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10 Historical Moments That Changed Madrid
As time is precious, I will briefly summarise the ten historical moments that changed Madrid.
Understanding the history of the city you plan to visit can be very useful in getting to know the place and its people. Unfortunately, most history books and travel guides are long and tedious. But I’ll cut to the chase and give you the essential details.
Historical Moments That Changed Madrid
- In 865, the emir Muhammad I ordered the construction of a fortress on the banks of the Manzanares River. He would call it Mayrit (“land rich in water”), later known as Magerit.
- In 1561, Philip II moved the court’s seat from Toledo to Madrid, establishing it as the first permanent capital of the Spanish monarchy. A period of rapid urban growth and cultural splendour begins.
- In 1700, the Royal House of the Bourbons, still reigning in Spain, was established. Carlos III’s reign in Madrid saw the construction of major landmarks such as the Cibeles and Neptune fountains, Puerta de Alcalá, the Botanical Garden, San Carlos Hospital (now Reina Sofía Museum), and the building that houses the Prado Museum.
- In 1807, Napoleon got his troops to enter Spain “on the way to Portugal”. Once inside, Bonaparte forced King Ferdinand VII to abdicate and installed his brother, Joseph Bonaparte (nicknamed Pepe Botella), on the throne of Spain.
- On May 2, 1808, the citizens of Madrid rebelled, which led to the War of Independence.
- In 1814, Spain was liberated and, once again, became the capital of culture.
- In 1936, a coup against the Second Republic led to the Spanish Civil War. Madrid, the Republican stronghold, resisted until 1939, but the city was left devastated.
- Franco Dictatorship (1939–1975): Repression, conservatism and control for several generations of Spaniards.
- 80s, the “Movida Madrileña”. A countercultural artistic phenomenon in response to the new period of transition after Franco’s death. In cinema, Pedro Almodóvar was its greatest exponent.
- On March 11, 2004, the second most significant terrorist attack in Europe took place. Four trains were detonated on their way to Madrid, leaving 193 victims.
Other Interesting Posts About Madrid
Other articles that may be useful to you if you travel to Madrid are:
- 3-Day Madrid Itinerary. Itinerary with a map to see the most essential things in Madrid in 3 days (by a Madrid native).
- Madrid: Practical Guide. It includes all the practical information you need to know about getting there, getting around, where to stay and where to go out.
- Madrid: Cuisine and Culture. You must try the main cultural events of the city and the typical dishes of Madrid cuisine.
- 10 Curious Things about Madrid. In case you fancy learning more interesting facts about Madrid.
I hope you liked this post.
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- ✈️ Flights: Compare the best prices on flights using Kayak.
- 🛏️ Accommodation: Find hotels and unique stays at great prices worldwide with Booking.com.
- 🚐 Transfers: Pre-book your airport or city transfers to avoid stress on arrival with Welcome Pickups.
- 🚗 Car Rentals: Explore destinations at your own pace by using Discover Cars or Auto Europe to compare reliable car rental providers.
- 💺Transport (Bus and Train Tickets): Compare schedules and easily book intercity bus and train travel with Omio.
- 📷 Tours & Activities: Book fun experiences, guided tours, and skip-the-line tickets in advance with GetYourGuide or Viator.
- 🌐 Internet Connection: Stay connected abroad with eSIMS from Airalo.
Safe travels! 🌏✈️
Additional Information
You can also check my itineraries in Itineraries. Here, you’ll find them classified in City Guides and Country Guides.
Alternatively, in the section Destinations, they are classified based on the type of trip:
- Amazing Experiences. It covers the most extensive and complete trips.
- Beach and Sea. For those who prefer quieter activities by the sea.
- City Breaks. Short trips with a single destination.
📌 If you prefer to see them separated by continents, check them in Portfolios.
Remember to check Cook up Your Trip. There, you will find everything you need to organise your trip from start to finish.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me. You can leave a comment below or fill out the contact form, and I’ll gladly assist you.😊