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Find HYSTORY GUIDE CITY MADRID on your smartphone :
"HISTORY GUIDE CITY MADRID"
Madrid Audioguide
Have a listen… Madrid tells its story.
Take a stroll through the Plaza Mayor, admire the Royal Palace, lose yourself in the narrow streets of Lavapiés, travel through the centuries to the rhythm of the museums, squares and vibrant neighbourhoods…
55 SUBJECTS-------165 AUDIO CAPSULES-------8h OF LISTENING-------10 LANGUAGES
With History Guide City Madrid, let yourself be guided by the voice of the city.
This audio application gives you the chance to discover Madrid in a different way: through your headphones, the stories come to life. Each place, each district, each great era is told with care, through short or long audio capsules, depending on your curiosity at the time.
History Guide City Madrid will be with you every step of the way, whether you're out for a stroll or in the comfort of your own home.
The narration alternates between male and female voices, making for a lively and enjoyable listening experience.
And because Mardid can be shared in any language, the guide is available in 10 versions: French, English, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Arabic, Chinese and Japanese.
Get ready to see Mardid… differently!
MONUMENTS AND PLACES IN MADRID
PLAZA DE ESPAÑA - Between modernity and history
Madrid's most emblematic square, the Plaza de España combines historic skyscrapers, renovated green spaces and cultural monuments. A place to pass through and relax in the heart of the capital, a stone's throw from the Gran Vía and the Royal Palace.
NATIONAL LIBRARY OF SPAIN - The country's written memory
Housed in a majestic neoclassical building on the Paseo de Recoletos, the National Library of Spain preserves one of the richest collections of documents in the Hispanic world, bringing together literary, historical and artistic treasures.
CALLE DE ALCALÁ - Madrid's historic avenue
Stretching for over 10 km, Calle de Alcalá is one of Madrid's longest and most prestigious avenues. Between historic buildings, famous squares and lively neighbourhoods, it crosses the city, linking its heart to the north-east.
CATHEDRAL OF LA ALMUDENA - Faith at the heart of Madrid
Facing the Royal Palace, La Almudena Cathedral embodies the spiritual soul of the Spanish capital. Completed in 1993 after more than a century of work, it boldly blends neo-Gothic, neo-Romanesque and neo-classical styles.
Its majestic dome, colourful chapels and contemporary mosaics are as surprising as they are stunning. It is a place of meditation, but also a living testimony to Spain's modern history.
GRAN VÍA - Madrid's Broadway
A mythical avenue inaugurated at the beginning of the XXᵉ century, the Gran Vía is the beating heart of Madrid. Lined with theatres, cinemas and prestigious boutiques, it embodies the effervescence and modernity of the capital.
Its monumental façades, a blend of art deco and neo-baroque, are a veritable open-air museum of architecture. Day or night, the Gran Vía captivates with its energy, liveliness and spectacular lighting.
INSTITUT CERVANTES - The house of the Spanish language
Housed in the former headquarters of the Central Bank, Madrid's Instituto Cervantes is a cultural institution dedicated to promoting the Spanish language and Hispanic culture around the world.
MONASTERY OF THE ROYAL DECHAUSSES - A hidden treasure in the heart of Madrid
Located near the Puerta del Sol, this monastery, founded in the 16th century, is home to an exceptional artistic and spiritual heritage. Behind its austere walls lies one of the richest monastic museums in Spain.
PALAIS ROYAL - The majestic residence of the kings of Spain
The largest royal palace in Europe in terms of surface area, Madrid's Royal Palace is a symbol of the Spanish monarchy. With its sumptuous rooms, art collections and elegant gardens, it is one of the capital's most visited monuments.
PLAZA DE COLÓN - Tribute to Christopher Columbus
Situated between the Paseo de la Castellana and the Paseo de Recoletos, the Plaza de Colón is a monumental crossroads dominated by the statue of Christopher Columbus and the largest Spanish flag in the country.
