Madrid Matters June 2018

Madrid Matters

Madrid in your Pocket June 2018 www.MadridMatters.com

SPECIAL FEATURE THE A.E.C.C. Rock Against Cancer Sean Connery Raquel Welsh

Lifestyle For Fun Out & About Nightlife Events Fashion Travel Motors Sport Gizmos Mobiles What's On Metro Music Health Wellness Cinema & Then Some

June 2018 Welcome to the premier edition of Madrid Matters, our monthly lifestyle magazine all about Madrid and then some.

Cars, boats, property, money, women, nightclubs, films, TV, gizmos, gadgets, plus the best in getting the most of out living or visiting Madrid: this is just part of what you will find in our easy to carry monthly magazine, with much more information on our website for you to discover.

Our Ultimate Man's Man, this month is possibly the very best 007, Sean Connery, who will celebrate his 88th birthday on August 25th, 2018.

But least we forget the ladies, and our premier Real Woman is none other than Ms. Raquel Welsh.

Welcome to Madrid Matters...

Madrid Matters in both senses of the word: Things that are happening and going on: That what does go on in Madrid: matters

Madrid Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a cosmopolitan city that combines the most modern infrastructures and the status as an economic, financial, administrative and service centre, with a large cultural and artistic heritage, a legacy of centuries of exciting history.

Strategically located in the geographic centre of the Iberian Peninsula at an altitude of 646 m above sea level, Madrid has one of the most important historic centres of all the great European cities.

This heritage merges seamlessly with the city's modern and convenient infrastructures, a wideranging offer of accommodation and services, and all the latest state-ofthe-art technologies in audiovisual and communications media.

These conditions, together with all the

drive of a dynamic and open society –as well as highspirited and friendly– have made this metropolis one of the great capitals of the Western world.

Near the Plaza Mayor is the area known as the "aristocratic centre" where the jewel in the crown is the Royal Palace, an imposing building dating from the 17th century featuring a mixture of Baroque and classicist styles.

Beside it is the Plaza de Oriente square, the Teatro Real opera house, and the modern cathedral of La Almudena which was consecrated in 1993 by Pope John Paul II. The Puerta del Sol square is surrounded by a varied and select area of shops and businesses, and the "Paseo del Arte" art route –whose name derives from its worldclass museums, palaces and gardens are further elements in an array of monuments which includes particularly the Bank of Spain building, the Palace of Telecommunications, and the fountains of Cibeles and Neptune.

Art and culture play a key role in Madrid's cultural life.

The capital has over 60 museums which cover every field of human knowledge.

Highlights include the Prado Museum, one of the world's most important art galleries; the T h y s s e n Bornemisza Museum, with over 800 paintings ranging from primitive Flemish artists through to the avant-garde movements.

And the Reina Sofía National Art Centre, dedicated to contemporary Spanish art and containing works by Picasso, Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí and Juan Gris, among others.

Madrid's extensive and beautifully maintained parks and gardens –like the Retiro park, formerly the recreational estate to the Spanish monarchs, the Casa de Campo and the Juan Carlos I park, offer inhabitants and visitors the chance to enjoy the sunshine, stroll, row on its lakes or feed the squirrels, in one of the greenest capitals in Europe.

But if there's one thing that sets Madrid apart, it must be its deep and infectious passion for life that finds its outlet in the friendly and open character of its inhabitants.

Concerts, exhibitions, ballets, a select theatrical offering, the latest film releases, the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of the best Spanish and international gastronomy, to savour the charms of its bars and taverns... all these are just a few of the leisure options on offer in Madrid.

There is also a tempting array of shops & businesses featuring both t r a d i t i o n a l establishments and leading stores offering top brands and international labels.

Madrid's lively nightlife is another key attraction of Spain's capital, due to its variety and the exciting atmosphere to be found in its bars, pubs, clubs and flamenco halls.

Other daytime entertainment options include traditional outdoor dances, popular festivities and the San Isidro bullfighting festival, regarded as being the most important in the world.

The AECC exists to help patients, families, volunteers and professionals who work together to prevent, raise awareness, accompany people and support cancer research projects that will enable better diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Sometimes helping the person with cancer is not enough. The aecc translates the voice of society to public authorities, to develop appropriate prevention and cancer control policies.

Colon cancer The Spanish population has more risk of dying from colon cancer depending on where you live. AECC again urges the autonomous regions to accelerate the spread of colon cancer screening.

Cancer Prevention World No Smoking Day, May 31 The National Committee for Smoking Prevention (NPTC), the Spanish Society of Cardiology (SEC) / Heart Foundation and the AECC come together to point out aspects that still have to improve in our country to achieve a society free of smoking.

AECC highlighted in particular the situation of Spanish youth smoking and exposure of minors to smoke in homes as two of the challenges currently addressed.

