Author Archives: julieovaltrades

Widely dubbed as one of the coolest and bohemian barrios in Madrid you will find a balance of two distinct pictures in Lavapies. Translating to ‘wash feet’ – where the name came from, no one knows for certain, but the … Continue reading →

Thousands of restaurants fill the foodie city of Madrid, whether you are looking for a spot with hundreds of years of history, the perfect tapas joint, regional cuisine, or to discover a literal hidden gem – here are some of … Continue reading →

In the 2nd Century BC along the Nile River valley a shrine was constructed by King Adikhalamani of Meroe, dedicated to Isis. It was said that the goddess gave birth to Horus the sky god within the Temple of Debod. … Continue reading →

Whether you have a ticket in hand or you’re just exploring the neighborhood, it’s always a good idea to venture into Atocha Station. Spain’s largest railway located in Madrid made its debut in 1851, in a wrought iron renewal style … Continue reading →

With 3,418 rooms, the enormous baroque style Royal Palace of Madrid is the largest working palace in all of Europe. It may be the official home of the Spanish Monarchy, but today it is mainly used for state services. King … Continue reading →

From 1630 onward, the Spanish Monarchy enjoyed bullfights and mock naval battles with their guests in a tract of land that would eventually become El Retiro Park. In the late 19th century, the 350 acre green space would become a … Continue reading →

It’s hard to believe that the lavishly intricate white façade of Palacio de Cibeles was designed as a post office! Once named the Palace of Communication and opened in 1919, the architecture is a result of a contest won by … Continue reading →

Translating to meadow, Prado couldn’t be a more apt name for Spain’s national art museum, surrounded by green gardens and tranquil woods. The sun was shining and parrots were singing in Madrid as I entered the two hundred year old … Continue reading →

Celebrating Spanish art in the 20th century, Museo Reina Sofía is a place to spend hours devouring all of the Miró, Picasso, and Dalí’s in Madrid. Housed in an 18th century hospital, the museum has a collection over 22,400 works. … Continue reading →

The center of Spain both geographically and metaphorically, Madrid is a whirlwind of art, tapas, and history. Capital of the country and home of the Spanish monarchy, no trip to the city is complete without visiting the Royal Palace of … Continue reading →