Madrid, the capital city of Spain, is a wonderful destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, culture, and modernity. If you’re planning to visit Madrid, it’s essential to know about the various cities that make up this vibrant region. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the cities that are in Madrid, Spain.
1. Alcalá de Henares
Alcalá de Henares is a city located in the autonomous community of Madrid. It’s known for its rich history and cultural heritage.
The city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 due to its well-preserved historic center. Alcalá de Henares is also notable as the birthplace of the famous Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes.
Highlights:
- The University of Alcalá
- The birthplace and museum of Miguel de Cervantes
- The historic center with notable architecture from various periods
2. Aranjuez
Aranjuez is another city within the Madrid region that’s worth exploring. The city is located on the banks of the Tagus River and boasts stunning gardens and palaces that were once used as summer residences by Spanish royalty.
- The Royal Palace of Aranjuez with its beautiful gardens and fountains
- The Casa del Labrador, a neoclassical building that was used as a hunting lodge by King Charles IV
- The Jardín del Príncipe (Prince’s Garden), which has been designated as a Historic-Artistic Garden.
3. San Lorenzo de El Escorial
San Lorenzo de El Escorial is a town located in the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range. It’s known for its stunning natural surroundings and the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, which was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.
- The Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, which houses the pantheon of Spanish Kings
- The Casita del Infante, a neoclassical building that was used as a summer residence by King Charles IV
- The Herrería Forest, which is a protected area with hiking trails and stunning views of the mountains
4. Chinchón
Chinchón is a charming town located southeast of Madrid. The town is known for its picturesque Plaza Mayor, which has been used as a filming location for various movies and TV shows.
- The Plaza Mayor, which is surrounded by traditional buildings and features a unique circular shape
- The Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, which dates back to the 16th century and houses beautiful artwork
- The Castle-Palace of the Counts of Chinchón, which is now used as the town hall.
In conclusion, Madrid is not just limited to its bustling capital city but also includes many beautiful cities and towns that showcase Spain’s rich history and culture. Exploring these cities will give you an excellent opportunity to discover Spain’s diverse regions while experiencing its unique charm.