Spaans Leren in Madrid. Cursus Spaans in Madrid. Spaanse Taalcursus in Madrid

Madrid Stad
Spanish Course in Madrid

Madrid is the capital of Spain and the third most populous city in the European Union. Madrid is also the largest city in Spain, as well as in the province and the autonomous community of the same name. Madrid is located to the south of the mountains of "Guadarrams" at 2.100 metres above sea level,and along the sides of the "Manzanares" river. The population of the Stad is in the region of five million. The climate is relatively cooled by cool mountain breezes during its hot summers. Its palaces, many museums and art galleries provide a feast for modern culture lovers. The city also prides itself on its vibrant range of nightlife.

The financial centre is in the western end of the Calle de Alcala. More than 100 banks have their offices in these very costly and pretentious buildings. The Calle Gran Via is a fine mixture of hotels, shops, restaurants, bars, theatres and nightclubs.

Madrid is a city with a relatively short history in comparison to other capitals in Europe but in it has acquired artistic possessions that justify its place in culture. There are many fine museums amongst which should be especially noted are those devoted to exceptional good art collections, both by Spanish artists and works from Holland and Italy.

As Spain's flamboyant and much in the news King Juan Carlos suggests, the country and especially Madrid, remains deeply attached to its historic royal houses.

For centuries, Madrid existed as a Moorish outpost before it was captured by the Christians in 1083. King Philip II proclaimed the city the capital of Spain in 1561. Soon afterwards, a building boom erupted in a profusion of new streets (of the cobblestone variety), stately, red-tiled roof homes and an abundance of courtyards and churches that today surround the central Plaza Mayor. This area constitutes a favorite tourist spot, Old Madrid, with its nostalgic charm combined with famous restaurants, craft shops, old bookstores and numerous cafes.

An energetic enchantment with life that permeates present day Madrid (and Spain), no doubt connected to the liberating years following the demise of Franco in 1975, is nowhere more reflected than in the city's frenetic movements along its grand boulevards. During any season, the Gran Via is packed with shoppers and entertainment seekers; during the spring and summer months, the packed, outdoor cafes and tapas bars that line both sides of the Calle Major, resemble a flowing sea of animated colors and movements. After dark, there are numerous spots for experiencing Spain's native dance, the Flamenco - just ask your hotel's concierge for a few suggestions.