Architecture Tour Old Madrid, from the Arabs to the Borbons, trough the Austrias
Overview
We propose that you learn more about the origins of the city from the urban, historical and architectural point of view since the arabs founded it at the end of the 9th century, following with the conquest of the city by Alfonso VI of Castilla in the 11th century or the moment when Felipe II decided to fix the capital in Madrid, in 1561. We will begin in front of the Royal Palace, reviewing its history since the Arabs built the Alcázar, the defensive castle when Madrid was founded till the moment Felipe V ordered to built the Royal Palace as we know today. From there, we will learn more about the history of the Cathedral and the the new Royal Collections Museum designed by Tuñón and Mansilla. We will enjoy the only rests we have of the Arab Wall. Crossing the Viaduct of Segovia, we will enjoy the views of the forest called Casa de Campo, the green lung, three times bigger than Central Park, the King’s private hunting site until 1931 and a Civil War front, stopping at a viewpoint from which we will enjoy the views of part of the cornice of Madrid. We will continue the walk trough, walking throught these old small streets and squares we will arrive to the Square of Puerta Cerrada, one of the old gates of the old city. San Miguel Market will be other of one stops where you could have a drink and tapas after visiting Plaza de la Villa where the old City Hall of the city is located. From there you will learn the history of Plaza Mayor, the best example of castillians squares, built 400 years ago.
What's Included
- The visit led by a local architect who will give you the artistic historical context of the buildings, accompanied by plans and historical photos to understand the urban development of the city in each period.
- Tips
Meeting Location
Plaza de Isabel II
Centro, 28013 Madrid, Spain
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
Plaza Mayor
Madrid, Spain
What To Expect
Teatro Real
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Plaza de Oriente
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Royal Palace of Madrid
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Plaza de Ramales
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Real Iglesia Parroquial de Santiago y San Juan Bautista
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Church of St. Nicholas of the Servitas (San Nicolas de las Servitas)
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Museo de la Catedral de la Almudena
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Arab Wall
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Plaza de la Villa
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Mercado San Miguel
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Plaza Mayor
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Puerta del Sol
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
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Cancellation Policy
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Activity code: C-148549P4
Reviews
Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 15 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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