Spain – an overview
Madrid - Brief History
Madrid, the throbbing heartbeat of Spain, is famous worldwide for its cosmopolitan vibe , fantastic shopping and beautiful people. As the capital of the Kingdom of Spain, the city is fundamental to the country's business and tourism sectors and also boasts an important manufacturing sector. As in many Spanish cities, the city of Madrid is known for its bustling nightlife and sites of cultural and historical significance.
The beginning of Madrid as we know it began during Spain's long and significant Arab rule. Under the Moors a protecting fort was built along the river Manzanares. The city's strategic importance ensured it was constantly vied for by the Christian Kings during this time, and it eventually fell from Moorish possession into Christian hands in the 11th century. Increasingly defended and refortified during this period, the city managed to improve infrastructure and layout into the attractive city that we know today.
Modern Madrid
Modern design and architecture transformed the city into one of long boulevards and modernist buildings, and parks and open spaces were planned and developed. These new constructions and features sit amongst the remaining historical buildings and monuments from the Baroque era, as well as sculptures and statues of historical significance. A trip to the wonderful central square - the Plaza Mayor - or the elaborate Palacio Real are fine examples of the older style buildings that can be seen on your trip to Madrid.
Barcelona
If Madrid is the heartbeat of Spain, then Barcelona is its pulse. A wonderful city break destination, Barcelona is a cosmopolitan regional capital and a lovely place to stop before heading into the country's interior. Here you have the added benefit of the beautiful sea, the enchanting La Rambla Boulevard and the great nightlife that this city has to offer.
Spanish attraction…
Both cities offer a range of different activities and sights, and each offers a distincly Spanish feel in their own unique ways. Thanks to the well developed tourist industries in both cities, you'll find an abundance of accommodation and facilities at good prices catering to international travellers. Public transport is good and the main tourist resorts and sights are well served. The restaurants are brilliant, and you'll be able to sample a range of Spanish and International cuisine including of course paella and tapas. Make sure to have that afternoon siesta following your lunch - you'll need all the rest you can get before you head out for dinner at 9 or 10 pm and dance the night away in one of the many bars or clubs that you'll find in each city.
Madrid, the throbbing heartbeat of Spain, is famous worldwide for its cosmopolitan vibe , fantastic shopping and beautiful people. As the capital of the Kingdom of Spain, the city is fundamental to the country's business and tourism sectors and also boasts an important manufacturing sector. As in many Spanish cities, the city of Madrid is known for its bustling nightlife and sites of cultural and historical significance.
The beginning of Madrid as we know it began during Spain's long and significant Arab rule. Under the Moors a protecting fort was built along the river Manzanares. The city's strategic importance ensured it was constantly vied for by the Christian Kings during this time, and it eventually fell from Moorish possession into Christian hands in the 11th century. Increasingly defended and refortified during this period, the city managed to improve infrastructure and layout into the attractive city that we know today.
Modern Madrid
Modern design and architecture transformed the city into one of long boulevards and modernist buildings, and parks and open spaces were planned and developed. These new constructions and features sit amongst the remaining historical buildings and monuments from the Baroque era, as well as sculptures and statues of historical significance. A trip to the wonderful central square - the Plaza Mayor - or the elaborate Palacio Real are fine examples of the older style buildings that can be seen on your trip to Madrid.
Barcelona
If Madrid is the heartbeat of Spain, then Barcelona is its pulse. A wonderful city break destination, Barcelona is a cosmopolitan regional capital and a lovely place to stop before heading into the country's interior. Here you have the added benefit of the beautiful sea, the enchanting La Rambla Boulevard and the great nightlife that this city has to offer.
Spanish attraction…
Both cities offer a range of different activities and sights, and each offers a distincly Spanish feel in their own unique ways. Thanks to the well developed tourist industries in both cities, you'll find an abundance of accommodation and facilities at good prices catering to international travellers. Public transport is good and the main tourist resorts and sights are well served. The restaurants are brilliant, and you'll be able to sample a range of Spanish and International cuisine including of course paella and tapas. Make sure to have that afternoon siesta following your lunch - you'll need all the rest you can get before you head out for dinner at 9 or 10 pm and dance the night away in one of the many bars or clubs that you'll find in each city.
Source...