Flamenco
Madrid is a city that is globally recognised for its remarkable Flamenco performances, which can be enjoyed at numerous taverns and bars scattered throughout the city.
Flamenco is not just a dance, but also a form of music that accompanies the dance. Originating from Andalusia, it is well-known for its guitar-accompanied songs, complex techniques of foot-stomping, hand-clapping, and the use of castanets. For an unforgettable Flamenco display, the 'Corral de la Moreria' is the place to be.
National Museum of Romanticism
The neoclassical-style former palace of the Marquis of Matallana, erected in 1776, is home to a captivating assembly of 19th-century artworks, furnishings, and decorative objects that capture the essence of Madrid's cultural, political, and everyday life of that era.
Its collection provides a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of wealthy individuals during that period. The exhibition includes pieces by renowned artists such as Goya, Esquivel, Madrazo, Alenza, and the Bécquer brothers. In addition, you can marvel at ceramics from Sargadelos and Sèvres, exquisite jewellery crafted from ebonite, lava, and human hair, a selection of porcelain dolls, as well as several pianos and pieces of imperial and Isabelline furniture. The Magnolia Garden, styled after the French gardens of the 18th century, is one of the most enchanting parts of this exceptional museum.
El Retiro Park
El Retiro, an iconic park in Madrid, was once reserved exclusively for Spanish royalty, but it became accessible to the public in the late 19th century. Covering 350 acres, it is one of the largest parks in the city and is often referred to as 'the lungs of Madrid' due to its vast green spaces.
It's a popular spot for leisure, sports, and outdoor activities, with wide avenues and flat terrain perfect for running, cycling, and skating. You can also rent rowboats to paddle around the pond or enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride. The park is home to several architectural and historical features, including the Velázquez Palace and the Crystal Palace, as well as remarkable sculptures and fountains, such as the statue of the Fallen Angel, the only sculpture in the world to represent the devil, Lucifer. The park also boasts a Puppet Theatre, which offers a unique program every weekend and is one of a kind in Europe.
