In 1561, the King of Spain moved the capital to Madrid, and today Madrid has become the political, economic and cultural center of Spain. Madrid has the Spanish Royal Palace, Puerta del Sol (Gate of the Sun) and the Parque del Buen Retiro (Retiro Park). The Real Madrid football club is the pride of the local people.
Madrid was founded as a Muslim castle around the 9th century, and in 1561 King Philip II moved the capital to Madrid. Over the centuries, the original castle was transformed into the magnificent Royal Palace of Madrid. The Spanish Royal Family also built the Buen Retiro Palace in the eastern part of the city, today’s Parque del Buen Retiro. The San Jeronimo Church, the Royal Monastery, and the Teatro Real (Royal Theatre) are also iconic royal architectures in Madrid.
Real Madrid football club is the pride of the people of Madrid. On match days, the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium turns into a sea of happiness. Many world-class stars have played for the team, such as Christiano Ronaldo, Beckham, Owen and Zinedine Zidane. Every time Real Madrid wins a championship, the club holds a grand celebration in the Plaza de Cibeles on the Paseo del Prado.
Sanctuary for Real Madrid Fans
Built in 1947, the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium has a capacity of 80,000 and is the home stadium of the Real Madrid CF. On non-match days, spectators can enter the Bernabeu and visit the dressing rooms, press room, and learn about the team's history and glory.