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the capital of the Spanish Empire, Madrid was once the richest
and most powerful city in the world. That kind of past leaves a big impression
on a place and in Madrid it is easy to see. For palaces, museums and concerts
it is up there with the best in the world.
Even if the royal family has largely abandoned the palace, Madrid remains
a royal city with refined tastes. The Royal Theatre is Spain's
most important classical music venue, hosting opera and concert events.
And at the Royal Palace (Palacio Real) the overwhelming
wealth of the Spanish Empire is at its most evident in three thousand
rooms bedecked with priceless paintings from down the ages.
If you're looking for culture, you've definitely come to the right place.
The museums of the "golden triangle" alone, namely the Prado, Reina
Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza, feature a stunning array of paintings ranging
from Old Masters to modern surrealists all housed in some of Spain's most
magnificent buildings. And the rest of the city is just as rich in cultural
icons and architecture.
But Madrid is also a city for going out and partying. The area of Malasana
is packed with bars and restaurants that stay open until dawn and rival
anything Barcelona has to offer. There is also a growing interest in flamenco
among Madrid's young population, which has led to shows and clubs springing
up across the city.
Add to that the most successful football team in Europe (Real (Royal)
Madrid - what else would they be called?) and it is clear that Madrid
today is every bit as confident as it was in its imperial heyday.
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