Mysterious Madrid: A city of timeless charm

By Hermoine Macura-Noble
Special to The Times Kuwait 

The capital of Spain, Madrid seamlessly blends its rich history with vibrant modernity. Known for its grand boulevards, world-class museums, and buzzing nightlife, this Spanish gem offers an intoxicating mix of culture, art, and passion. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, foodie, or night owl, Madrid has something for everyone. With a Mediterranean climate, Madrid experiences hot summers and mild winters, making it a great year-round destination.

Walking through Madrid is like stepping into a living history book. The city’s heart, Plaza Mayor, with its stunning architecture and bustling cafes, has been the backdrop for centuries of history. Nearby, Puerta del Sol serves as the symbolic center of Spain, marked by the famous Kilometer Zero, from where all the country’s roads are measured.

A visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid is where you’ll get to experience a true immersion into Spain’s royal heritage. Though no longer the home of the Spanish monarchy, its opulent interiors and vast art collection provide a glimpse into the nation’s regal past. The palace’s manicured gardens, including Sabatini Gardens, are perfect for a peaceful stroll after the grandeur indoors.

Madrid is also home to one of the greatest collections of art in Europe, if not the world. The golden triangle of art, which includes the Prado Museum, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, is a must-visit for any art enthusiast who loves Spanish masters like Velázquez and Goya. The Prado Museum, for instance, houses an extensive collection of European art, while the Reina Sofía is known for its modern and contemporary art, including Picasso’s famous ‘Guernica.‘

When it comes to food, Madrid is a gastronomic paradise. From humble tapas to gourmet dining, the city is brimming with flavors. Mercado de San Miguel, a historic food market near Plaza Mayor, is the perfect place to sample local delights like jamón ibérico, patatas bravas, and croquetas. For a traditional sit-down meal, head to Sobrino de Botín, the world’s oldest restaurant according to the Guinness World Records, where their famous cochinillo asado is a must-try.

No visit to Madrid is complete without indulging in churros con chocolate. A local favorite is Chocolatería San Ginés, which has served this sweet treat since 1894. Another ‘must’ in Madrid is to watch a Flamenco Show. You can experience authentic Spanish culture by watching a performance at popular venues such as Corral de la Morería and Cardamomo.

When it comes to accommodation, Madrid offers a wide range of options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays, each with its own unique charm. For those looking for luxury, the Madrid Edition is the perfect choice—combining the signature style of Ian Schrager’s Edition Hotels with the rich culture of Spain’s capital: this hotel offers an exceptional blend of modern luxury, timeless elegance, and an unbeatable location.

Located in the city’s heart, The Madrid Edition is a landmark in itself. Opened in 2022, the hotel is an architectural marvel, combining modern design with classical Spanish elements to reflect the city’s history and contemporary vibrance.

Upon entering, guests are greeted by a sophisticated lobby featuring polished limestone and soft wood accents, large-scale modern art pieces, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light. The mix of contemporary furniture and rich textures adds to the refined ambiance. This chic yet welcoming environment is a hallmark of the Edition brand, emphasizing luxury without pretension.

The Madrid Edition offers 200 impeccably designed rooms and suites, each thoughtfully curated to provide the ultimate comfort and style. The rooms feature a neutral palette, with soft tones of beige, cream, and white complemented by natural materials such as oak, linen, and marble, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable stay.

Each room has luxurious amenities, from custom-designed beds and plush linens to modern tech conveniences like large flat-screen TVs and automated lighting. The marble bathrooms, with rainfall showers, add an extra layer of indulgence. Many suites offer private terraces with breathtaking views of Madrid’s skyline, making them perfect for guests seeking a private, exclusive experience.

Market at the Edition offers local produce-driven cuisine, focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced directly from local markets. Each dish on the menu is inspired by Spanish culinary traditions and presented in a relaxed yet innovative style, offering an authentic and memorable culinary experience to guests and locals alike. With its own entrance through a beautifully adorned baroque portal crafted by Madrilenian architect Pedro de Rivera, Market is a vibrant, multi-layered space for breakfast or dinner. Top picks on the menu include the 1kg grilled, dry-aged Galician Chuletón for meat lovers and red prawns from Palamos or the fish of the day for those craving seafood.

Other great places to stay include the Ritz-Carlton near the Prado Museum. Originally opened in 1910 as the “Hotel Ritz” by King Alfonso XIII, it has long been a symbol of opulence, hosting royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries over the years. The hotel underwent a meticulous renovation, reopening in 2021 as the Mandarin Oriental Ritz. With a state-of-the-art spa, impeccable service, and a prime location, the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Madrid remains one of the city’s most iconic and desirable accommodations. Part of the Rosewood Hotel Group – Villa Magna is another great choice for Gulf travellers, offering understated luxury in the exclusive Salamanca district. The hotel features spacious rooms with elegant decor, a high-end spa, and multiple dining options, including traditional Spanish cuisine.

Madrid is not just a destination; it’s an experience. Whether you’re savoring churros in a historic café, watching the sunset over the rooftops, or dancing until dawn, Madrid will captivate your heart with its endless vitality and warmth. So pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to fall in love with Madrid’s timeless charm.

By Hermoine Macura-Noble
The first Australian English speaking News Anchor in the Middle East. She is also the Author of Faces of the Middle East and Founder of US-based 501c3 charity – The House of Rest which helps to ease the suffering of victims of war. For more from our Contributing Editor, you can follow her on Instagram, here.