Madrid, Spain

About

Madrid, the capital of Spain, is located in the center of the Iberian Peninsula at an elevation of approximately 646 meters above sea level. It serves as both the capital of the Community of Madrid and the Spanish State. With a population of nearly 3.5 million inhabitants, Madrid is the most populous city in Spain. The city's climate varies significantly, from hot and dry summers to cooler winters with occasional rain and snow. Historically, Madrid was founded in the 9th century by the Moors and became the capital in 1561 under King Philip II. Madrid is a global city, renowned for its cultural, economic, and political influence. It hosts several world-class museums, including the Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen, showcasing works by Velázquez, Goya, Picasso, and Dalí. The city's vibrant nightlife offers a diverse range of bars, restaurants, and theaters. Madrid is also a major sports hub, home to football clubs Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid. Economically, it is a significant financial center, with a strong service sector and a major transportation network, including the Madrid-Barajas Airport.