Every tourist destination has its attractions. However, because every tourist is different, these attractions have greater or lesser value. In this series Gary gives his reasons for traveling to a particular place. Hopefully some of his thoughts will entice you to consider adding this particular place to your itinerary. The entire series is being categorized under the heading, “Spotlights.” You may find more information about these locations in the archives of this website, under headings such as, “Great Places,” “Things to Do in,” “Best of,” “Top 10” and “Places of a Lifetime.” In addition, there may be “Walking Tours” of these places available for purchase on the website for the low price of $1.49 each.
The city of Madrid has been Spain’s capital since the mid-1500’s. Its gracious and elegant architecture and numerous attractions are befitting a royal domain. Include Madrid in your Iberian itinerary for at least the following reasons:
The Royal Palace (Palacio Real) is a regal residence, similar to Versailles and Schonbrunn in size and style.
Palacio Real
2. The elegance of Madrid’s Plaza Mayor disguises the fact that it was once used for bullfights and executions. It is one of the city’s major gathering places.
Plaza Mayor
3. The Prado is one of the world’s greatest Art museums. Its quantity and quality of Spanish artists is second-to-none.
The Prado
4. Retiro Park, once the royal hunting grounds, is now a popular public park, offering a variety of activities to locals and tourists alike.
Crystal Palace, Retiro Park
5. One of the world’s most beautiful fountains sits in the middle of a busy traffic circle, surrounded by stately, classical buildings.
Plaza de Cibeles
