From the Arab conquest to ‘la Movida Madrileña’, the culture of Madrid is shaped by a history of religious and class schisms, imperial and national political conflict and dictatorial government — before an economic and cultural triumph in modern times. Madrid has around thirty museums, is home to the ‘Golden Triangle’ of art galleries, numerous theatres and thousands of bars and restaurants. With neighbourhoods catering for its wealthy, fashion-conscious and diverse communities and the late opening of shops, bars and restaurants, Madrileños have a varied and at times frenetic lifestyle — aided by the fiercely protected afternoon siesta. No other capital city integrates the Royal Court, Government, cultural institutions, business districts and bars into such an intense footprint. This book selects some key moments from the history of Madrid that have shaped its unique culture, the main sights associated with it and nearby places to eat — encouraging the visitor to soak up the culture with a drink and tapa in hand! The Culture Lover’s Guide to Madrid explains the driving forces behind the most significant moments in the history of Madrid and the best sights, bars and restaurants that combine to form the culture of Madrid.