PLAZA DE LA VILLA - The medieval heart of Madrid
Nestling in the historic centre, the Plaza de la Villa is one of Madrid's oldest and most picturesque squares. Lined with medieval and Renaissance palaces, it was for a long time the seat of the town hall.
PLAZA MAYOR - Madrid's historic salon
The vibrant heart of the capital since the 17th century, the Plaza Mayor is a monumental square surrounded by arcades and red buildings. It has been the centre of Madrid life, hosting markets, festivals and gatherings for over 400 years.
PUERTA DEL SOL - The beating heart of Madrid
The nerve centre of the Spanish capital, Puerta del Sol is a meeting place, a historical symbol and the kilometre zero of Spain's roads.
TEMPLO DE DEBOD - An Egyptian temple in the heart of Madrid
Donated to Spain by Egypt in 1968, the Temple of Debod is an ancient monument unique in Europe. Located in the Parc de l'Ouest, it offers a magical atmosphere, especially at sunset.
PALAIS DE CRISTAL - Light in the heart of Retiro
In the heart of Retiro Park, the Palacio de Cristal marvels at its elegant glass and metal structure. Built in 1887, it now hosts exhibitions of contemporary art, and is as captivating for its architecture as for its poetic atmosphere.
PALAIS DE VELÁZQUEZ - Art in the heart of Retiro
Built at the end of the 19th century in the Retiro Park, the Palacio de Velázquez combines neoclassical elegance with modernity. Now managed by the Reina Sofía Museum, it hosts contemporary art exhibitions in a bright, refined setting.
PLAZA DE TOROS DE LAS VENTAS - The monumental bullring
Inaugurated in 1931, the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas is the largest bullring in Spain and one of the most famous in the world. With its neo-Mudéjar red-brick architecture, it embodies both the tradition of bullfighting and Madrid's cultural heritage.
PORTE D'ALCALÁ - Madrid's triumphal arch
Built in the 18th century under Charles III, the Puerta de Alcalá stands proudly beside Retiro Park. A symbol of Madrid's neoclassical elegance, it welcomes visitors as a monumental gateway to the city.
PLAZA DE CIBELES - Symbol of Madrid
Surrounded by majestic buildings and dominated by the famous Cibeles fountain, this square is one of Madrid's landmarks and a place of celebration for Madrilenos.
BASILICA OF SAINT-FRANÇOIS-LE-GRAND - A neoclassical masterpiece
Situated in the La Latina district, the basilica impresses with its immense dome, one of the largest in Europe, and its interior adorned with remarkable paintings and sculptures.
MUSEUMS IN MADRID
CERRALBO MUSEUM - An aristocratic residence frozen in time
The former palace of the Marquis of Cerralbo, this little-known museum takes visitors on a journey through the world of Madrid's 19th-century aristocracy. Furniture, paintings, weapons and precious objects are displayed in their original settings.
MUSEUM OF AMERICA - A journey through the civilisations of the New World
Based in Madrid, the Museum of America brings together unique collections tracing the history, art and cultures of the American peoples, from prehistory to the present day.
PRADO MUSEUM - Madrid's artistic jewel
A true world reference, the Prado Museum houses an exceptional collection of European paintings from the 12th to the 19th century, including masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, Titian, Rubens and Bosch.
REINA SOFÍA MUSEUM - The temple of modern Spanish art
A contemporary complement to the Prado, the Reina Sofía Museum houses the greatest masterpieces of modern and contemporary art, including the famous Guernica by Picasso.
THYSSEN-BORNEMISZA MUSEUM - A journey through the history of painting
The perfect complement to the Prado and the Reina Sofía, the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza houses one of the world's richest private collections of paintings, spanning eight centuries of European art history.
ROMANTISM MUSEUM - A journey through 19th-century Madrid
Housed in a former aristocratic palace, the Musée du Romantisme plunges you into the intimate, elegant atmosphere of the 19th century through its salons, works of art and everyday objects.
