Madrid Photo Gallery - Part 2

Located in the centre of Spain, my trip to Madrid was mostly spent on day trips in surrounding historic towns. My last day in the country was devoted solely to this city, which meant I didn't have time to explore the museums but to skim through the main sites and walk a lot.

Satisfied with a dose of Spanish royalty, I explored the historic city centre from west to east along Calle Mayor, the medieval main road.

Plaza Mayor was laid out by Felipe II, who made Madrid the capital. Taking 30 years to finish and opened in 1619 as a public meeting place, it saw trials, executions, coronations, demonstrations, bullfights, and more.

The square was indeed grand. Amazed by the colours and architecture, I headed east towards Puerta del Sol, Kilometre Zero.

Sol is the city's main meeting place thanks to a big subway station underneath and a few department stores around it.

I then headed south towards Puerta de Toledo, which was built to celebrate Napoleon's triumphant victory, which upon his defeat, became a symbol of freedom.