Located in the middle of the Iberian Peninsula, the city of Madrid perfectly harmonises modern and ancient within its boundaries. Comprising history and art in many unique ways, the capital of Spain exudes liveliness. Allow yourself to be enchanted by the city’s natural charm and vibrant energy.
Early History
Although it has been inhabited since prehistoric times, Madrid first came to recognition as a documented location during the 9th century. Following occupations from the Romans and the Visigoths, the city was conquered by the Moorish – and only later reclaimed by the king of Léon and Castille in 1085. The reconquering of independence was marked down in history under the name of ‘Reconquista’, led by Alfonso VI. The first gathering of the Cortes Generales – or the first parliament – was established in the city of Madrid during the 14th century.
Becoming the Capital
For a considerable period that encompassed the country’s early history, Madrid was socially and infrastructurally behind in comparison to a number of Spanish cities. Despite the setbacks, the city was established as the capital in 1561 by current regent Felipe II. Madrid’s settlement into its new role was lengthy – however, its development began at a steadfast pace during the 17th century, during a time that many would regard as Spain’s Golden Era. Upholding its new status, the city of Madrid escalated to become the fifth biggest city during the 1800’s, with a rough population of 175,000 inhabitants. Under Carlos III’s reign, a number of well-known buildings and monuments– such as the Paseo del Prado or the Palacio Real – were built.
Independence
Spain’s Golden Era was halted when the country was invaded by Napoleon’s French troops. What was initiated as a treaty between the Spaniards and the Napoleonic empire for the latter to invade Spain’s Iberian neighbour, Portugal, soon turned into a siege of a number of Spanish cities. The country’s struggle for independence was catalysed on the second of May 1808, now widely known as the Dos de Mayo – where the people protested against the French occupation of the Palacio Real, and the consequent expulsion of its rightful owners. The city of Madrid was ultimately liberated in August 1812, with the aid of English and Portuguese troops. A two-day siege was implemented and ultimately, the French army was forced to surrender.
Modern Madrid
Despite the instability that the city of Madrid saw following the war of Independence, the city began to grow both industrially and culturally. The Spanish Civil War fuelled a number of artists such as Picasso and Miró, or authors such as Lorca to express their views through what later became culturally enriching testimonies. Before Spain became the constitutional monarchy it is today, the country was controlled by a dictatorship. Although Franco took up a stance of extreme political oppression, his ruling was a catalyst for Madrid’s expansion as an industrial city. The obligation that the Spanish people saw to exchange an agricultural lifestyle to factory based labour incited workers to leave the countryside, thus causing a high wave of migration to the city of Madrid. Following Franco’s death, the capital was quick to adjust itself to the country’s newfound democracy. Madrid became the epicentre of support for democracy, further aiding its growth as a key location for economic, cultural, industrial and social affairs.
Why visit Madrid?
Not only is this city fuelled by a rich historical background, but it also holds in it a unique charm. The capital continuously combines the old and the new, whilst allowing its historical affluence to peek through its architecture and art that surrounds the city. Enjoy a colourful city like no other and explore its vast plazas and winding calles, all the while enjoying the laid-back, welcoming Madrileño way of living.
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