Madrid
  • Capital of Spain
  • Population (city) of 3.155 million and 5.8 million (region).
  • Other cities in Madrid Community: Léganes, San Sebastian de los Reyes, Móstoles,
    Getafe, Alcala de Henares, Alcorcón.
  • Highest capital city in Europe (built on elevated plateau 655 metres above sea level)
  • Weather extremes can be attributed in part due to the uncontrolled cutting of forests.
  • The metro opened in 1917 (3rd oldest in Europe) & was recently expanded.
  • The economy grew 2% in 2002, 75% of economy is derived from the service industry.
  • Unemployment: 6.81% (july-2002).
  • Mayor: Alberto Ruiz.
  • Interesting Places:
    • Puerta del Sol: located at the city's most central point. once the site of
      the city's gates. lively shops & cafes.
    • World-Reknown Art Museums: El Prado Museum, Reina Sofia, Thyssen.
    • Plaza Mayor: famous 17th century Renaissance style square with statue of Philip III.
    • Rastro: Madrid's famous flea market.
    • Famous fountains: Cibeles, Apollo, Neptune.
  • History:
    • Founded as the Moorish fort of Magerit in 860.
    • Captured in 1083 by King Alfonso VI of Castile.
    • 1085: an image of the Virgin of Almudena appeared on city walls, who became the patron of Madrid.
    • Philip II made it his capital 1561.
  • Interesting Links: