Camino Frances - 2 May 2024 - Free day in Madrid

Exploring Madrid: A Day of History, Art, and Celebration  

 Originally, we had planned to explore Madrid using the Hop On Hop Off Bus, but since we’re on a walking holiday, we decided to stick to our feet—and what a day it turned out to be!  

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we set off for the **Palacio Real de Madrid**. We already knew where it was, thanks to accidentally stumbling upon it the day before. As we approached, I snapped a photo of a dedication monument and used Google Translate (which works offline if you’ve downloaded the language) to decipher the inscription. Roughly translated, it read: *“To the popular heroes who, on May 2, 1808, began in this very place the fight and sacrifice against foreign troops.”* At the time, the significance of the date—May 2—didn’t register with us, but more on that later.  

Louise, Kim & Alison at Templo De Debod

We wandered through the palace gardens, attempting to capture a photo of Alison mid-air. Let’s just say it didn’t go as planned! From there, we walked to the **Templo de Debod**, an ancient Egyptian temple gifted to Spain. Unfortunately, it wasn’t open yet, but standing before its arches, we marveled at how ancient civilizations aligned structures with the sun’s power—a knowledge we, as a modern society, seem to have lost. 

On our way back, we popped into the **Iglesia de Santa Teresa y San José**, a charming little church with an ornate dome at its center. Nearby, we admired the **Fuente del Nacimiento del Agua**, a beautiful fountain that added to the area’s serene atmosphere.  

Inglesia de Santa Teresa y San Jose Church

Next stop: **Plaza de España**, home to the **Monumento a Cervantes**. Here, Kim, Alison, and I indulged in a shared chocolate waffle from the street markets—pure deliciousness! By then, the **Palacio Real** had opened, but the line snaked past the **Catedral de Santa María**. Instead of waiting, we opted to explore the cathedral’s museum. Climbing the stairs to the dome (with a quick puff of Ventolin for one of us), we were rewarded with stunning views. We also ventured into the crypt below, a hauntingly beautiful space. 

As we stepped back onto the street, we were greeted by a grand parade featuring Madrid’s police, army, navy, ambulance services, fire and rescue teams, and even a flyover by the air force. It was then that we realized the significance of the day: **Día de la Comunidad de Madrid** (Madrid Community Day), celebrated on May 2. The city was alive with festivities—parades, markets, and music festivals—and the energy was contagious.  

Mueso Del Prado

Fountain del Nacimiento Del Agua

For lunch, we enjoyed a delicious paella at **Plaza Mayor**, soaking in the lively atmosphere. Afterward, we made our way to the **Museo del Prado**, where Alison was eager to see Francisco Goya’s **Pinturas Negras** (Black Paintings). These haunting masterpieces are a must-see for anyone visiting Madrid. 

By the end of the day, we were exhausted but fulfilled. We picked up some bread rolls and tomatoes from a supermarket for a simple dinner and headed back to the hotel for a well-deserved rest. 

Madrid is a city that seamlessly blends history, art, and celebration, and we were lucky to experience it all in one unforgettable day. If you’re planning a trip here, be sure to wear comfortable shoes—you’ll need them!

Steps 21,176

Palacio Real de Madrid - View from Catedral