The power of the Flamenco is not in the art of its choreography but the raw energy of its performance; as it is with Madrid, which lacks the architectural inspiration of Barcelona or the romantic iconography of Paris but retains an urban pulse to rival any city in Europe.
There’s plenty of understated beauty along the Neoclassical terraces, not to mention a fine Baroque Palace constructed by the Bourbon Kings, but Madrid’s soul lies more in its tapas bars and all-night clubs, its stage shows and astonishing art galleries, and the style and grace of a people still ready to make you one of their own.
To truly understand Madrid, you need to understand Spain’s kaleidoscopic culture; from the Basque country to Catalonia there are seven officially recognised languages and no single Spanish identity. Madrid has been called the most Spanish of Spanish cities perhaps because its where those separate peoples meet and intermingle, creating a diverse and fiery cultural landscape where no-one need feel a stranger for long.
Where to stay
The gracious staff and superlative service at the Best Western Atlantico have made it one of the Travellers’ Choice top 25 hotels in Europe for 2010. Catalonia Las Cortes is an elegant and supremely comfortable alternative.
Where to eat
Up and coming chef Sergi Arola has won two Michelin stars for the excellent Catalan cuisine served at La Broche. He trained under the great Ferran Adrià, creator of world-famous Bulli, who is responsible for the molecular gastronomy at La Terraza del Casino.
What to see
The Prado Museum has one of the largest collections of art in the world, including famous works by Velasquez, Goya and El Greco. The street market at Mercado San Miguel is a great place to eat, drink and experience Madrid’s wildly beating heart.
