What to see in Madrid

Visits and monuments and other things that it is necessary to see in Madrid

Artistic heritage

The artistic heritage in Madrid is outstanding. There are very few arab vestiges, but a great amount of buildings from de Austria and Bourbon era.

Palacio Real

After the old Alcázar was destroyed by fire in 1734, the Royal Palace was constructed on the same place.

Plaza Mayor

The Plaza Mayor is a jewel of Madrid's town planning, designed by the architect Gómez de Mora.

Plaza de Cibeles

In the centre of the city, where the Paseo del Prado meets Alcalá Street, we find the Cibeles fountain, eastern godess that presides the city life on top of a carriage pulled by lions.

Puerta de Alcalá

The Puerta de Alcalá was designed by Sabatini. Ended in 1778, it was constructed to celebrate the arrival of King Charles III in the city.

Puerta del Sol

The Puerta del Sol occupied in the past the East access to the city. But during the 16th and 17th-century it turned an important forum of the city.

Retiro

The Retiro is a park sited in the same centre of Madrid, where in old days there was a palace constructed for Philip IV and an area for pleasure of the royal family.

Monasterio de la Encarnación

This monastery is one of the most notable religious institutions in Madrid. Of plain construction, it was founded in 1611 by Queen Margaret from Austria, wife of Philip III.

Las Descalzas Reales

The Royal Convent of Las Descalzas Reales is very rich and has an outstanding history.

Museo del Prado

This museum is one of the most valuable of the world.

Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza

In this museum you can find from primitive Flemish pieces to contemporary European and Northamerican art.

Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

Some of the best-knowm pieces of Spanish art can be found in the Reina Sofía Art Centre.

Museo Arqueológico Nacional

Madrid's National Archaeological Museum is sited behind the noble building of the National Library, of Hellenistic style.

Some other interest sites in Madrid

Apart from the places described above, some other sites resumed now can be of interest for the visitor.

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