Madrid

Madrid is the capital and largest city of Spain, located in the centre of the Iberian Peninsula. At an elevation of about 650 metres above sea level, it is one of the highest national capitals in Europe. The city lies on a plateau known as the Meseta Central, and its inland position gives it a continental Mediterranean climate. Summers are generally hot and dry, while winters are cooler, with occasional frost and rainfall.

The Manzanares River crosses the western part of the city, and large green areas such as El Retiro Park and Casa de Campo form important parts of its urban landscape. Madrid is also the political, economic and administrative centre of Spain. Its transport system includes extensive metro and railway networks, while Madrid-Barajas Airport connects the city with destinations across Europe and the rest of the world. The metropolitan area extends well beyond the municipal boundaries and is one of the largest urban regions in the country.

Madrid became Spain's permanent capital in 1561, when King Philip II moved the royal court there from Valladolid. The decision helped transform a relatively modest town into an important political and cultural centre. The city later expanded around the royal palace and major public institutions, while new neighbourhoods developed beyond the historic centre. Madrid's cultural heritage includes the Royal Palace, the Plaza Mayor and the Prado Museum, which houses major works of European art.

The city also contains numerous universities, theatres, libraries and research institutions. Its central location has long made Madrid an important meeting point between different parts of Spain. Today, historic buildings and traditional neighbourhoods coexist with modern business districts, residential areas and large public spaces. Madrid therefore combines its role as the country's political capital with a broad cultural and economic influence that extends across Spain.