Madrid’s Golden Age: 500 Years of History along the Manzanares River

Parque Madrid Río (meaning Madrid River Park) follows the gentle flow of the Manzanares River through the southern part of the city, like a green ribbon. It’s one of the city’s newest public spaces, yet it’s packed with some of the city’s most important historical places. On this walking tour, I’ll tell you how the Manzanares River’s development is linked directly to Spain’s fortunes, and the evolution of its modern capital city. Starting next to Segovia Bridge, you’ll walk along the river’s edge to Puente del Rey (King’s Bridge) and take a trip through time, hearing about the Spanish Golden Age of the 1500s, the Civil War of the 1930s, and, eventually, the present day. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of secret tunnels, popular festivals and royal feats of engineering, including Gate and Bridge of the King. By the end of this tour through Madrid Rio Park, you’ll have a sense of how the area was a hive of activity for 500 years, where everyone from washerwomen to kings used the river to work, relax and even escape from trouble. You’ll also be able to: • Discover why the Segovia Bridge, Madrid’s ‘oldest’, might not actually be that old • Find out about the Chapel of the Virgin of the Harbour and, inside, its replica of a replica of the statue of the Portuguese Virgin of the Harbour • Walk through Lisbon Gardens, an orchard that visually recreates King Felipe II’s forgotten plan to link up Madrid with Portugal • Enjoy spectacular views of the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral towering above the river valley, and take your photo with the Madrid Rio Sign • Learn about Casa de Campo, a historical royal hunting ground • See the private Mansion of the Vargas, the palace where Napoleon’s brother hid to avoid the angry Spanish mob • Hear how the Madrid Rio’s banks have turned from an unloved, barren barrier into a lively green space full of wildlife This hour-long walk will introduce you to the river’s fascinating links with the last 500 years of Spanish history, while you enjoy local wildlife and nature along the way. It’s a side of the city that’s popular with locals, but which few visitors ever get to see. So, if you’d like to take a break from Madrid’s bustling city centre, this tour is perfect for you!

Price: £5.99 from VoiceMap