Madrid: The History

by Jules Stewart

At the heart of the Castilian plateau, far from the seething coastal resorts of Spain, sits the great city of Madrid. Perched some 2,200 feet above the distant sea, it is at once the loftiest and also the most enigmatic of Europe’s difficult to understand for the Spanish and foreigners alike. Its intense character and the abrupt manner and hectic lifestyle of the madrileños can make even other Spaniards feel exhausted. Yet Madrid has a rich historical and cultural life which attracts almost eight million visitors per year, drawn to its beautiful palaces and churches, the magnificent collections of the Prado, and the pervasive echoes of a faded empire. Despite its ancient origins, Madrid feels like a modern, youthful city. But the legacy of Madrid’s *golden age*—the Spanish colonies from the Andes to the Philippines from which the city derived its wealth—remains evident in the extravagant Baroque façades of the old city. Jules Stewart here provides an insider’s account of Madrid and unveils the history and culture of one of Europe’s most fascinating, but least understood cities.

Genres: Spain, History, Cities, Nonfiction

304 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2012

Reviews

[Labijose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why hasn’t this magnificent book been translated to Spanish? A jewel like this should have been made available to Spanish readers!

A fascinating travel throughout the history of Madrid and, consequently, of Spain. Not only of the facts and the buildings, but also of the people (the “madrileños”), with all their glory and miseries.

I’ve had a great time reading it, and would recommend this book to anyone. Not a single dull moment. Mr Stewart has done a great job of weaving the most prominent moments of our interesting (and very often, sad and disgraceful) history. To my knowledge, he hasn’t missed any event of great significance, (I just missed a mention of Monseñor Tarancón, nowhere to be found). Specially touching is the chapter of the civil war. To the less adept about history, with this fascinating account you’ll jump from one century to the next without loosing track!

The final chapter is a two day visit guide to Madrid’s best highlights.

I take my virtual hat off to the author! Great job!

[Jay · Rating 3 out of 5]

A traditional, political history of Madrid. The city is still waiting for its Robert Hughes, or for a talented social historian who can get at Madrid's underbelly.

[Stephen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mediocre in all respects, but not outright terrible

[Des · Rating 4 out of 5]

A magnificent retelling of the colourful and chaotic history of my favourite city.

[redbaton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read part of this book before traveling to Madrid for the first time and finished it after already having returned. Don't make the same mistake. Mr. Stewart does a great job condensing his 20 years of insider experience of Madrid into a very readable history that also serves as a tremendously valuable guide for visitors. Unlike most other Western European countries, Spain has a history all its own, particularly considering the Reconquista and Spain's peculiar position before, during and after WW2. Those interested in Madrid or Spain should read Madrid: The History immediately, as Mr. Stewart does a brilliant job of weaving this unique history into a culture study that never fails to entertain.

[K's Bognoter · Rating 4 out of 5]

En velskrevet, sober, interessant formidling af Madrids historie – som dog lider lidt under at være meget kompakt. Anmeldelse på K's bognoter: https://bognoter.dk/2019/03/01/jules-...

[Tom Wise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aimed to read before a trip to Spain's capital, finished just afterwards. A really informative account of Madrid's history from the moors to the present day. Covered Spain's monarchy, the impact of Napoleon, and the Spanish Civil War. Really helped to understand the walking tour better.

[Ruthie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely fascinating! A well written and well researched history of the city that never sleeps. Really enjoyed it and learned a lot.