Summary: Madrid is the capital and largest city of Spain, as well as the capital of the Autonomous Community of Madrid. It is located in the middle of Spain, and the Manzanares River runs through the city. Madrid has an area of 607 km and has a population of about 3.4 million and a metropolitan area of about 62710,000 (2010), both of which account for the first place in Spain. In addition, Madrid is also the tourism and cultural center of southern Europe, rich in historical and cultural relics, modern tourism facilities, and a well-developed service industry.
Madrid cityscape, source network1. Introduction to the city of Madrid
Madrid, also known as the "Gateway to Europe", is the capital and largest city of Spain and the capital of the Autonomous Community of Madrid, located in the middle of Spain, with the Manzanares River running through the city. Madrid has an area of 607 km and has a population of about 3.4 million and a metropolitan area of about 62710,000 (2010), both of which account for the first place in Spain. Madrid has a temperate continental climate, with a large temperature difference between summer and winter, with severe cold winters and scorching heat summers. 
Madrid cityscape, source network
Founded in the 9th century, Madrid developed on the site of the Moorish border trade post "Magritte".In 1561, King Philip II of Spain moved the capital from Toledo to this area, which has developed rapidly due to its special status, and is now one of Spain's two major cultural windows to the world, along with Barcelona. In addition, Madrid is also the commercial center of Spain and the center of the "headquarters economy". It can be connected to the Strait of Gibraltar on the African continent by water, and the Pyrenees can reach the heart of Europe in the north, so the geographical location is very important, and it is known as the "door to Europe" because of its strategic location in history. In addition, the Region is home to 7 well-known public universities, 36 museums of ancient art, more than 100 museums, 18 libraries and more than 100 sculptures, as well as numerous tourist attractions. These include the Complutense University of Madrid (the second largest university in Europe), the Polytechnic University of Madrid, the Rey Juan Carlos University, the Autonomous University of Madrid, the Carlos III University of Madrid (a top university in business management), etcPrado Museum, Artemisia de Sofia (also known as the "Museum of the National Art Center of Reina Sofia"), Thyssen-Bornemissa Art Museum, Puerta del Sol, Royal Palace of Madrid, National Archaeological Museum of Spain;Escuelas Pías Library, Biblioteca Eugenio Trías Library;Puerta del Sol, Royal Palace of Madrid, Plaza de España, etc. 
Complutense University of Madrid. Image source network2. The history of Madrid
Madrid is located in prehistoric times, but during the Roman Empire it was part of the diocese of Komplutum (now Fort de Henares). In the 9th century, Mohammed I ordered the construction of a small palace on the site of the current Royal Palace of Madrid. A fortress al-Mudaina was also built around the palace. In 1085, Alfonso VI conquered the fortress on his way to Toledo. He sanctified the mosque of the site into the Church of the Virgin Mary in the granary of the fortress. In 1329, the Spanish legislature met here for the first time to advise Ferdinand IV on how to govern the country. Sefhardic Jews and Moors continued to live in the city until their expulsion in the 15th century. After a major fire, Enrique III (r. 1379-1406) rebuilt the city and placed himself safely in the walled El Pardo. During the Renaissance, the Kingdom of Castile, with its capital in Toledo, and the Kingdom of Aragon, with its capital in Zaragoza, were united by Charles I to form modern Spain. Although Charles favored Madrid, his son Philip II (r. 1527-1598) was the first to move the royal palace to Madrid, and in 1561 he moved the royal palace to Madrid. After the Spanish War of Independence (1814), Ferdinand VII returned to rule Spain, but the liberals later staged a military coup. 
Spanish War of Independence. Photo source network During the Civil War (1936-1939), Madrid was one of the cities that was heavily affected. The streets of Madrid also became the site of war. From July 1936 to March 1939, Madrid was a stronghold of the Republicans. During the Spanish Civil War, Madrid was the first city to suffer from strategic bombardments that were specifically targeted at civilians. After the end of the Spanish Civil War, entering the reign of Francisco Franco, the southern part of Madrid became very industrialized. The south-east of Madrid has become a vast ghetto that has become a base for active culture and institutions. From the boom of the 80s of the 20th century, Spain's capital has consolidated its leadership in the economy, culture, industry, education and technology compared to other cities on the Iberian Peninsula. Today, Madrid is the capital and largest city of Spain. Not only can we get a glimpse of the essence of Spain from all eras in the Madrid Museum;In the streets and alleys of Madrid, you can truly feel the blend of various ethnic cultures in Spain. 3. Madrid's economic strength and honorary titlesThe city of Madrid is the capital and largest city of Spain, with a strong economy and a diverse economic structure. The following is an introduction to the economic situation of the city of Madrid:1Gross Domestic Product (GDP): The city of Madrid has the highest GDP in Spain, accounting for around 15% of the country's GDP. The city of Madrid is one of the strongest cities in the country in terms of economic strength. 2.Industrial structure: The economy of the city of Madrid is dominated by the service sector, especially in the fields of finance, technology and business services. The service sector accounts for the vast majority of GDP. In addition, manufacturing, construction and tourism also contribute significantly to the city's economic development. 3.Financial center: The city of Madrid is one of the most important financial centers in Spain, with numerous banks, insurance companies and investment institutions. Many large national and international financial institutions have their headquarters or branches in Madrid. 4.Business center: The city of Madrid is one of the most important business centers in Spain and the Iberian Peninsula. There are many shopping malls, department stores and luxury brand stores in the city. At the same time, the city of Madrid hosts many international exhibitions and conferences, attracting a large number of business events and investments. 5.Tourism: Madrid is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain. It attracts a large number of domestic and foreign tourists every year. Tourism generates significant economic income for the local area and also boosts employment in areas such as hospitality, restaurants, and retail. Overall, the city of Madrid is one of the important engines of the Spanish economy, with a strong service sector, financial center, and manufacturing industry. Its geographical location, business atmosphere and well-developed market attract domestic and foreign companies to invest and expand their business. The economic development of the city of Madrid also has an important impact on the economy of the country as a whole. 4. Madrid's Famous Tourist Attractions and Scenic Spots
1.Royal Palace of Madrid - Located in the heart of the city on the west side of Plaza de Oriente, the Royal Palace of Madrid is the third largest royal palace in Europe after Versailles and Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna. Built in 1738, the palace is a blend of Spanish tradition and Baroque style, with a lavishly decorated interior and a collection of art. 
