Everything Everywhere Daily Madrid
Dec 20, 2023
Learn about the fascinating history of Madrid, its growth into a major city, the Siege of Madrid during the Spanish Civil War, and the notable attractions in the city. Discover Madrid's origins, transformation into the capital of the Spanish Empire, and its central location and high-speed rail network.
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Unusual Geographic Location of Madrid
- Madrid is centrally located on a high plateau with no major navigable river or natural harbor.
- Its geography is unusual for a major city, which makes its rise to prominence intriguing.
Madrid's Origin as a Fortress
- Madrid began as a fortress built by the Emir of Cordoba between 852 and 886.
- Its strategic location served to control local uprisings and became an Islamic-Caliphate border outpost.
Why Madrid Became Capital
- King Philip II moved his court to Madrid in 1561, making it the de facto capital.
- Madrid's central, neutral location was ideal for managing a diverse empire and defensibility.