"Salva's Madrid Page" Madrid by gasca

Old memories come to my mind when thinking about Madrid.

I've been to Madrid many times since my father hometown is nearby the capital of Spain.

Inh. : 3.099.834
Altitude: 655 m (the highest capital of Europe)

Some history details:

The musleem where the first who become aware of the importance of the location when they called the place 'Macherit' (from arabian 'Mother of water') as the city is surrounded by some water reservoirs.

It was reconquered by Christians in 1013 (Alfonso VI).

Two monarchic dinasties gave the name of two famous city tours:

Los Austrias - (1504-1700)
Los Borbones - (1701-1808)

Was at the beginning of Felipe II kingdom (Austria) when this modest city of 15.000 ihn. city was chosen as 'villa' (town) and royal court, and it is for sure that water resources were also an important factor on the choice, but it wasn't till Borbones dinasty that the city really began to become conscience of urbanism.

• Pros:nightlife
• Cons:heat