| MADRID |
~2001~ Madrid - January 2001 Toledo - January 2001 Granada - January 2001 Seville - January 2001 Salamanca - January 2001 Lisbon - January 2001 Coimbra - January 2001 Fatima - January 2001 London - January 2001 Barcelona - June 2001 Zurich - June 2001 My Travel My Reflection |
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| With a population of just under three million, Madrid is Europe�s fourth largest city � after London, Paris and Milan � and its highest capital, at 650m (2132ft) above sea level. The repression and torpor of the Franco era (1939�75) are now all but forgotten by Madrile�os who, perhaps more than any other Spaniards, are determined to vivir a tope (live life to the full). The craving for conspicuous enjoyment, not to mention the 2800 hours of annual sunshine, turn the streets into bustling centres of public display. Madrid�s infectious and colourful fiestas punctuate the year, with each barrio (district) trying to outdo the other in its celebrations . The highlights include Reyes Magos (Feast of the Three Kings), Carnival, the religious processions of Holy Week, the San Isidro festival in May (the beginning of the bullfighting season) and Nochevieja (New Year�s Eve), when the Puerta del Sol becomes the focal point during several hours of uninhibited partying. Visitors should also look out for the major cultural festivals, notably the Veranos de la Villa in summer and the autumn Festival de Oto�o, embracing film, dance, theatre and music of every description. Although Madrid�s climate is more extreme than other Spanish locations, the warm dry summers and cool winters still allow for many alfresco activities. |
| Madrid becomes capital only in the second half of the 16th century, but it oozes a vitality and character that rarely fails to move. In no other European capital will you find the city centre so thronged so late into the night, as though some unwritten law forbade sleeping before dawn. Madrid has always been a city of immigrants and transients, and the result is an unusually open and accessible city. Ambitious programs to modernise the city are afoot, but the gatos (locals) of Madrid can rest assured that their town remains as refreshingly unlike Paris, London or Rome as ever. |
| Plaza Mayor |
| ~ TRAIN OF TIME ~ (I) I hear the tapping of the wheels As the quickly roll along the track Softly, gently, continuing Tapping on my mind & soul My minds distracted & confused On my way to destination unknown Frightened, uncertain & confused |
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