Why Is Madrid Airport Called Barajas?

By Anna Duncan

Have you ever wondered why Madrid’s airport is called Barajas? It is a question that many travelers ask when they arrive in the Spanish capital. The answer lies in the history of the area where the airport is located.

The Origin of Barajas

In the early 1900s, the area known as Barajas was a small farming community on the outskirts of Madrid. It was named after a nearby river called Barajas, which flowed through the area. The name derived from Arabic origins and means “rocky ground.”

The Birth of Madrid’s Airport

In 1927, Spain’s first commercial airport was inaugurated in Madrid, and it was located in the nearby town of Getafe. However, due to its limited space and constant fog problems during winter months, it became clear that a new airport was needed.

The Search for a New Location

After considering several options, including Toledo and Alcalá de Henares, the authorities finally settled on Barajas due to its location outside Madrid’s city center and its proximity to major highways.

The Development of Barajas Airport

Construction began in 1933, and by 1939, Barajas had become Spain’s main international airport. Over time, it grew to become one of Europe’s busiest airports serving millions of passengers each year.

Conclusion

Today, Barajas is known worldwide as Madrid’s primary international airport. Its history is deeply intertwined with that of its surrounding area and serves as a reminder of how important transportation infrastructure has been for Spain’s growth and development.

If you are planning to visit Spain or just curious about its history, make sure to visit Barajas airport!