The apartment was charming; small but very cleverly appointed, with perfectly sized appliances and gadgets to fit into each cozy nook. It served as an ideal resting place for two weary travelers, an oasis from the hustle and bustle of Madrid during Holy Week.
We visited the Palacio Real (Royal Palace) first, standing in an incredibly long line (again, I suspect due to Holy Week?) to tour the palace, armory, and apothecary. I enjoyed visiting the palace, and picturing the day-to-day lives of the royal family for whom this spectacular building served as home.
One of my goals for the year is to learn a lot more about Spanish history. Hopefully then I will have something more insightful to say about the palace.
I also enjoyed strolling in the Plaza de Oriente, and the Sabatini Gardens. Although it rained a bit during our stay, we had several clear afternoons to bask in the sunshine.
We also happened to join the crowds on Good Friday to see some of the religious processions in the Plaza Mayor. We waited amongst the people, not sure what was happening or what we would end up seeing. The crowd seemed relaxed and casual, rather than gripped by religious fervor.
One final "favorite place" in Madrid: the Parque del Buen Retiro (Park of the Pleasant Retreat) which certainly lived up to its name. A lovely place to stroll with friends or family, take in some fresh air, watch lively street magicians and puppeteers, or even paddle on the pond if you're feeling adventurous.
I loved Madrid, and look forward to returning to spend more time in the lovely parks and museums. Oh! I forgot to mention the Prado, where I saw my new favorite painting, the Garden of Earthly Delights by Hieronymus Bosch: so weird and fascinating! I could gaze at that painting for hours, I think, although the crowds at the Prado prevented me from staying in front of it for more than a few minutes.
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