SOROLLA MUSEUM - The luminous world of the Mediterranean painter
Housed in Joaquín Sorolla's former home, the museum preserves his major works and his preserved studio, offering an intimate insight into the life and art of the great Spanish Impressionist painter.
CAIXAFORUM MADRID - Art and innovation
Housed in a restored former power station, CaixaForum Madrid is a contemporary cultural centre with an astonishingly bold architecture and a famous green wall. With its mix of art exhibitions, design and cultural events, it's a must-see in modern Madrid.
NATIONAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM - A journey through Spanish history
From prehistory to modern times, the National Archaeological Museum traces the evolution of Iberian civilisations through an exceptional collection. Located on Calle Serrano, it is one of Madrid's most fascinating museums.
MUSÉE LÁZARO GALDIANO - A collector's treasure trove
Housed in an elegant palace in Madrid, the Lázaro Galdiano Museum houses the extraordinary collection of a passionate patron of the arts. Paintings, jewellery, sculptures and manuscripts make up a veritable cabinet of curiosities, from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.
NATIONAL NATURAL SCIENCE MUSEUM - Exploring life and Earth
A true scientific benchmark in Spain, the National Museum of Natural Sciences invites young and old alike to discover biodiversity, palaeontology and the secrets of our planet through fascinating exhibitions.
MADRID NAVAL MUSEUM - The Spanish maritime epic
Located on the Paseo del Prado, the Naval Museum traces five centuries of Spanish naval history. Models of ships, old maps and maritime treasures tell the story of the golden age of the great explorations.
MADRID DISTRICTS
MERCADO DE SAN MIGUEL - Madrid's temple of gastronomy
Just a stone's throw from the Plaza Mayor, this emblematic covered market is the ideal place to enjoy tapas, wines and Spanish specialities in a historic setting.
EL RASTRO - Madrid's legendary flea market
Every Sunday, the streets of the La Latina district come alive with El Rastro, Madrid's most famous market, where antiques, clothes, crafts and a popular atmosphere come together.
MATADERO MADRID - The former slaughterhouse turned creative temple
Housed in the buildings of a former industrial slaughterhouse, Matadero Madrid is now a major cultural space dedicated to contemporary art, design, theatre and cinema.
MALASAÑA - Madrid's rebellious bohemian quarter
The cradle of the Movida movement in the 1980s, Malasaña is now a lively district with colourful alleyways, known for its alternative atmosphere, bars, vintage shops and street art.
LA LATINA - The authentic soul of Madrid
A historic and picturesque district, La Latina has medieval alleyways, lively squares and a friendly atmosphere. A Mecca for tapas and Madrid parties, it's the ideal place to discover the popular spirit of the capital.
CHAMBERÍ - Madrid's understated elegance
A refined residential district, Chamberí has a quiet atmosphere, charming squares, little-known museums and traditional taverns. Another facet of Madrid, away from the hustle and bustle of tourism.
CHUECA - The vibrant, cosmopolitan district
Madrid's trendy Chueca district is renowned for its festive atmosphere, elegant cafés, trendy boutiques and lively nightlife. As the epicentre of the LGBTQ+ community, it embodies the diversity and modernity of the Spanish capital.
LAS LETRAS - Madrid's literary quarter
Once a haven for some of Spain's greatest writers of the Golden Age, Las Letras is now a district with a bohemian atmosphere, cobbled streets and lively cafés. Combining culture, history and gastronomy, it embodies the literary soul of Madrid.
LAVAPIÉS - The cosmopolitan, alternative neighbourhood
Once a working-class suburb of Madrid, Lavapiés is now a multicultural, bohemian district. With its street art, world cuisine and artistic atmosphere, it embodies the diversity and creative energy of the capital.
SALAMANCA - Madrid's chic neighbourhood
A symbol of elegance and refinement, the Salamanca district is renowned for its majestic avenues, luxury boutiques, gourmet restaurants and prestigious museums. This is the place to be if you want to discover the most sophisticated Madrid.
