Madrid
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Madrid is 600 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest capital cities in Europe. Hot summers alternate with cold winters. The city lies at the center of the Iberian Peninsula. It currently has nearly three and a half million inhabitants.
Madrid became the capital of Spain in 1561 under the leadership of Philip II. Therefore, the Iberian city is enriched by numerous monuments including palaces, churches, monasteries ... This abundance is called the Hapsburg Madrid.
In the eighteenth century, the Bourbons succeeded the Habsburgs. Madrid then enjoyed great urban momentum. Artistic commitment rulers such as Charles III or Philip V led to the construction of new architectural treasures. Monuments, gardens, squares are then the Madrid of the Bourbons.
These two dynasties have given us an exceptional heritage. The Spanish capital is bound to delight art lovers thanks to its monuments, its old town and its colorful streets ??. Capital, Madrid is a modern, cosmopolitan city moving, where there are a thousand things to do day and night.
History of Madrid
Around 880, the Emir Mohammed I founded Madrid. Its name comes from "Machra" water source in Arabic and "it" abundance. Initially, it is only a fortress to protect Toledo city which then hosts the royal court. Christians seized Madrid in 1083 Both religions then learn to live together in a certain harmony, unlike many cities Castilian.
In 1561, when King Philip II decided to make Madrid the capital of his kingdom, it hardly counts more than 20 000 inhabitants. Fifty years later, the population has nearly tripled. The Hapsburgs ruled over Madrid and Spain until the eighteenth century.
The Bourbons succeed them and begin large administrative and economic reforms. In addition, they decided to give Madrid the dignified air of a royal capital. The city is, then, an unprecedented development with the French and Italian architects contribution.
After the peaceful reign of the Bourbons, the advent of the Bonapartist occupation is marked by wars, fratricide and popular rebellions. On May 2, 1808, Joseph Bonaparte, brother of Napoleon, was given the throne of Spain previously occupied by Ferdinand VII. Follows a fierce resistance Madrid face the French cavalry. This painful period has been immortalized by the painter Goya.
Between 1936 and 1939, civil war between the Nationalists Republicans, Madrid is defended by the Republican army. She finally went to the nationalists in March 1939, the Franco dictatorship lasted 40 years. During this period, the town expanded considerably and gradually hosts most major state administrations.
In 1977, democracy returned, it is the Movida. Therefore, Madrid experiencing impressive growth.
