
We learned quite a few interesting facts like how the Philippines was named after the king Philip II of Spain.
We got to see an original of the cartography of the time. I took a picture of the map cause I was so fascinated by not only the nations, the devision of land and the names but mostly of how Australia is basically Antarctica at the south end of the world.
After the palace we made our hungry way back into Madrid where we went for some traditional Paella and Churros. I absolutely love Spain's obsession with chocolate as I share it. There is even a place in Madrid where you can get a cup of pure melted chocolate and just drink it! TOO GOOD!
The next day we spent the day walking around Madrid and admiring all the architecture! It's all so beautiful and so different from what I am used to seeing in France. Unfortunately the days were quite grey and gloomy so all the vibrant spirit of france was lost under the rain and the umbrellas. Having said that, there was still something beautiful about it's sadness.
My last day in Madrid was definitely the best of all the days! I went to the Reina Sofia Museum of Modern Art. I got to see beautiful pieces by Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali and so many more Spanish artists! It's cool how the spanish esthetic is so apparent in the work of every spaniard. Something so uniquely spanish bleeds from each artist.
The Museum is set up in a way that takes you through the modern history of the country and works are organized in such a way that describes the struggle of the spanish people. I felt that laying out the exhibits in this way really captured me. As I am someone who really loves the story of human struggle, I felt like I could follow along and that the paintings of artists I had never heard of meant so much more to me! I would recommend this museum to anyone passing through Madrid! A must visit!
After the Museum I met up with Lisa as we had a dinner date. We went out to this cute Cuban restaurant. It was decked out with Cuban pictures and memorabilia. Even the food was reminiscent of our Cuban experience... although I'm not sure if that is a good thing. After dinner we had reservations at a Flamenco dance show. This was very exciting for me as I've waited my whole life to see a legit Flamenco show! Both Lisa and I were very impressed by the whole thing. This dance possesses so much power and passion. You can see, hear and feel it in every step, every clap, every stare. I really did love it and I know that when I return to Spain in February that I will be going to see another for sure!
I can't say Madrid is my favorite city but I am definitely very happy to have experienced it. It is a big busy city and it definitely looses some of it's spanish charm within it all, but there are definitely hidden gems throughout it all which should not go unseen. If you are ever planning on visiting Madrid I would recommend that you do your research and come with a plan on what to do and see, as the sights and attractions are what make the city.