MadridBLOG
Archives September 2008
Madrid offers a wide artistic range, influenced by the many styles that have marked the city through the centuries.
From the ruins of the ancient Arab wall,
to small Gothic-style churches, and early Renaissance constructions,
Madrid's development is a showcase for a variety of artistic periods.
Madrid owes its name to the Arabic Magerit or "mother of the waters", which was the name given to the fortress in the bank of the Manzanares River, built by the Omayyad from Cordoba,
Muhammad (823-886). Although it grew under Arab rule for two hundred
years, little is left of the Arab presence: only some ruins of the wall
are preserved, and a tower, which was later turned into a bellower.
With the coming of the Austrias in the 16th century
and the height of their splendour in the 17th century, the great
monuments of Madrid began to emerge in the area that is nowadays
referred to as the Madrid de los Austrias, one of the
most famous areas of the city where, in addition to the Plaza Mayor,
there are many outstanding spots, churches, and convents, full of art
and atmosphere. The austere façades of the Baroque style contrast with the lavish interiors of the palaces.
