Madrid, Spain has a long and complicated history. For centuries it ruled half the world as the center of the monarchy power, but it is now a one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. One central to the Spanish Inquisition, Madrid is now known for its vibrant nightclubs, incredible shopping and abundance of art.
A trip to Madrid rewards the traveler with first-rate soccer and bullfighting, and shopping third in Europe to only Paris and London. The traveler also experiences the best and most beautiful art museums, parks equal to those in Manhattan, New York. A trip to Madrid is surely not a quick pass through. Visitors should anticipate spending some time in the city.
Art lovers will surely want to visit the Prado, but the Museu Thyseen-Bornemisza is a recent addition that should definitely not be missed. It was founded by the family of wealthy industrialist Baron Thyssen and his wife, a former Miss Spain, housing over seven hundred of Europes beautiful treasures from the thirteen to the twentieth centuries. The Queen Sofia is home to an abundant amount of twentieth century art, enough to satisfy fans of the Museum of Modern Art in New York....