Spain: Madrid

If there is anything worth saying about this city apart from what everybody knows about Spain and Madrid, that would be the fact that people in Madrid really like to go out. On the streets, in the bars, restaurants, shops, anywhere other than sitting at home. I really liked that constant "carnival" atmosphere, especially before Christmas when thousands of people rush through narrow streets of the old part of the town. On many places in the open, numerous selling booths and small shops have been set up, offering anything between decorations for the Christmas tree to sweets and cakes for casual passengers. To me, it didn't really look like all that people were out in the streets for shopping, but just to simply commute, commute and commute. Well, that's Madrid.

Calle de Alcala Panorama

One of the major streets in Mardid, going uphill from Plaza de Cibeles towards the old town.

Plaza de Colón Panorama (VR)

A view from the small park called Jardines de Descubrimiento.

Plaza de Cibeles Panorama

A city square with a large roundabout, in front of the Palacio de Comunicaciones building.

Palacio Real Panorama (VR)

Spanish royal palace is indeed very interesting to see, but for some reason the light inside was very poor and dim. It looked kind of awkward to walk right before the king's throne in a gloomy atmosphere more suited for a dungeon. Luckily, other rooms were lit better so the whole tour was quite worthwhile. As some sort of Spanish tradition in museums and similar places, photographing is prohibited.

With the same ticket you can also visit the Royal Armory (La Real Armería) that is located in a separate room accessible from the courtyard. In here you can see a truly magnificent collection of medieval battle equipment, along with complete reconstructions of knights on horses in full battle armor. This place is a "must see" for all fans of AD&D alike role playing games.

Puerta de Sol Panorama (VR)

This seemed to me like a busiest place in the whole Madrid, thousands pass here day and night.

Plaza Humilladero Panorama (VR)

A sort of a bohemian part of the city, close to La Latina square. From here starts an interesting narrow street called Calle de Cava Baja, that is full of bars and nice national restaurants. There are days when this place is as busy during the night as it is during the day.

Plaza Major Panorama (VR)

One of the oldest "Plazas" in Madrid, from the Habsburg period. Some weeks before Christmas this place becomes a crowded market where you can buy all sorts of finely crafted decorations for your Christmas tree, as well as souvenirs, sweets, cakes and some other nicely prepared Spanish food specialties.

Retiro Park

Retiro is a large park area in the center of Madrid, a true oasis from the rushed civilization around. It has numerous gardens, artificial lakes, arranged walkways and is really well cared for.