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The capital of Spain, Madrid is a cosmopolitan city and a centre for finance, administration and commerce. Ironically, the name Madrid is derived from the Arabic word "Magerit" meaning "mother of the waters". A fortress on the banks of Manzanares River, Madrid was named thus. The Madrid Sierra a spectacular mountain range is a haven for practicing winter sports.
Madrid has been existing since Lower Paleolithic age, but gained prominence in 1561, after it was made the capital by King Philip. One of the main tourist interests is the Plaza Mayor a square that's the centre of commerce and has been witness to many ceremonial events, such as coronations, canonization of saints and bullfights! You can partake of light snacks at the many cafes and arcade restaurants here.
Next to Plaza Mayor is the aristocratic centre, which is home to the amazing Royal Palace. The 17th century palace, is done in the Baroque and classical styles.
In The Plaza Colon are monuments dedicated to Colombus and his travels. The Gardens of Discovery, has blocks of stone, on which are inscribed the many travels of Colombus.
The Parque del Buen Retiro is a lovely park with two palaces and a lake. The Fountains of Neptune gush forth with clean refreshing water!
The Queen Sofia National Art Centre Museum rose to prominence because of Paicasso's masterpiece-Guernika, in its collection.
The Prado Museum is one of the world's best museums, exhibiting masterpieces ranging from 12th to the 19th century.
The devout can seek succor in the Descalzas Reales, with a majestic 16th century facade, done in redbrick and granite. The interiors are profusely decorated and paintings adorn the walls. Jardin Botanico is Madrid's botanical garden, founded by Bourbon King Charles III. The garden is entered through two charming Neo-classical gateways. It houses rare plants imported from South America and Philippines. The library contains 10,000 drawings of the flora and the manuscripts date back to 15th and 18th centuries.
Children will love to be taken to the zoo and aquarium at Casa de Campo and the Faunia Nature Park. It contains a biodiversity theme park with 3,500 animals, including graceful, pink flamingoes. It also contains an aquarium which shouldn't be missed.
Shopaholics should visit El Rastro, where a range of goods from clothes to CDs are on display. Furniture and Antique artifacts too can be bought. Madrid's nightlife too is abuzz, with pubs, bars, flamenco and discos.
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