Magic Moments In Madrid
Madrid, the capital and largest city of Spain, is an incredible mix of ancient and modern. It has made full use of the twenty first century technological techniques but still retains old world charm and a vast amout of historical memorabilia.
H
ere are three of the memorable moments I have enjoyed here.
The Prado Museum: One of the great attractions of this muesuem - apart from the 8.600 paintings on display - is the fact that so many people can enjoy a visit for nothing. Every Sunday is a free entry day for everyone. On other days free entry is afforded to senior citizens, anyone under 18, the unemployed and students under 25. Normal entry fee is a reasonable €6,
My memorable moment came early one Wednesday morning. There were few people around and it was in those days when security was not a problem. I found myself alone with with the painting Las Meninas by Velázquez. (That is the picture on the right) This is probably the best known painting on display at the museum and I felt strangely honored to be alone with the work. Velázquez not only provided the Prado with his own works, but his keen eye and sensibility was also responsible for bringing much of the museum's fine collection of Italian masters to Spain.
The Royal Theater: We stopped by this wonderful buidling, known in Spanish as the Teatro Real, hoping to join a group for a tour of the historic landmark. Normally the tours don't go until 12 people are assembled. We waited for almost an hour and no other people turned up and it was appproaching closing time for the tours. The guide kindly offered to take three of us - I with with my wife and son - of our own personal tour. As a result we were able to ask all the questions we wanted and learn so much about this grand old theater. The original design was created in 1818. Extensive renovations were made in the 1990s and the theater reopened in 1997. We marveled at the superb way the décor of the 19th century had been recaptured. This was a magic moment. Hopefully the next magic moment at this building will to be to enjoy some opera or ballet here.
The Ritz Hotel: I have stayed in many of Madrid's fine hotels. But my two-night stop at the Ritz has to be the most memorable. The room was a delight with a hand-made carpet and embroidered bed linens and antique furniture. The marble bathroom had gilded appliances and the service everywhere was swift and silent. My magic moment was to enjoy afternoon tea on the terrace.
Fortunately that visit was before the euro came and prices soared everywhere. The room now sells for €610 a night. I cannot remember what I paid. I just remember the excellent tea.
