5 secrets of Madrid that you probably didn't know!
Beyond the places that everyone knows, Madrid's many secrets make the capital a truly unique destination. Stay with us to discover some of the most interesting ones!
The Berlin Wall is in Madrid!
Did you know that the Spanish capital preserves three blocks of the Berlin Wall? They were sent to our country in 1990 and you can find them in the fountain that adorns Berlin Park: an urban garden that was inaugurated in 1967. As a curiosity, these vestiges of contemporary European history still conserve the original graffiti.
The ghost station of Chamberí
With more than 100 years of existence behind it, the Madrid metro has many curiosities and legends. One of the most striking is that of its ghost station. It is located in Chamberí and ceased operating in 1966. The fact that it is intact offers us an amazing journey back in time where we can see everything from the advertisements to the ticket offices of the time, and it even has its own museum!
The Letter Box
The Instituto Cervantes houses a vault that protects the so-called Caja de las Letras. It consists of 1,767 closed chests containing the legacy of some of Spain's leading artists (writers, musicians, actors, film directors...).
The Statue of Philip III: One of Madrid's greatest secrets
A fact that almost nobody knows is that the equestrian statue of Felipe III located in the centre of the Plaza Mayor was a veritable bird cemetery. This unusual fact was discovered during the Second Republic, when a citizen placed an explosive in the monument.
Apparently, the sparrows used to enter the monarch's horse's mouth and descend into its stomach with no possibility of return. In order to prevent these deaths, the equine's muzzle was sealed.
The crocodile of San Ginés
Undoubtedly, one of Madrid's greatest secrets is that the altar of the church of San Ginés contains a stuffed crocodile. Apparently, the reptile chased the Catholic Monarchs while they were visiting America and the monarchs were saved from its attack thanks to the Virgin. In gratitude, they decided to make this curious offering.
Which is the best hotel for travelling to Madrid?
Strategically located in the Barrio de las Letras, the Gran Hotel Inglés is a hotel in Madrid capable of making a difference. Not in vain, it is the oldest accommodation in the capital.
Exquisitely decorated rooms in the purest Art Deco style, 500-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets, private jacuzzi... Certainly, when we claim to be the best hotel to travel to Madrid, we are not just saying it.
When it comes to discovering Madrid's fascinating secrets, our prestigious 5-star hotel is second to none. Stay in one of our 48 rooms and get ready to experience the seductive charm of the 1920s.
