The Monument to Alfonso XII is, given its size and grandeur, the most important structure existing both in the Retiro Park and in the city of Madrid. Its construction is the result of the wishes expressed by Queen Maria Cristina, widow of King Alfonso XII, making a building in memory of the late king. Continue reading “Monument to Alfonso XII”
Category: Briefs
Temple of Debod
Walking at night near the Plaza of Spain in Madrid we find this wonder, the Temple of Debod. With about 2200 years old, she was donated to Spain by the Egyptian government in 1968 to prevent it from being flooded upon of the construction of the Aswan High Dam. Continue reading “Temple of Debod”
Church of “San Gil” and “Santa Ana” – Granada
Located on the left bank of the Darro River on a small square annexed to the area dominated by the “Plaza Nueva”, the Church of Santa Ana, also known as Church of San Gil and Santa Ana, is part of set of Mudejar churches in the city of Granada . Continue reading “Church of “San Gil” and “Santa Ana” – Granada”
Gateway to Alcalá
If you visit Madrid and not get to view the “Puerta de Alcalá”, you are missing out on one of the most representative symbols of the Spanish capital. Carlos III organized a competition to select the design of a gateway that would replace the prevailing XVI century gate and which would commemorate his entry into Madrid as king. The winning design was submitted by Francesco Sabatini, who built the “Puerta de Alcalá” in 1778. It is considered Historic-Artistic Monument, being one of the five royal gateways that grant access to Madrid. Continue reading “Gateway to Alcalá”
Royal Palace of Madrid
Visiting the Royal Palace of Madrid is an experience you should not miss, being one of the most visited monuments in Spain. From Carlos III to Alfonso XIII, it has served as the official residence of the Royal Family. However, the current monarchs, but do not reside here rather their residence is the Palacio de la Zarzuela, nonetheless it is still used for state ceremonies and solemn events. Continue reading “Royal Palace of Madrid”
Giralda of Seville
Known as the Giralda of Seville or simply the Giralda Tower, is undoubtedly a must see when visiting the city. To climb the bell tower, you must have the proper physical condition. Fortunately, climbing the 35 floors is via a ramp, which at times seemed endless. When you reach the top, you’ll realize it was worth the effort. The panoramic views are the most impressive of Sevilla. Continue reading “Giralda of Seville”
Jacinto Benavente y Martínez
In the Buen Retiro park, we find the Monument to Jacinto Benavente by the sculptor Victorio Macho and inaugurated on April 24, 1962. Continue reading “Jacinto Benavente y Martínez”
The Nogal Baths
Since the late nineteenth century, the Nogal Baths have been known by the name of “Bañuelo”, diminutive used to describe because of its size, the smallest of the royal baths in the “Alhambra”. Continue reading “The Nogal Baths”
Cathedral of Cordoba
When you encounter the Cathedral of Cordoba, one is astonished by all the architectural details that it has as well as its location. In the sixteenth century, Bishop Manrique is granted permission to build the cathedral inside the mosque by Carlos V, both agreeing that the Alhaken II expansion of the Mosque be respected and left unaltered. Continue reading “Cathedral of Cordoba”
Peñaflor Palace
Peñaflor Palace in Ecija, Sevilla Province, also known as the “long balconies” was built in the eighteenth century. Continue reading “Peñaflor Palace”