Spain from A to Z

Retiro, the Casa de Campo and Juan Carlos I Park invite you to take a stroll, row a boat and feed the squirrels in one of the greenest cities in Europe. The most characteristic feature of Madrid is the infectious lust for life, reflected in the various folk festivals of the city and of the region . Concerts, exhibits, ballet, theatre, cinema and a wide range of culinary facilities round out the recreational and entertainment possibilities. The lively Madrid nightlife is fuelled by an endless number of bars, pubs, nightclubs and flamenco venues, and is another attraction of the Spanish capital.

of the region of Catalonia. In this elegant business metropolis you will find remains from the Roman era, the districts of the medieval city, and stunning Modernist and Art Nouveau buildings from the avant-garde movements of the 20th century. It is of no surprise that the architecture of Catalonians Antoni Gaudí and Lluís Doménech i Montaner are UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites. Barcelona’s seaport and its lively trade have boosted the city’s prosperity over the centuries, which is particularly apparent in its rich art history and the fostering of new artistic trends. The Mediterranean nature of the city is present in the magnificent beaches of the Barcelona coast, as well as in the numerous sporting marinas and golf courses with fantastic views of the sea. Nature lovers are not far from the mountains of the Catalan Pyrenees. Folk culture

and long-standing traditions also play a major role, such as the La Mercè celebrations and festivals in the districts of Gràcia, Sants and Poblenou. Tradition and modernity also combine to create an innovative cuisine, based on local vegetables, fresh fish, sausages and cold meats and olive oil, as well as traditional pastry and Cava (sparkling wines).

www.barcelonaturisme.com

Barcelona

www.esmadrid.com

BARCELONA Barcelona is located right on the Mediterranean, and is the capital

Our Cities    9