Demonios En Madrid

A short train trip and we were back in Madrid to be reacquainted with this lovely city.  It was nice to see that the welcome banners to the refugees were still in place. 

at the railway station??

Our first stop was the Thyssen-Bornemisza de Madrid.  This wonderful museum has nearly a thousand artworks on display and we spent considerable time wandering about the gallery viewing works by Rubens, Cezanne and Van Gogh among others.  My favourite piece was The Annunciation by El Greco.

 

We also spent a quick hour at the Prado, which opens without charge after 6.00pm.  We literally jogged through the gallery re-visiting the fabulous works by Bosch and, of course, El Greco.

 

The next day we visited the Royal Palace of Madrid which is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family (although now it is only used for state ceremonies).  The palace was built in 1755 on the site of the old Alcazar.  It is the largest royal palace in Europe by floor area and is filled with artwork by many artists including Caravaggio, Tiepolo and de Goya.  There is also the Royal Armoury and a number of musical instruments including the world’s only complete Stradivarius string quartet.  We were able to tour the various apartments, the banqueting hall, chapel and the Crown Room.  It was all very ornate with beautiful painted ceilings although the rooms and furnishings were looking a little tired and could do with some restoration works.

The rest of our time in Madrid was spent wandering the streets, enjoying tapas and visiting the various food markets including the fabulous Mercado de San Miguel.  The food there is amazing however, as Michael pointed out, they have become a victim of their own success, as the stalls are so crowded that it is almost impossible to push your way through.  It is well worth persevering though.  We also re-visited the El Rastro flea market and Michael was able to pick up an early Christmas present of a very nice leather satchel for work.   

Our final night in Madrid proved to be a highlight of the trip.  Michael found what can only be described as a unique restaurant to dine in.  The restaurant was called Don Quijote Madness and it was a wonderful experience to dine there.  The concept of the restaurant is to inspire you to read the book by displaying many artworks, photos and memorabilia connected with the story.  The owner is passionate about the subject and took time to show Michael and I many interesting objects and let us listen to a recording explaining how the book has influenced many people including artists and singers.  When I showed interest in the "women's section" of the restaurant, the owner produced a copy of the English translation of what is recognised as one of the first feminist speeches in literature from the shepherdess Marcela.  It was all very interesting and the rabbit paella we ordered was quite possibly the best meal we had in Spain.  The concept of the restaurant worked as we were inspired to  purchase a copy of the book and we both intend to read it this year.  It will also be interesting to read the book as I believe that some of the book is set around Toledo, as there were many references and statues of the characters placed throughout the town.  

Don Quixote hat at the restaurant

themes and influences