Royal Palace of Madrid. Image source network 2Puerta del Sol - Puerta del Sol is considered the geographical center of Madrid. It is surrounded by important historical buildings and is the heart of the city's activities. Iconic sculptures in the square include the Bear and the Strawberry Tree, which represent the city of Madrid, and the statue of Carlos III. 
Puerta del Sol Square, source network 3Prado Museum - The Prado Museum is one of the most famous art museums in the world. The museum has a large collection of European art, especially works by Spanish masters from the 16th to the 19th century, such as paintings by Velázquez, Goya and others. 
Prado Museum and Collections. Image source network
4.Bernabéu Stadium - The Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid Football Club, is one of the pilgrimage sites for football fans around the globe and houses a museum for visitors to visit in addition to hosting matches. 5.Columbus Square - Columbus Square is one of the well-known squares in Madrid. It is located near Via Castile and is surrounded by bustling business districts and office buildings, with a statue in honor of Christopher Columbus in the square. 
Columbus Square. Image source network
6.Retiro Park - This is one of the largest parks in Madrid. It is shaded by green trees, dotted with lakes, and has crystal palaces, rose gardens and other scenic spots, which is a good place for citizens and tourists to relax. 7.Gran Avenue - Gran Avenue is Madrid's main shopping street and entertainment district. There are many historic theaters, cinemas and luxury hotels along the route, showcasing Madrid's modern and nightlife. These are some of the city's most iconic destinations, reflecting the city's history, culture, art and modern urban life. 5. Madrid's culinary specialties and well-known restaurants
Culinary specialties in Madrid, Spain:
1.Iberian ham, made from Iberian black pig, is known for its mellow flavor and is loved by the locals. 
Iberian ham, source network.
2.Madrid stew, is a rich stew. The main ingredients include chickpeas, Spanish cured meats, sausages, ham bones, tomatoes, bell peppers, and potatoes, among others.
Madrid stew, source network.
3.Fritters with hot chocolate, a classic Spanish breakfast or dessert, are a daily classic for locals. 4.Madrid-style grilled sea bream is a traditional dish that is a must-have for the holidays. 5.Spanish potato baked eggs, usually made from potatoes, eggs, and sometimes onions, are commonly used by locals as a staple food. 6.The squid ring sandwich is a popular delicacy in the streets of Madrid, loved by locals, and you should not miss the opportunity. Well-known restaurants in Madrid, Spain:1.*arzábal** The famous croquettes are crispy and delicious, and are loved by the locals. It is located near Retiro Park. 2.El Club Allard - is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative Spanish cuisine in an elegant setting. 3.Chocolatería San Ginés is one of the most famous dessert shops in Madrid. It is especially famous for its hot chocolate and chocolate fritters. 4.El Qinto Vino - This place offers a special Russian salad with a unique dining atmosphere. 5.vi**élez* - Fabada, the signature dish of the Asturian region. 6.*sylkar** is known for its delicious hash browns. 6. Gonzo in Madrid1.The Royal Park becomes a Citizen's Paradise:- Retiro Park was once a royal garden for the royal family. But now it is an important place for citizens to enjoy leisure and entertainment, and it is also an important landmark in the love story of the famous writer Jose and Sanmao.
Retiro Park. Image source network 2Migration of ancient Egyptian temples:- The Temple of Debord is a special historical heritage site in the Madrid region. The 2,000-year-old Egyptian temple was gifted to Spain by Egypt for its assistance in the construction of the Aswan Reservoir and is now located in the city of Madrid. 3.The Secret of the Cibeles Fountain:- Below the statue of the goddess Cibeles in Madrid's Plaza de la Cibeles, legend has it that the passage to the vaults of the Bank of Spain is really hidden, and although this claim has not been officially confirmed, it adds to the mystery. 4.Featured festivals:- Every autumn, a traditional herder festival is held in the centre of Madrid, where herders drive their flocks through the city centre, a unique spectacle that brings to life the city meets rural traditions. 5.Art & Politics Activity:- Madrid's Plaza de la Municipality is not only the center of the Golden Triangle of Art. Various public events are also often held here, such as the beautifully decorated nativity scene for citizens and tourists to visit during the Christmas season;In addition, there have been large-scale political rallies and demonstrations throughout history, including marches calling for reform of the political system.
It's not easy to be original every day, if you're still satisfied, you can click on the lower left cornerShareYes, or bottom right"Like" "Comment".Appreciate!