Favorite Corners - Madrid

For us, the rain in Spain did not stay mainly in the plain.  We had two sunny days (during which we crammed in as many parks and gardens as we could), but then it drizzled for the remainder our time in Madrid.  We managed to avoid the worst of the rain by dining during the downpours, taking a day trip to Toledo, and getting cultural in a few world class art museums.  

Standing in front of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree, a symbol from the Madrid coat of arms. 

Taking in a free concert beside the largest royal palace in Europe (3000 rooms!!).

The beautiful Temple of DeBod, gifted by Egypt to Madrid.  There are two levels inside to explore. 

Okay, one last park picture.  This is from the area surrounding the Temple of DeBod.

Catedral de Santa María La Real de La Almudena, began in 1883 and finally finished in 1993.

Inside the cathedral. 

Modern art at the Reina Sofia. 

The Mercado de San Miguel has plenty of tasty snacks. 

We took a day trip to Toledo.  Travel tip: some sites are free during certain times on Saturday.

The Tegu river (yep, it touches both Spain and Portgual). 

The oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world, frequented by a number of famous people including Hemingway (although Hemingway is said to have drunk his way through most of Madrid.).

Meet the mascot of Ale-Hop, our favorite store.