MADRID PARKS AND GARDENS
ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDEN - A haven of greenery in the heart of Madrid
Founded in the 18th century, the Royal Botanic Garden is home to thousands of plant species from all over the world. Located next to the Prado Museum, it is an ideal oasis for strolling around and discovering the wealth of flora.
LA CASA DE CAMPO - Madrid's green lung
Formerly a royal hunting reserve, Casa de Campo is now Madrid's largest park, a true nature getaway on the outskirts of the city.
With its lakes, forests and footpaths, it's an ideal place to go for a walk, do some sport or simply enjoy a moment of relaxation. It also boasts a zoo and an amusement park, making it a popular leisure area for locals and visitors alike.
PARC DU RETIRO - Madrid's iconic garden
The green lung of the capital and a former royal estate, Retiro Park is a must-see place where nature, culture and relaxation come together. Its large pool, statues and glass and brick palaces make it a unique space.
VISTILLAS GARDEN - A balcony overlooking Madrid
Perched on a hill in the La Latina district, the Jardin des Vistillas is a haven of greenery with one of the finest views of the Casa de Campo and Almudena Cathedral. A peaceful place that combines nature, history and Madrid tradition.
JARDINS DE SABATINI - Elegance at the foot of the Palais Royal
Created in the 1930s, the Sabatini Gardens offer a refined neoclassical setting. With their symmetrical hedges, ponds and uninterrupted views of the Royal Palace, they are one of Madrid's most elegant green spaces.
PARC DE L'OUEST - Nature and history on the doorstep of the city centre
Located near the Plaza de España, the Parc de l'Ouest is one of Madrid's largest green spaces. With its shady paths, rose gardens, panoramic views and the famous Temple of Debod, it combines relaxation, culture and unique landscapes.
MADRID RÍO PARK - The city along the Manzanares river
Built along the banks of the Manzanares River, the Parc Madrid Río is a vast, modern green space that breathes new life into the banks of the river. With its designer walkways, leisure areas and panoramic views, it has become one of Madrid's favourite places to stroll, play sport or simply relax.
AROUND MADRID
ALCALÁ DE HENARES - The city of Cervantes
Around thirty kilometres from Madrid, Alcalá de Henares has a historic centre that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixotethe city combines heritage, culture and a university atmosphere. Its cobbled streets, patios and Renaissance monuments invite you to take a trip back in time.
ÁVILA - The city of eternal walls
Just 100 km from Madrid, Ávila impresses with its imposing medieval walls, one of the best preserved in Europe. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city combines history, spirituality and Castilian charm. Its crenellated towers, Romanesque churches and cobbled streets make it a true immersion in the Spanish Middle Ages.
EL ESCORIAL - The Monastery of the Kings
Nestling at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama, the monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial embodies the power and faith of Golden Age Spain. Built in the 16th century during the reign of Philip II, it was at once a royal palace, a monastery and a dynastic pantheon. Its austere facades and immense basilica are as impressive as its rich libraries and art collections.
SEGOVIA - Between Roman aqueduct and fairytale castle
Just an hour from Madrid, Segovia boasts a monumental Roman aqueduct, a fairytale Alcázar and a soaring Gothic cathedral. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Castilian city combines a thousand years of history, art and renowned gastronomy.
TOLÈDE - The city of three cultures
The former capital of Spain, Toledo fascinates visitors with its exceptional heritage, combining Christian, Jewish and Muslim influences. Perched high above the Tagus and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city offers a unique journey through history and art.
LOS CAÍDOS VALLEY - Memory and controversy
A few kilometres from El Escorial, the Valle de los Caídos impresses with its basilica carved out of the mountain and its gigantic 150-metre stone cross. Designed after the Spanish Civil War, it remains a place of remembrance marked by history, a place of homage, meditation and debate.
ARANJUEZ - The Royal Gardens of Spain
Just 50 km south of Madrid, Aranjuez is a charming place, with its royal palace and vast gardens listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the spring residence of the kings of Spain, the town combines elegance, nature and history in a peaceful atmosphere on the banks of the Tagus.