John and I spent last evening exploring the neighborhood behind the Westin where we are staying. It is a warren of narrow streets winding around the area filled with bars, restaurants, shops, mini-markets and people - lots of people.
Today we went on a bus and walking tour of Madrid where over 3 million people call home. In 711 AD the Muslims came up from the south and conquered Spain. But in 1085 the Christians claimed the country and many Jews lived here until they were run out in 1492. In 1561 they crowned a king and became a monarchy.
We had a short stop to walk around the outside of the Bull Fight Stadium where bull fights are regularly held.
Our walk took us by the Royal Palace (the royals are not in residence) and we happened to see the changing of the guard ceremony. Then on to the City Square with buildings from the 14th, 16th, and 17th centuries. The San Miguel Market Place is an 18th century building of glass, steel, and iron. A short walk though a pedestrian shopping district took us to the Plaza Mayor. John is pretty sure we visited this area 35 years ago on one of our first visits to Spain.
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