywood Boulevard, Movie World Studios, DC Superheroes World, Old West Territory, and Cartoon Village. At the same time, the park offers wonderful shows for children as Looney Tunes Theatre or Daffy Duck´s Home. Facilities are complemented by 24 themed restaurants (it´s not possible to take food into the Park) and 13 stores depending on the area of the park where we are. Private Parking for your car (8€). Address: San Martín de la Vega 28330 (Madrid) Telephone: 918 087 600 Website: www.parquewarner.com Prices: General 38,50€ Reduced 29,50€ Public Transportation: Commuter Train Cercanías (C3) from Atocha Station (direction Aranjuez) to Estación de Pinto. Then, you need to take bus 413.

Ski in Xanadú Shopping Centre This huge Shopping Centre, located in Arroyomolinos (29km from downtown Madrid), is one of the favorite for “madrileños”. If you think it´s a bit far, don´t worry because it is perfectly communicated with the city center. Xanadú Shopping Centre was opened in 2003 and is widely known for its Indoor Ski & Snowboard slope (Madrid SnowZone), the biggest in Europe, where you can rent ski suits, a pair of skis and everything you need. More than 200 shops (Bershka, Apple Store, Adolfo Dominguez, Etam Lingerie, Desigual, etc.), restaurants, cafes and infinite fun (Mini golf, Cinemas, Bowling and Indoor Karting) make it a perfect Madrid Express

place for families. The popularity of Xanadú Shopping Center is so high that sometimes the Mall is chosen for events, fashion shows, casting for TV shows, etc. Address: Highway A-5, Exit 22 Arroyomolinos, 28939 (Madrid) Website: www.madridxanadu.com/ Public Transportation: Buses 528, 534 and 539 from Principe Pio Bus Station (journey time approximately 30 minutes)

ZOO-Aquarium The Madrid Zoo, which is located within Casa de Campo Park, is considered as one of the best ZOOs in Europe. The huge variety of animals is absolutely amazing. Moreover, the Zoo is equipped with some of the most modern facilities. Madrid Zoo was opened in 1972 but fortunately has undergone major reforms since then. The Zoo allows us to enjoy more than 500 different species of animals from the five continents: in total it is Xanadú Shopping Centre estimated that the Zoo population is over 6000 animals. The Park is divided into continents: Africa, Europe, America, Asia and Oceania. You will see maps all around the Park which show the recommended walking routes. In addition to all this, there is an area designed for free flight bird shows. Don´t forget to visit the wonderful Aquarium where you will find animals as fascinating as sharks or penguins. If you come with children you cannot miss the great dolphin show. Address: Casa de Campo s/n 28011 Madrid Website: www.zoomadrid.com Metro:  Casa de Campo Prices: General 22,25€ / Reduced 18€ Hop on & Hop off Tourist Bus Book your ticket for the Double-decker tour bus and relax as you roll through the city. This bus is a fantastic way to enjoy Madrid in a different way. You can hop off in any stop and then continue again with the tour. There are two routes: Modern Madrid (green line) and Historic Madrid (blue line). All Passengers are given a map and headphones with explanations of the monuments in thirteen different languages (English, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Russian, Japanese, Dutch, Chinese, Arabic, Catalan, Basque and Galician). Address: City Tour Bus Information: Calle Felipe IV Website: www.madridcitytour.es Prices: 1-day ticket: 21€ (reduced 10€) / 2-day ticket: 25€ (reduced 13€) Bus frequency: 15-20 minutes Tour Duration: Blue line: 80 min/ Red line: 65 min

