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Madrid
Madrid Art & History Tour: Thyssen Museum & City Views
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Overview
Tour in Madrid Landscape of Light Art Science and Museum Thyssen is a walking tour that shows off Madrid's art and history. This tour is great for people who love art, history, and seeing amazing city views.
Visitors will walk along the Paseo del Prado, a special street that UNESCO says is a World Heritage Site. Along the way, they'll see important buildings like the Hotel Ritz Madrid and the Madrid Stock Exchange, and cool fountains like the Fountain of Neptune and Cibeles Fountain. The tour also stops at places like the Monument to the Heroes of May Second, the Ministry of the Navy, the Bank of Spain, Círculo de Bellas Artes, Cibeles Palace (Former Post Office Headquarters), and Puerta de Alcalá. The main stop is the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, where people can see famous paintings by artists like Van Eyck and Monet. The tour ends with a drink on top of the Cibeles Palace, where visitors can see all of Madrid.
This tour includes a guide who speaks English and Spanish, tickets to the Thyssen Museum, and a visit to the Cibeles Palace rooftop. It does not include tips. It is a unique way to see Madrid's art and history all in one tour. 
Highlights
Explore the Paseo del Prado: Walk along a UNESCO World Heritage Site and see Madrid's famous landmarks.
Visit the Thyssen Museum: See masterpieces by Van Eyck, Dürer, Monet, and other famous artists.
Enjoy Panoramic Views: Have a drink on the Cibeles Palace rooftop and see Madrid from above.
Expert Guides: Learn about Madrid's history and art from knowledgeable English and Spanish-speaking guides.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally love the tour, praising the knowledgeable guides, the amazing art, and the beautiful rooftop views, although some wish it was longer and less crowded.
Visitors enjoyed the tour guide's knowledge and enthusiasm.
Guests loved the views from the rooftop bar.
Customers were impressed by the art collection at the Thyssen Museum.
Many found the historical walk very interesting.
Some visitors felt the tour was too short.
A few mentioned that the rooftop bar was crowded.
The Journey
Hotel Ritz Madrid
Experience the epitome of luxury at the Hotel Ritz Madrid, a landmark hotel built on the former sites of the Tivoli Theatre and Hippodrome Circus. Designed by French architect Mewes in a French neo-Baroque style reminiscent of its Parisian and London namesakes, the hotel boasts meticulously designed facades and a harmonious compositional balance. Admire the elevation overlooking the Plaza de Cánovas del Castillo, adorned with well-proportioned gardens and symmetrical, dome-topped curved towers. A symbol of elegance and sophistication, the Hotel Ritz offers a glimpse into Madrid's golden age of hospitality.
Fountain of Neptune
Marvel at the Fountain of Neptune, a majestic sculpture depicting the Roman god of the sea riding his shell-shaped chariot, pulled by hippocampi and guided by dolphins. Carved from white marble from Montesclaros, Toledo, the fountain symbolizes Spanish maritime power and economic prowess during the 18th century. Neptune's presence is a potent reminder of Spain's historical dominance and its vast overseas possessions, a crucial element of Madrid’s identity.
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
Immerse yourself in centuries of Western art at the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, housed in the historic Palacio de Villahermosa. Originally acquired by the Duke of Villahermosa in 1771, the palace underwent significant renovations, including a transformation by Rafael Moneo to house the museum's extraordinary collection. Encounter masterpieces by Van Eyck, Dürer, Titian, Caravaggio, Rubens, Rembrandt, and a pantheon of modern masters like Monet, Van Gogh, Picasso, and Pollock, making this museum a must-see for art enthusiasts.
Monument to the Heroes of May Second
Reflect on Madrid's heroic past at the monument dedicated to the Heroes of May Second 1808. Erected on the very ground where patriots were executed for rebelling against the French invasion, this architectural and sculptural landmark stands as a testament to the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for Spain's independence. It's a poignant reminder of the city's resilience and its citizens' unwavering spirit.
