Is Madrid Northern Spain?

By Anna Duncan

Madrid is one of the most popular cities in Spain, known for its historical architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. However, there has been a lot of debate surrounding whether Madrid is considered Northern Spain or not. In this article, we’ll explore the geography and history of Madrid to determine its location in Spain.

Geography of Madrid

Madrid is the capital city of Spain and is located in the center of the country. It is situated on a plateau called Meseta Central and is surrounded by mountains. The city’s elevation is 667 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest capital cities in Europe.

Location Relative to Other Spanish Cities

When looking at a map of Spain, Madrid may seem like it’s located in Northern Spain. However, when compared to other major Spanish cities such as Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, and Malaga, it becomes apparent that Madrid is actually located more towards the center of the country.

The History of Madrid

Madrid has a rich history that dates back to the 9th century when Muslims ruled over much of Spain. The city was founded as a fortress by Muhammad I of Cordoba in 852 AD. It wasn’t until later on that Madrid became an important cultural center during the Habsburg dynasty in the 16th century.

Influence from Northern Spain

Although Madrid may not be considered part of Northern Spain geographically speaking, it has been heavily influenced by this region throughout history. During the Habsburg dynasty, many architects from Northern Spain were brought to Madrid to design buildings such as the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while some may argue that Madrid falls under Northern Spain because of its proximity to mountains and higher elevation than other Spanish cities such as Barcelona and Valencia it’s not quite correct. Madrid is actually located in the center of Spain, and its history has been heavily influenced by Northern Spain. Regardless of whether it’s considered Northern or not, Madrid remains one of the most iconic cities in Spain and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Europe.