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ENTERTAINMENT OgoTours Free Walking Tour “OgoTours” offers a great tour (about 3 hours) during which you can experience the best of Madrid accompanied by a guide, who will explain you the history of buildings, mysterious stories and incredible historical facts that have shaped Madrid into the great city it is today. There is no charge to participate in the tour. This means that you pay what you feel the tour was worth. At the end of the tour you will have the opportunity to determine your contribution to the guide. Meeting Point: Puerta del Sol Square (Equestrian Statue) When: Every day at 10:45 Website: www.ogotours.com Languages: English, Spanish Football Football in Spain is a religion, each weekend thousands of diehard fans live with passion the matches and enjoy the show of La Liga (Spanish Championship). Madrid has three football teams in La Liga: Real Madrid, Atlético de Madrid and Rayo Vallecano. In Getafe, a dormitory town located 30km from Madrid, is based a small team (Getafe F.C.) which also plays in the Spanish Championship. Real Madrid is one of the most glorious teams of the World (winner of nine Champions Leagues) and the team with most Spanish Championships. Each season the team spends vast amounts to sign best players in the World: Zidane, Figo, Cristiano Ronaldo, Iker Casillas, Ronaldo de Lima, Roberto Carlos or Raul Gonzalez, are some of the stars who have worn the jersey of Real Madrid. Even Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, which can accommodate 80.000 spectators, has become a must-see for tourists. The main rival of Real Madrid in the city is Atlético de Madrid: derbies are lived with intense passion in the capital and sometimes riots happen between Police and hooligans. If you ever have the opportunity to attend one of these matches, do not miss the chance, the ambiance is amazing. Atlético de Madrid Stadium is named Vicente Calderon in honor of one of its presidents and is located near the Manzanares River. The stadium has a capacity of 60,000 people, one of the largest in Spain. Finally, we cannot forget Rayo Vallecano, which is a modest football team based in Vallecas neighborhood (northeast Madrid). The team competes in the highest tier of Spanish football with a very small budget. Vicente Calderón Stadium In fact, it is rare to find Rayo Vallecano supporters outside the neighborhood. One might say that it´s a tradition that is passed down from parents to children. Huertas (Nightlife) Madrid never sleeps. This is what many foreigners often say: no matter if it's Monday or Tuesday, August or December, in Madrid you'll always find a place to have a drink and stay up dancing all night. Huertas Neighborhood, located in the heart of the city, is the most popular area to hangout in Madrid: thousands of young people fill its streets every weekend creating an incomparable festive atmosphere. There are dozens of clubs and discos open until 05:00 or 06:00 so fun is guaranteed. If you don´t speak Spanish, don´t worry. This area is frequented by many young tourists, expats and college students who normally speak fluent English.

Madrid Express

If you want something quieter, other popular areas to hangout in Madrid are: Chueca, La Latina, Moncloa or Cuzco. Maybe you're wondering if Madrid is a safe city at night, the answer is absolutely yes. The streets of the capital are heavily patrolled 24 hours a day by the police.

Madrid Nightlife

Cable Car Madrid Madrid cable car was inaugurated by the Mayor of Madrid in 1969. Its construction was not bereft of controversy: neighbors complained that they had no privacy in their homes as they could be seen from the cable car cabins. The cable car is about to turn 40 years. Despite this, it is a very safe and ecological transport. In addition, it allows users to enjoy a wonderful bird's-eye view of Madrid: The Royal Palace, The Almudena Cathedral, Casa de Campo Park, skyscrapers, etc. The cable car service operates from "Paseo de Rosales" to "Casa de Campo” and vice versa (there are parking facilities on both stations). The distance covered by the Madrid cable car is 2.5 km which takes 11 minutes. The point of maximum height is 40 meters. The station located in Casa de Campo has a nice cafeteria where you can buy sandwiches, hot dogs, cakes, etc. The views from the terrace are absolutely amazing! Address: Paseo del Pintor Rosales s/n (Downtown) & Calle Cerro Garabita s/n (Casa de Campo Park). Website: www.teleferico.com Opening Hours: Check schedule: www.teleferico.com/en/opening-hours Prices: One-way 3,85€ / Return 5,50€ (Reduced 4,90€) / Kids under 3 years old Free Approximate Duration: 10 minutes Faunia Nature Park This huge nature theme park covers 140 hectares and is organized in different areas which recreate the animal's natural habitat: the Amazon jungle, the Mediterranean forest, the Poles and the African jungle. Visitors can explore the Flamingo Lake or the area called Silent Shadows where they will find nocturnal animal species. Other activities offered at Faunia Nature Park include interactions with pelicans and sea lions, feeding farm animals or themed films. The whole park is dotted with small food kiosks and two nice restaurants: El Roble Burger and El Olivo Restaurant. Parking is not included in the price (5€). If you come with kids, don´t forget to rent a buggy (Baby Car 10€). This park is not only designed for tourists. Faunia also has a clear pedagogical vocation and promotes scientific research. In fact, the park collaborates with Universities and Scientific Associations round the year. Address: Avenida de las Comunidades 28, 28032 Madrid Website: www.faunia.es/ Opening Hours: Check schedule www.faunia.es/calendario Prices: 25,95€ (23€ online) / Reduced 19,95 (18€ online) Public Transportation: Commuter Train Cercanías C2 (Vicálvaro Station) / Metro ( Valderbernardo Station) / Urban Bus (line 71)

