DK Travel : Madrid : Top 10 Figures in Madrid History

Madrid : Top 10 Figures in Madrid History

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1. Al Mundhir

According to some historians, Muhammed I’s son was the true founder the city.
2. Isidro Merlo y Quintana

This devout farm labourer inspired miracles after his death in 1172 and became the city’s patron saint (San Isidro).
3. Felipe II

When in Madrid the king stayed in the Alcázar or with the monks of San Jerónimo monastery.
4. Félix Lope de Vega

Spain’s greatest playwright was banned from Madrid for eight years after libelling the father of his former lover.
5. Carlos III

Madrid’s “best mayor” spent little of the first part of his reign in the city, but his long-term impact is undeniable.
6. Luis Daoíz

With Pedro Velarde, Daoíz led the insurrection against the French in 1808 and died in the fighting.
7. Joseph Bonaparte

Detested during his short reign as King of Spain (1808–12), he did plan one of the city’s finest squares, Plaza de Oriente.
8. Gustavo Durán

One of the most courageous commanders defending Madrid during the Civil War.
9. Francisco Franco

Statues around the city that once honoured the former dictator have all been removed.
10. Enrique Tierno Galván

Madrid’s most popular mayor (elected 1979) embraced the movida (see Enrique Tierno Galván).