The Historical Capital of Spain

The Historical Capital of Spain

Madrid is one of the liveliest cities in the world and is also rich in arts and culture. It is located in the heart of the Iberian Peninsula at a height of 646 meters above sea level. It is a cosmopolitan city, a business center, the seat of the government as well as the home of the Spanish Royal Family.

It also contributes majorly to the banking and industrial sectors. Apart from this it is characterized by a strong cultural and artistic activity and a very scintillating nightlife.

The Metropolis can trace its origin to the times when Arab Emir Mohammed (852-886) ordered the construction of a fortress on the left bank of the river Manzanares. Subsequently it became a bone of contention between the Arabs and the Christians until it was conquered by Alfonso VI in the 11th century. Even before that, there was a strong influence of the Roman Empire on the city and its architecture.

Over the centuries, there were reforms in the architectural styles and the polity resulting in the changing face of the city. The city is a fine blend of the modern combined with the traditional way of living. Visitors to the city can really experience the feel of the opulence and grandeur of the eras that have passed by and can enjoy the different styles of architecture which give the city a unique look.

Some of the most visited places of tourist attractions in the city could be as follows:
The Royal Palace or Palacio Real is one of the most impressive buildings in the city as well as in the entire Europe. It was completed in the mid-eighteenth century and has more than 2000 luxuriously decorated rooms out of which 50 are open to visitors. It is also referred as the Palacio de Oriente (Palace of the East) or the Palace Nacional (National Palace). The Royal Family of Spain does not live in this palace but it is still used for ceremonies and functions involving the state and the royal family.

Puerta de Alcala or the Alcala Gate is located at a huge intersection and is only visible from far as it is surrounded by a large amount of traffic. The gate is deemed as a national monument and is an excellent example of neo-classical architecture and was custom made for Carlos III. This monument is designed by Francisco Sabatini and was accepted in 1778. It was intended to be the primary entrance to the Court and comprises of five granite and stone archways, three main arches bordered by two smaller ones. The top of the gate is adorned by cherubim, trophies and coat of arms which have been designed by Francisco Gutierrez.

Plaza Mayor is a grand arcaded square in the center of the city which was built by Philip III from between 1617-19. It is in the shape of a rectangular square and features a uniform architecture which has a distinct similarity with the Place des Vosges in Paris which was also built at around the same time. The buildings are mainly styled on the Renaissance theme. The square proved to be a hub for theater performances and bull fights in the olden times.

The most prominent building on the Plaza Mayor is the Casa de la Panderia which is the seat of the powerful baker's guild. It was completed in 1590 even before the square was laid out. But the square was destroyed thrice due to fires and was rebuilt.

By Nayan Kamalakar Choure