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Shopping & Souvenirs

Madrid Express

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SHOPPING & SOUVENIRS

M

adrid is the perfect place if you consider yourself a “shopaholic”: the whole city is full of luxurious streets such as Serrano or Velazquez, exclusive boutiques, flea markets (El Rastro), fashion franchises and huge shopping centers located in the outskirts of the city.

Useful Information Opening Hours: Large Department Stores and Malls open continuously from 10:00 to approximately 22:00. However, traditional shops and small business generally open from 10:00 to approximately 13:30. They take a break to have lunch and rest and then, they open again from 17:00 to 20:30/21:00. Normally shops close on Sunday but legally, they are free to choose their opening hours. In fact, the majority of shopping centers are open from Monday to Sunday. Payment options: In the vast majority of shops and Malls you can pay by debit/credit card or by cash. When paying by credit card you have to show your valid identity card or passport. Taxes: VAT rate in Spain is 21%. Non-EU residents may avail of tax-free purchase - Value Added Tax (VAT) for purchase of more than 90.15€ Don’t forget to apply for reimbursement at the Airport! Sales: Sales period (“Rebajas”) take place twice a year: Summer sales are nd from July until September, whereas winter sales start on 2 January and last until the end of February. During “Rebajas” you can find great discounts from 15% to 75%. As you can imagine, streets are full of people trying to find the best discounts and you will have to endure long queues when paying, especially on weekends. Arm yourself with patience!

Shopping Streets

Chueca & Fuencarral Street In Chueca, the largest gay neighborhood in Europe, you will enjoy all sorts of avant-garde fashion stores, original art galleries, gourmet shops, cafes, restaurants, bookshops, etc. Surrounding Chueca there is a maze of streets full of interesting shops for all tastes where you can find almost everything you can imagine. Special mention should be made of Hortaleza and Fuencarral Streets, a paradise for alternative fashion lovers: leather shops, shoes, beginner designers, tattoos & piercing, jewelry, belts, accessories, etc. If you come to Fuencarral Street, don´t forget to visit San Ildefonso Market, a really gastronomic temple. Metro:  Chueca /  Bilbao Serrano Street & Salamanca Area This neighborhood, popularly known as the “Golden Mile“, is the best exponent of luxury sector in Madrid. Serrano Street and others adjacent streets such Goya, Velazquez or Jorge Juan boast the best and most exclusive boutiques of the capital (Chanel, Ferrari, Prada, Loewe, Valentino, Lacoste, etc.). In fact, it is not uncommon to see numerous groups of Chinese, Indians, American or Russian tourists doing their shopping here, as well as actors or famous football players. ABC Serrano Shopping Center (Serrano Street 61): This elegant building (former headquarters of the newspaper ABC) houses one of the most elitist and exclusive Shopping Centers in Madrid, ABC Serrano. Don´t forget to visit the cafeteria on the top floor! List of shops on www.abcserrano.com/tiendas/ Metro:  Serrano /  Velazquez /  Goya

