Spain/Madrid: Madrid – Exploring the City

The core of Madrid is the old town with several atmospheric squares and a jumble of narrow streets. The two most famous are Plaza Major (the sight of ceremonial king proclamations), and Puerta Del Sol (near the old city gates and it’s also the kilometer zero point for Spain). One can just aimlessly wander around the old town streets and admire the architecture, periodically stopping for a glass of wine and jamon iberico at many of the outdoor restaurants lining up pretty much every street. A little further out from the old town – there are grand avenues with equally grand ornate buildings and monuments gracing all roundabouts – the Cybele’s Fountain is the world-famous symbol of Madrid.