Prado Museum and other Madrid, Spain Things to Do Tips

The Prado is one of the great Art Museums of the world and is a must see for any visit to Madrid. It has the worlds greatest collection of works by the Spanish Masters. Goya, Velazques and El Greco. There are also masterpieces by other european artists such as Albrecht Durer, Heironymous Bosch, Peter Paul Ruebens and others. A visit here should include the Spanish masters and include the more famous works by the other european masters. In any case, plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here. More if you have the time. This painting is by Francisco Goya and is one of his most famous portraits. It is called "The Family of Charles IV".

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The Plaza Mayor is the very center of Madrid and perhaps all of Spain. It was designed and built in the 17th Century. Back then, it was used for festivals, bullfights, trials and executions. Today, it is ringed by numerous shops and outdoor cafes where one can snack on Tapas and have a glass of beer, wine or sangria and watch the people. In the center is an equestrian statue of King Phillip III on horseback, who completed the Plaza. It was his father, Phillip II, who originally designed it.

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Address: Main square of Madrid
Directions: Metro Sol & Opera

The Palacio Real or Royal Palace is Madrids main historic monument. It sits on the site of a 9th Century fortress which was rebuilt in the 14th Century. It was rebuilt again in 1561 as a permanent residence to the monarchy. Then, on Christmas Eve, 1734, a fire destroyed much of the buildings finest parts.
It was then that the palace was rebuilt and it is that building we see today. It was Phillip V who saw to that rebuilding. Subsequent rulers made their mark on this, Spain most majestic palace. It was in use up until 1931 and today is only used for state visits.

You may go on a guided or go self-guided, touring the magnificent rooms within. Also on the premises in a armory featuring examples of arms and armour from centuries of Spanish History.

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Address: Former King's Residence