DK Travel : Madrid

Madrid’s three world-class art museums and two royal palaces alone would set the pulses racing, but there is more to this exciting and diverse capital than its tourist sights. The fashion boutiques of the Salamanca district showcase Europe’s top designers and are just the tip of a shopping iceberg, perfectly complementing the informality of the fascinating El Rastro market, while Madrid’s world-famous tapas bars vie for attention with gourmet restaurants and humble tabernas in a city which never sleeps. To simply watch the world go by, head for the supremely elegant Plaza Mayor.

Husa Serrano Royal

This small hotel is close to the designer stores of Calle Serrano (see El Jardín de Serrano) (see Galería ABC Serrano). Refurbished in 1999, the rooms are comfortable and large. Facilities include a garage and business centre.
Iglesia de las Salesas Reales

The monastery of the Royal Salesians was founded by the wife of Fernando VI, as a refuge from her overbearing mother-inlaw should the king die before her (in fact, she died first). You can still see the lavish Baroque church (1750), sculptures and decorative details on the façade and the tombs of Fernando and his wife by Francesco Gutiérrez.
Iglesia de San Antonio de los Alemanes

The entire surface area of this magnificent domed church is covered with 17th-century frescoes depicting scenes from the life of St Anthony of Padua. The congregation included the sick and indigent residents of the adjoining hospice, who were allocated a daily ration of bread and boiled eggs. (The church still has a soup kitchen).
Iglesia de San Jerónimo el Real

Though much altered over the years, this 16th-century church is an important architectural monument. It has also been a place of refuge for Spanish kings and queens through the ages. The current king, Juan Carlos I, was crowned here in 1975 (see Iglesia de San Jerónimo el Real).
Iglesia de San Jerónimo el Real

The Castilian parliament, the Cortes, met in this historic church for the first time in 1510.
Iglesia San Plácido

Founded in 1622 by Don Jerónimo de Villanueva, a Madrid nobleman, the early history of this convent was darkened by scandal. Rumours of sexual misconduct among the novices led to an investigation by the Inquisition which implicated the chaplain, the abbess and the Don himself. It was even rumoured that Felipe IV made nocturnal visits to the convent via a passageway under the street. Today the main attraction is the splendid Baroque church (1655). The retable over the altar contains a magnificent Annunciation by Claudio Coello.
Inglés

Founded in 1853, this family-run hotel is close to the Prado and the nightlife around Sol and Plaza Santa Ana. The rooms are spotless and comfortable, though those overlooking the street can be noisy. Excellent value and there’s even a gym. Book ahead.
Iñski Sampedro

This artisan makes exclusive hand-painted, leather handbags. Original jewellery made by Minorcan craftsmen is also sold here. Note the shop lamp, one of Sampedro’s own creations.
Insurrection

On 2 May 1808, two months after a French army occupied the city, the people of Madrid rose in revolt. Fierce street battles were fought, while the troops of the Monteléon barracks mutinied in support of the rebels. But within a few hours, the insurrection had been crushed and the leaders were executed by firing squad.
Iroco

Spanish cuisine with a ranger of international influences. There is a small terrace available in good weather.

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