Madrid is a beautiful city that is filled with rich history and culture. The city has been around for centuries, and its origins can be traced back to the 9th century when it was first established as a fortress by the Muslim rulers.
Over the years, Madrid has undergone various transformations and has been shaped by different cultures and civilizations. So, who built Madrid? Let’s take a look at the different influences that have contributed to the city’s development.
The Muslims
As mentioned earlier, Madrid was initially established as a fortress by the Muslims in the 9th century. The fortress was built on the banks of the Manzanares River and served as a strategic location for controlling central Spain. The Muslims ruled over Madrid for over two centuries before they were defeated by King Alfonso VI in 1085.
The Christians
After their victory over the Muslims, the Christians took over Madrid and made it an important center of their kingdom. They began constructing religious buildings such as churches and monasteries, which still stand today as some of Madrid’s most iconic landmarks. One such example is the Almudena Cathedral, which took over 100 years to complete.
The Bourbons
In the 18th century, King Philip V of Spain belonged to the Bourbon dynasty that had its roots in France. He wanted to modernize Madrid and transform it into a grand capital city that would rival other European cities like Paris and London. To achieve this vision, he commissioned architects to design new buildings such as Palacio Real (Royal Palace), which is one of Madrid’s most impressive buildings.
The Dictatorship
During Francisco Franco’s dictatorship from 1939-1975, Madrid underwent significant changes in terms of urban planning and architecture. Many old buildings were demolished to make way for new ones that reflected Franco’s ideological vision of Spain. One notable example is the Edificio España, which was built during this time and is one of Madrid’s tallest buildings.
The Modern Era
In recent times, Madrid has continued to evolve and develop. Architects and urban planners have worked to preserve the city’s historical heritage while also introducing modern designs. The city has become a hub for contemporary art and architecture, with buildings like the CaixaForum Madrid showcasing innovative designs.
Conclusion
So, who built Madrid? The answer is that many different cultures and civilizations have contributed to the city’s development. From the Muslims who established it as a fortress to the Christians who built religious structures, to the Bourbons who transformed it into a grand capital city, to Franco’s dictatorship that brought about significant changes in urban planning and architecture, and finally to the modern era that continues to shape Madrid today.
Whether you’re interested in history or architecture, Madrid has something for everyone. Its rich cultural heritage combined with modern innovations make it a unique and fascinating destination for travelers from all over the world.