La Almudena is the name of Madrids Cathedral. We started our walk around it by entering the crypt. I saw this column with the early morning sunlight falling through the stained glass window upon it. I immediately saw a photo opportunity.
Madrid is a city of contrasts, many styles of architecture from gothic to modern, but is probably best known for its Baroque styles, such as the Basilica of San Isidoro and the Palacio Real of the Bourbons.
The City that never sleeps.
It seems that people do not sleep in Madrid, the nightlife here is exceptional, starting late and running throughout the night. During the late evening the bars and restaurants give way to the nightclubs and discos. Its not uncommon to visit a churreria for breakfast before returning home in the mornings.
A young city by European standards, Madrid was probably first garrisoned by the Moors when they built a fort here in 854. Its Muslim era came to a close in 1085 when the northern christians captured it.
Until 1561 Madrid remained out of the limelight, but in this year Felipe II set up the Royal court here and since this time has been the capital of Spain. Madrid offered much room for expansion and over the next century the Royal Palace was built and the city developed.
On Madrid's Puerta del Sol, you can see the statue of Oso y Madroño (the Bear and the Strawberry tree) it's become the symbol of Madrid, featured on the city shield of arms. Its also the most popular meeting place in the city.
The city is rich in Art, besides its architecture it is more than well endowed with art galleries and museums. The Museo del Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza and Museo Reina Sofía, all well represented by some of histories most famous artists.
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Catedral de la Almudena - Tomb of Maria...
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The tomb of Maria Teresa and her husband King Alfonso 12 is located in the cathedral. After her death Alfonso continued... more travel advice
Catedral de la Almudena - Windows
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One of the many stained glass windows that help make the cathedral one of the brightest I've been in. more travel advice
Catedral de la Almudena - Ceiling...
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In the cathedral itself one feature you will immediately see (if you look up) are the fantastically decorated ceilings.... more travel advice
Catedral de la Almudena - The crypt.
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We started our tour by entering the crypt, I dont think people would notice the doorway at the end of the cathedral. I... more travel advice
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Comments (33)
Good pictures of Madrid. I like the multi-coloured light in the crypt. Liz.
Take your time, the old codger and I will still be around VT LOL ;-)
Great Pics, Great page. I loved the Topas Bars in Madrid. Did you check them out?
Your initial La Almudena crypt image is incredible. I love it when photos work out like that, thanks for sharing... Have a brief stint in Madrid in a couple of weeks so on to your tips~!
and you should see the claws...nicely sharpened and painted a lovely red. Easier to hide the bloodstains with:)
Damn... i didn't think she heard me in the shower..
Very nice page about this nice city.I really like it! Greetings from Warsaw.
Great tips. Makes me want to visit Madrid someday! Happy holidays!
Happy Anniversary Stace! Carmen just reminded me that it was a year ago this week when we all first met. Aaah, I remember it well.....I was drinkin' hard liquor, eating ham, and autographing hairy legs!!!
Fantastic Madrid pages, Stace! You've really brought Madrid alive.
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