Department Stores

Preciados Street & Puerta del Sol Area This small shopping street, probably the most popular in Madrid, is full of fashion franchises (Zara, Breshka, Mango, H&M, etc.) where is not difficult to find real bargains. At the end of the street, near Plaza Callao, you can visit Fnac, a tremendously popular store specialized in CDs, Videogames, electronic products and books. During the sales period, Preciados Street can become a wild place: hundreds of thousands of people throng the small street trying to find the best discounts and willing to do anything, so it can be a bit stressful. Use public transportation! Rebajas Around Preciados Street and Puerta del Sol there are numerous parallel and perpendicular streets (Carmen, Arenal, or Carretas) filled with all kind of shops: elegant boutiques, shoe shops, lingerie shops, sex shops, etc. Metro:  Sol /  Callao /  Opera Gran Vía Street Besides its wonderful buildings, this major street, inaugurated in 1910, has a huge variety of shops, boutiques, jewelries, fashion Madrid Express

stores, cafes, restaurants, cinemas and theatres, which make it an ideal place to spend a lovely day. Although the street is full of life 24 hours a day, you better avoid this area when stores and small business close. If you are looking for an eating spot while shopping, we especially recommend VIP´S which is one of the most popular restaurant franchises in Madrid. Metro:  Gran Via /  Callao /  Santo Domingo /  Plaza España

El Corte Inglés Department Store Anyone who visits Madrid, quickly becomes familiar with this great Department Store Group, which has more than thirty stores in the Spanish capital. In fact, it is the biggest Department Store Group in Europe and ranks fourth Worldwide. Stores are very large in size and offer a wide range of products: music, movies, portable & household electronics, furniture, hardware, books, clothes, groceries, gourmet food, cars and real estate events. The company´s international expansion began in 2001 in Portugal, with a huge store in Lisbon and continued in 2006 with the inauguration of a new store in Vila Nova de Gaia, near Porto. Website: www.elcorteingles.es/ Fnac Fnac inaugurated its first store in Madrid in the late nineties and since then, this French company has gained enormous popularity in the Spanish Capital. Fnac is specialized in music, books and electronic products (videogames, cameras, TV screens, etc.). You can find almost anything. Its success is based on popular prices and a good selection of products. Website: www.fnac.es/ Metro:  Callao /  Gran Via

Downtown Shopping Centers The outskirts of Madrid are dotted with giant malls which have certainly changed the consumption habits of thousands of

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SHOPPING & SOUVENIRS “madrileños”. But let's focus on those shopping centers located within the city. Príncipe Pío Shopping Center Formerly this building housed one of the most important train stations in Spain, La Estación del Norte (North Station), which operated direct trains to North Spain and France. In the late 90´s the station was closed and converted into a large shopping center. In Principe Pío Shopping Center you will enjoy a wide variety of shops and restaurants: ZARA, Benetton, H&M, Springfield, Levi´s, Lola Rey, Mango, McDonalds, Burger King, Kebab Istanbul and much more. In addition, Principe Pío offers free Wi-Fi access for its clients, which is great as sometimes it is pretty difficult to find a Wi-Fi hotspot in Spain. Website: www.principepio.es/ Metro:  Principe Pio La Vaguada The tremendous popularity of this shopping center and its unbeatable location (30 minute metro ride from downtown) make it the most visited shopping center in Spain (25 million people a year). La Vaguada was inaugurated in 1983. However, this shopping center has adapted to changing times and Spanish consumers´ tastes. Here you will find all kind of shops, fashion franchises, video game stores, restaurants, Starbucks, Alcampo, El Corte Ingles Department Store, jewelries, etc. If you come with children, don´t worry. La Vaguada offers free baby buggies, childcare service, identification bracelets and even lactation room. Website: www.enlavaguada.com Metro:  Barrio del Pilar La Gavia Despite being a bit away (45-50 minutes by metro from the city center) this huge shopping center is worth a visit. If you are one of those who love shopping, this is your place. One can spend the whole day here: more than 150 shops, cinemas, 25 restaurants, cafeterias, Carrefour, IKEA, etc. Website: www.lagavia.es/ Metro:  Las Suertes

