This imposing tree-lined avenue, adorned with fountains and sculptures, is home to no fewer than three world-class art galleries: the Prado, the Reina Sofía and the Thyssen-Bornemisza. In the 18th century the prado was a meadow, crossed by a stream, but the bucolic surroundings were deceptive, as the area was acquiring an unsavoury reputation for muggings and amorous encounters. The solution, devised by Charles IV, was a new boulevard between Plaza de Cibeles and Plaza de Atocha, lined with handsome buildings devoted to the pursuit of scientific inquiry. Work began in 1775 on a museum of natural history (now the Prado), the botanical gardens and observatory and medical school (now the Reina Sofía).
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The main transport hub, has a surprising tropical forest inside it complete with terrapins. Have a relaxing drink at the cafe for a ringside seat. Like the rest of Madrid it was very reasonably priced.
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This busy roundabout is named after Antonio Canovas del Castillo, one of the leading statesman of 19th-century Spain, who was assassinated in 1897. Dominating the plaza is the Fuente de Neptuno-a fountain with a statue depicting Neptune in his chariot, being pulled by two horses. The statue was designed in 1780 by Ventura Rodriguez as part of Carlos III' scheme to beautify eastern Madrid.
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Rembrandt: History PainterMadrid's star exhibition for autumn/winter 2008 is Rembrandt: History Painter (Historias de Rembrandt). The collection at The Prado Museum features 35 paintings and prints by the Dutch... Read more
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Madrid CarnivalIf you can't make it out as far as the Canary Islands, don't worry - Madrid's carnival may not be the most raucous, but it certainly finishes in style. Read more
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Madrid International Fashion WeekTwice a year, the Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I (IFEMA) in Madrid hosts the Madrid International Fashion Week (SIMM), the most important female fashion exhibition in the country. Read more
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Madrid International Contemporary Art FairAnyone who is anyone in the art world attends the colossal Madrid International Contemporary Art Fair, or ARCO, at the Parque Ferial Juan Carlos 1 (IFEMA). The show features modern and contemporary... Read more
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