Madrid Stock Exchange
Admire the architectural ingenuity of the Madrid Stock Exchange, a unique building occupying the site of the former El Dorado theater. Designed by Repullés after winning a national competition in 1884, the building adapts to the plot's irregular shape with its curvilinear facade facing Loyalty Square. This historical building showcases the city's economic importance and architectural adaptability.
Ministry of the Navy
Explore the ornately decorated Ministry of the Navy building, designed by Espelius and completed by De Luque. This architectural gem blends Elizabethan Gothic elements with classical influences, paying homage to the Spanish Navy's historical significance during the reign of the Catholic Monarchs. The building reflects the early 20th-century search for a distinct national architectural identity, making it a fascinating example of eclectic design.
Bank of Spain
Discover the architectural evolution of the Bank of Spain, a grand structure that has undergone multiple expansions and renovations since its initial construction in 1884 by Eduardo de Adaro and Severiano Sainz de la Lastra. Admire the Italian mannerism-inspired facades and the stunning stained-glass windows crafted by Mayer and Maumejean. Later expansions by José Yarnoz Larrosa and Rafael Moneo add layers to this iconic building, showcasing the city's architectural heritage.
Círculo de Bellas Artes
Experience the vibrant cultural hub of the Círculo de Bellas Artes, opened in 1926 by King Alfonso XIII and designed by Antonio Palacios. This multidisciplinary center hosts a wide range of artistic, scientific, and philosophical activities. Marvel at the sculptures by Capuz and Adsuara adorning the facades, topped by Juan Luis Vassallo's Minerva. Ascend to the rooftop for unparalleled panoramic views of Madrid, making this a memorable cultural destination.
Fountain of Cibeles
Behold the majestic Fountain of Cibeles, designed in 1777 by Ventura Rodríguez Tizon. This iconic fountain depicts the goddess Cybele, symbol of earth and fertility, riding a chariot drawn by lions. Sculpted from blue marble from Montesclaros and stone from Redueña, it represents King Charles III's efforts to modernize Madrid and elevate it to the level of other European capitals like Paris and Saint Petersburg. A central point in Madrid, it stands as a symbol of the city itself.
Cafeteria Stop
Enjoy a brief respite with an appetizer at a charming local cafeteria. Experience authentic Madrid by savoring local delicacies and soaking in the bustling atmosphere. A quick pause to refresh and rejuvenate before continuing your exploration.
Cibeles Palace (Former Post Office Headquarters)
Explore the grandeur of the Cibeles Palace, originally built as the headquarters for mail and telecommunications in 1903. Designed by Palacios and Otamendi, this architectural masterpiece features a cruciform lobby, a grandiose triple-height staircase, and iron and glass walkways. The building's rationality, functionality, and innovative facilities are complemented by its current role as a respectful addition to the Madrid City Council, showcasing a harmonious blend of old and new.
Puerta de Alcalá
Witness the splendor of the Puerta de Alcalá, a grand triumphal arch built during the reign of Charles III as part of his beautification reforms. Replacing an older gate, this masterpiece designed by Ventura Rodríguez and Sabatini features five arches, with the central arch crowned by a triangular pediment. Constructed with Segovia granite and Colmenar stone, adorned with sculptures by Roberto Michel and Francisco Gutiérrez, the Puerta de Alcalá stands as a symbol of Madrid's regal past.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes guided visits in English and Spanish, entrance to the Thyssen Museum, and access to the Cibeles Palace rooftop. Tips are not included. The tour starts at a central meeting point, so make sure to arrive on time to begin the adventure. Please note that pickup and drop-off services are not provided.
Hot Tip
Some visitors suggested arriving at the Thyssen Museum early to avoid crowds. Others recommended bringing a camera to capture the stunning views from the Cibeles Palace rooftop. Also, wear comfortable shoes, as this tour involves a lot of walking!
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