Flea Market El Rastro This famous flea market dates from the Middle Ages and fortunately has been preserved by “madrileños” until El Rastro Flea Market today. Thousands of locals and curious tourists come every Sunday morning looking for antiques, paintings, old comics, or whatever you can imagine. “El Rastro”, the biggest flea market in Europe, extends around Plaza del Cascorro and La Latina district. The most crowded parts of the market are located around Ribera de Curtidores and Embajadores Streets where are concentrated the largest number of stalls. However, we recommend visiting the side streets where you can find real bargains and unexpected treasures. Do not forget to bring cash. Generally most stalls do not have cardreading equipment. By the way, feel free to haggle over the price! Pay attention to your belongings! Unfortunately due to the large influx of tourists and locals this place is frequented by pickpockets who try to fleece unsuspecting tourists. Metro:  La Latina Opening Hours: Sundays and bank holidays from 10:00 to 15:30 (approximate). Madrid Express

Souvenirs The city center is full of souvenir shops where you will find everything, from typical fridge magnets or postcards to absurd souvenirs designed for compulsive tourists. But don´t panic! In Mundo-Guides we want to help you choose the perfect gift for those who you love. “Abanico” (Fan) Fans were brought by European traders from China and Japan during the fifteenth century. Shortly after, Spain became one of the largest fan producers worldwide. The quality of these fans was so high that were exported all over the world. Currently in Cadiz (South Spain) is located the only fan school-workshop in the world. But don´t be fooled! You will find fans for 3-4€ or even less. However, a quality fan is a hand-made product and is not exactly cheap. We recommend visiting Casa Diego who sells fans since 1858 (address: Puerta del Sol 12 / www.casadediego.net). Chulapos and Chulapas dolls Small dolls dressed in regional costume. The origin of this costume dates to the nineteenth century. However, today it is used almost exclusively during “La Verbena de la Paloma” (Fair of the Dove) th th which takes place from 6 until 15 August. Real Madrid Jersey What better gift than a jersey of the most famous team in the history of football! Visit the Official Store at Gran Vía Street. If you prefer, you can go to the Stadium where there is a huge store for Real Madrid fans. “Jamón” (Spanish Ham) Jamón is, without a doubt, one of the most appreciated products of the Spanish gastronomy. If you don´t want to miss the opportunity to try it, we recommend "El Museo del Jamón” where the variety is immense (address: Calle Carrera de San Jerónimo 6). For more information check Gastronomy (page 53). “Mantón de Manila” (Manila shawl) Today Mantón de Manila is strongly related to flamenco. However, in the past it was a usual garment among women. Generally they are made of silk and decorated with hand embroidery. The variety of designs is absolutely amazing. “Azafrán” (Saffron) Saffron is very common in Spanish cuisine. Harvested by hand, it has a distinctive aroma and flavor which will enrich your dishes. The best saffron in Spain is cultivated in Castilla La Mancha. Look for the certificate seal to be sure of the quality of the product. Manchego cheese If you are a cheese lover, you have to try this wonderful Spanish cheese made with goat´s milk. Manchego cheeses are produced in Castilla La Mancha and are very popular in Spain. This type of cheese is characterized by its strong flavor and intense scent. Violet candies Delicious candies made with violet flower essence. In the past, King Alfonso XIII used to give these candies to his many lovers. Olive Oil According to experts, Andalusia (South Spain) produces the best olive oil in the world. Seize the opportunity and take home a bottle of this wonderful product. Rioja Red Wine Excellent red wine produced in North Spain. Rioja wines are appreciated around the world for their excellent quality.

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