Welcome to Madrid
Origin of the name
During the Muslim conquests, this place was called Maira, meaning "mother of water" or "stream of water". Consequently, Madrid was the place where Maira abounds, namely, water.
Medieval Madrid
During the XI century, a wall was built covering an area of 33 hectares, although the city itself occupied a smaller territory compared to agricultural plots.
Prehistory of Madrid
In 1561, Philip II appointed Madrid the permanent residence of the royal cour and the capital of the state. The reason for this decision was the geographical position of the city in the center of the country, proximity to the river and forests, a convenient fortress, a strong church and a weak nobility. This event becomes a turning point in the fate of the city.
Transport
Madrid's public transport is represented by the metro, light rail, bus, train, funicular. In addition, you can always use Madrid taxi services or rent a personal transport: car, motorcycle, scooter or bicycle.
Metro
With 13 lines traveling between more than 300 stations, the metro is one of the fastest and most efficient forms of public transportation in Madrid
there are lot more about Transport in Madrid
Interesting Facts About Madrid
The represent of the official Coat of Arms of Madrid is the bear, reaching up to the branches of a tree, standing on his hind legs, attempting to eat the berries.
There is a location in Madrid that houses a statue that depicts the devil. More accurately, it depicts the fallen angel Lucifer. This statue is located at a place where the city is at 666m above the sea level as well. There are gargoyles on the base of the statue that spew out water and the locals call it the "fountain of the fallen angel".
The altitude in Madrid is actually incredibly high. Most of the city is around 700 miles above the sea level. This means that you aren't going to be getting a lot of humidity, as the air is going to be quite dry. Most parts of Madrid are a little bit under the 700 miles above sea level mark, but there are certain spots that go above 700 miles, so it really is quite high.
Thinking what to do at night?
Nights in Madrid
After the sun goes down, the Spanish capital truly comes alive. Madrid residents take to the streets, packing bars and restaurants both inside and out, before moving on to the city's iconic nightlife scene. With such a lively atmosphere everywhere you look, you'll definitely want to get in on the fun.
Places to Visit
Madrid for many years formed all the components of its greatness and beauty. Its architecture brings its unique shades to the picturesque landscape of a masterpiece, for many centuries over which masters from different nations worked. In this city, in general, in all spheres of activity, the experience of a multifaceted society is captured.