Madrid

Madrid is the capital and most populous city of Spain. The population of Madrid in 2019 was estimated at 6,542,000 people making it one of the largest cities in Europe. Situated on the Manzanares River and located partially on a plateau surrounded by mountains (the Sierra de Guadarrama), Madrid has an elevation of 610 metres above sea level; being almost twice as high as London or Amsterdam. This gives its climate a continental-Mediterranean character with hot summers and cool winters where temperatures can drop to 0°C during winter nights.

The history of Madrid dates back to medieval times when it served as an Arab fortress town before passing into Castilian hands after 12th century Reconquista conquests made by Alfonso VI against Muslim forces from Toledo and Córdoba who had taken control over much of Iberia for 500 years prior . During this period the city grew rapidly becoming Spain’s main political centre under Charles V whose reign saw major urban expansion projects including construction work done around his palace which now stands as part Plaza Mayor –a symbol widely associated with today’s Madrid–and nearby streets such as Calle Mayor, Preciados y Carrera de San Jerónimo all featuring baroque architecture that would become characteristic in many other parts throughout central madrid later on..
In more modern times since democracy came around following Franco’s death , Madrilean society has been characterized by strong cultural values towards internationalism , tolerance , liberalism & progressivism -all combined together have made greater madrid establish itself not only economically but also culturally within globalized societies worldwide ; having attracted hundreds artists & thinkers alike who have come here looking out for new opportunities success while sharing their rich cultural heritage brought along from diverse origins with locals everywhere they go !

Today, Madrid is known internationally for its influence in culture through film industry thanks largely due Spanish directors Pedro Almodovar & Alejandro Amenabár both awarded several Academy Awards between them ; world class art galleries like Prado Museum containing works Picasso Goya well renowned universities such Comillas Pontifical University providing students quality education programs covering wide range topics ranging social sciences business administration law medicine engineering among others .. As result these institutions provide steady influx professionals across fields ensure continuous growth development area creating attractive environment entrepreneurs investors seeking engage entrepreneurial initiatives create innovative products services respond current needs markets globally!