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“Gate of the Sun”, or Puerta del Sol, is a very popular tourist spot in Madrid.

The Spanish used to enter the city of Madrid through these gates at one time. Like many medieval towns it was surrounded in the 15th century by a protective wall and it is through the gates that entry to the city was gained. This made them known to traders and visitors from all over the world and the site remained a meeting place after the walls surrounding Madrid were taken down. Actually, it’s the main meeting place in Madrid to this day.

Breathtaking examples of architecture are found throughout the area, as well as numerous statues and monuments, including a famous sculpture of a bear eating some fruit from a madrone tree, which is what the name “Madrid” is derived from; the bear is also a very powerful symbol for the people of Madrid.

The House of the Post Office, is one of Madrid’s most important buildings, and it is the main point for the celebrations of the New Year. There is also a slab of paving that marks the area that the six major highways come from, that go around Spain. It’s therefore not only a good point from which to begin to explore the city, but to explore the country as a whole.

Just a short distance away from Puerta del Sol you can visit other tourist attractions, like the Plaza Mayor or the Palacio Real; the Royal Palace. The city’s governmental body, Parliament, is also a short distance away. You can board a train at the Metro station and visit this location.

There are many side streets that have shops, restaurants, and many other attractions, so as much time as possible should be used to visit this section. If possible, go in the evening, because both citizens and tourists fill the cafes and bars, and street performers come by to entertain them.

Source : Spanish Phrases

The Palacio Real (Royal Palace) located in Madrid is known for its astounding classical architecture, and for the wondrous statues, monuments, and lavish gardens that adorn the area. Up until 1931 a series of Spanish rulers occupied Palacio Real, which was under construction for 25 years, and was at one time the mecca of power for a dynasty that reigned half the known world in the 1700s.

The palace is so elaborate that you would not be able view its entirety in one just day, though less than ten percent of the palace is available to the public. Palacio Real is composed of almost 3000 rooms, over 40 staircases and 240 balconies, as well as extravagant decorations, furniture and other objects that line every space.

You can see the Throne Room, which once operated as the war room for the world’s primary superpower, and also the Royal Armory, which features a large quantity of armor and weaponry in addition to implements of torture left over from the Spanish Inquisition.

In the palace you will also experience the Royal Pharmacy, where you will learn more about past medical customs; The Royal Library, where numerous first editions of critical Spanish literature are retained; and an impressive banquet hall, where many of the most legendary European rulers have feasted.

Reveling in the view of the Manzanares River, watching the changing of the guards, and strolling through around the best gardens in Madrid, the Royal Gardens, are also highlights of visiting the palace.

The greatest way to enjoy the exhibits and become versed in the history of the palace is by taking a guided, two-hour tour. These $30 tours sell out quickly, mostly during the summer, and it is best if they are reserved ahead of time. If you want to remember what you have witnessed at the palace you will be allowed to purchase postcards and picture albums there, since you will not be permitted to take photographs.

Read On : Spanish Phrases