Do you know what the capital of Spain is? Let’s find out and learn more about it!
The capital of Spain
With a population of over 3.5 million, the capital of Spain is Madrid. This city is one of Europe’s and Latin America’s oldest and largest cities.
It is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and historical sites which showcase the rich culture and history of Spain as well as that of its residents.
If you wish to immerse yourself in Spanish culture and learn more about its people, this article will help you!
We’ll discuss the positives and negatives of living in Madrid, how much it costs to live there, what activities are most popular among locals, and more!
History of Madrid
Madrid is one of the oldest cities in Europe. It was founded as “Madinah’ by the Legionaries of the Iberian Peninsula.
It was the capital of the Roman Empire for a long time until the Visigoths conquered it.
However, it was reconquered by the Moors in the 11th century, who made it the capital of the Taifa of Aghlab.
In 1238, the city fell to the Christians, who made it their capital. Madrid saw its golden age during the reign of the Catholic Monarchs, who were responsible for reviving the city and its culture.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the city was the capital of Spain and saw numerous important events, including the overthrow of the Spanish Bourbon Dynasty and the start of the Spanish Civil War.
The opening of the Plaza de España by the king in 1869 marked the completion of the Modern Movement.
Popular things to do in Madrid
Madrid is a charming and diverse city. You can do many things here, from exploring the architecture and art galleries to participating in various sports.
You can also attend various events and festivals and see a play or a show at one of many theatres or cinemas.
You can visit plenty of nature trails, water parks, and gardens, and many of the city’s landmarks, such as the Puerta de Alcázar, are open all day.
Another popular tourist activity is visiting the Royal Palace and Museums, which are free and open to the public.
While it’s a great place to visit, Madrid is also a great place to live. The cost of living in this city is low, and you’ll find plenty of jobs.
Madrid is home to both a thriving business community and an artistic one, making it a great place for professional and creative people.
Negatives of living in Madrid
Let’s face it, Madrid is a big and busy city. It is also a very expensive city, making it difficult to afford the things you like to do.
Living in the city means a lot of people and noise surround you, and finding a quiet place to relax is challenging.
If you want to live a more peaceful and tranquil life, this is not the best place for you.
On top of this, there are very few places in the city where you can escape the crowds and relax when you want to. It can also be hard to make new friends because of the size of the city.
How much does it cost to live in Madrid?
The cost of living in Madrid varies depending on where you live. If you live in the city center, you will pay more than those in suburban areas.
The cost of living in the provinces around Madrid is also quite a bit cheaper than in the capital. The median cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city is €800 ($860) per month.
If you live in the suburbs, the cost of living is a bit less, with the median price for a one-bedroom apartment being €600 ($663).
You can also find apartment rentals at lower prices outside of the city center, but they are usually smaller and more congested.
The most popular things to eat in Madrid
Tapas
This is Spain’s version of pub grub, which is very popular in Madrid. The most popular tapas in the city are tortilla de patatas, empanada, and calamares frits.
Calamares frits are fried squid and are popular all over Spain, but they are most commonly eaten in Madrid.
Paella
One of Spain’s most famous dishes, paella, is famous for being served in a variety of different ways. You can find it in various restaurants, but the most popular place is in the Plaza Mayor.
Catedral de la Almudena
This cathedral is one of the most beautiful in Spain and is best viewed at night. You can visit it for free and see an impressive cathedral lit up at night.
Museo del Prado
This museum is home to one of the world’s most comprehensive art collections. If you’re interested in art, this is the museum you must visit in Madrid.
Plaza Mayor
The Plaza Mayor is one of the most popular places in Madrid. This old town square has restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.
You can spend hours here exploring the many sights and activities on offer.
Bottom line
If you want to live in the center of Spain, then the capital is a great option. It is a diverse city with a lot to offer art and sports lovers alike, as well as history buffs who want to see where the Roman Empire began.
It is also a great city to visit, as it offers a lot of free things to do. However, living in Madrid takes work.
It is a busy and pricey city that is not very peaceful. If you can overcome these downsides, you will find a beautiful and fascinating city worth visiting.