Madrid: An Incredible Capital

Serving as the capital of Spain for 500 years, Madrid has turned into a historical city where there are a large number of cultural relics including the Royal Palace of Madrid. In the 16th century, the Habsburg Monarchy decided to move its capital to Madrid. Philip II of Spain embarked on the initial construction of the capital, and this work was carried on by his son Philip III of Spain. With the passing of time, the city’s appearance has changed dramatically, but some architectural relics of that time have been preserved in the center of Madrid.

In Madrid’s central district Barrio de los Austrias, there are relics that can date back to the 16th-17th centuries, when the Habsburg royal family lived in today’s capital of Spain. At that time the streets were narrow and varied in size and shape, and the plain architectural style was advocated by the king. Walking is the best way to get to know the district where shops and pubs are densely scattered.

The beauty of Madrid is incredible, and will not be defeated even compared with that of Paris or New York, to some extent. Philip II chose Madrid as the capital of Spain. In the long course of history, its old city hasn’t been seriously damaged yet. Or perhaps because it has never been prudently planned, it still looks plain and natural. Touring the old city on foot is like walking through time, into the past.

Streets stretch to all directions from the square. There are numerous squares of different sizes and streets which are suitable for you to visit on foot. Some of the squares are flourishing with bars, restaurants, fountains... However, only a few steps away, as you turn a street corner, you will see lonely statues, dry fountains, and old shabby walls of the old buildings. All looks abandoned but is beautiful too.

In the film The Flower of My Secret (La flor de mi secreto), the beautiful dances at the Plaza Mayor must have left a deep impression on everyone’s mind. Located in the flourishing city center of Madrid, the Plaza Mayor is a large rectangular square surrounded by houses. Standing in the center of it is the statue of Philip III of Spain, who oversaw construction of this square. Built in the 17th century, it has witnessed numerous essential historical moments: bullfights, parades, religious trials, executions and so on. Today, however, it has turned into a place for people to spend their leisurely hours, with various street art forms gathering around it to entertain viewers. The outdoor restaurants stand around the square welcoming tourists.

Whether if you are a football fan or not, you cannot miss the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. A number of super football stars have once served the Real Madrid Club de Fútbol (Royal Madrid Football Club), such as Zinedine Zidane, Cristiano Ronaldo etc. The club has always been so popular that even when there are no football matches being held, it keeps receiving tourists. It takes about 3 hours to tour the club, where there is also a museum for visitors to learn the history of the club, stories of the players, and the path where numerous trophies the club has won are displayed. Through the museum, you can enter the stadium and experience the feeling of being a football star by sitting on their seats. After touring the honored boxes and changing room, you will finally arrive at the news room. In addition, you can also buy a few interesting souvenirs at the souvenir shop.