What Is Madrid Spain Called As?

By Anna Duncan

Madrid, the capital city of Spain, is known by several names. Some of the most popular ones include “El Foro”, “La Villa y Corte”, and “El Oso y el Madroño”. Let’s take a closer look at each one of these.

El Foro

One of Madrid’s most ancient names is “El Foro”. This name dates back to the times when the city was founded by the Moors in the 9th century.

The word “Foro” means forum in Spanish, and it was used to refer to the central meeting place where people would gather to discuss politics, trade, and other important matters. Today, this name is still used by some locals as a nod to Madrid’s rich history.

La Villa y Corte

Another name for Madrid is “La Villa y Corte”, which translates to “The Town and Court” in English. This name was given during the reign of King Philip II in the 16th century when he decided to make Madrid his permanent residence.

The city became not only the political center but also the cultural one, housing many artists and intellectuals. Today, this name represents Madrid’s status as both a historic town and a modern metropolis.

El Oso y el Madroño

Perhaps one of Madrid’s most iconic symbols is its coat of arms featuring a bear (oso) eating from a strawberry tree (madroño). This led to another nickname for Madrid – “El Oso y el Madroño”. The bear and madrone tree can be seen all over Madrid on flags, souvenirs, and even street signs.

In conclusion,

Madrid has many different names that represent its rich history and cultural significance. Whether you refer to it as El Foro or La Villa y Corte, it’s clear that Madrid is a city with a unique identity and an undeniable charm. So next time you’re in Madrid, remember to look for the bear and strawberry tree and experience the beauty of this city for yourself.