Data provided at the press conference by the AECC:

More than 7 0 0 , 0 0 0 Spaniards under 14 are exposed to smoke in their homes (National Health Survey 2011-2012).

8.9% of young people between 14 and 18 years smoke daily and up to 19% of young people between 15 and 24 years (2014-2015).

The age of first use of smoking in Spain stands at 13.5 years. One of the lowest in Europe.

World Cancer Day . Prevent cancer, a possible reality .

AECC notes the poor implementation of health education in Spanish schools .

AECC appeals to the responsibility of all to ensure that Spain is a leading country in prevention .

Cancer Research AECC promotes an international movement for cancer research.

Palliative care AECC participated in the 15th World Congress of the European Association for Palliative Care (EAPC), Madrid, 18-20 May 2017 as part of the international panel of experts who discussed the value of volunteering in palliative care.

Everything you want to know about cancer, you can

find out something www.aecc.es

about

on

their

website:

Infocancer However, the information provided on this site is not a substitute for medical advice, but is intended to be a supplement or clarify doubts.

There are also pages that are aimed at anyone who is interested in having more information about cancer.

All this and a whole lot more is available at: www.aecc.es

OMOLOGATO WATCHES LAUNCH #TIFOSI Omologato Watches has unveiled #TIFOSI, a new timepiece designed to be affordable, durable and wearable at racetracks across the globe.

In a first for Omologato, #TIFOSI is to be offered in a variety of different designs all with a unique title paying homage to some of the most famous names in motoring and motorsport. They are, Stuttgart, Hethel, R, Weissach and Fiorano.

The five bespoke designs are incorporated within a robust 40mm stainless steel case and the seconds hand incorporates the Omologato Logo. #TIFOSI models come with a number of double-layered nylon NATO straps to choose from, each emulating racing liveries.

More straps will be added to the collection in the future.

The term Tifosi is world-

renowned, owed largely in part to the legions of dedicated Italian followers of the Ferrari F1 team. A sea of red within the grandstands of circuits over the world, provide one of the most spectacular images for Formula One and one with passion engrained.

Staunchly supporting the Ferrari team and drivers.

Prices for all #TIFOSI designed watches and NATO straps start at £149. For more information on #TIFOSI or to place an order, head over to the all-new Omologato website: www.omologatowatches.com.

Omologato founder Shami Kalra said: “We are delighted to launch the new #TIFOSI watch. It is a truly affordable and durable timepiece, which we designed in a number of different styles to accommodate all audiences. It is a watch bespoke to you.

“Deriving its name from the Prancing Horses’ legions of fans, the #TIFOSI was a truly apt title to give to the people who wear our watches and share their travels of motorsport events from race circuits and car meets around the world. We are all #TIFOSI.”

Autobello June 26, 2018 Autobello was born more than ten years ago, thanks to the initiative of a banker and gentleman driver, an enthusiastic journalist and CAR director, Emilio Olivares i Camps, as well as an important group of collectors and gentlemen, whose link was none other than their passion for "pedigree" cars and "one-off" watches.

In short, Autobello is a unique event that every year brings together the owners of the "Best Movements in the World": cars and watches. The highest award is to reach the Gold Cups in both categories.

www.autobello.es / infoautobello@gmail.comThe The first edition of AutoRacing will be held in June 2018 in the Madrid Arena space at the Casa de Campo fairgrounds in Madrid.

AutoRacing will be held from June 15 to 17 is open to the public on Friday and Saturday from 10.00am to 9.00pm.

On Sunday doors open at 10.00am and will close at 8.00pm. Ticket prices on Friday and Sunday are 10 euros per person / day. On Saturday, the ticket price is 12 euros per person / day.

Five Minute Fun

Five Minute Fun

Rock Against Cancer 2018 After their first fundraising campaign on behalf of the AECC in Torrevieja in 2015, Rock Against Cancer returned to the stage on Saturday, June 10, 2017, in Torrevieja.

The charity concert organized by Monroe's Music Pub attracted hundreds of people to the 2015 event with the 'Rock Against Cancer', charity concert raising 3,700 euros for the Spanish Association Against Cancer, the AECC, Last year's event surpassed that of 2015 as the event grows in popularity and support, helkped along by the efforts of Kjetil Hamre from Expo Torrevieja and The Local Touch Magazine. The total raised was an amazing 5.600€: 4,500€ during the event, plus another 1,100 € from "ARTISTS AGAINST CANCER" held at the Camping Florantilles Torrevieja.

The 2018 event will take place at Eras de la Sal, in Torrevieja and will be well worth a trip to the 'Playas de Madrid' for a weekend getaway and a little fun in the sun, and all for a great cause.

Options for men’s underwear have been extremely limited in the past. Designers didn’t seem to have an interest in creating fashionable lines that were also comfortable.

As a result men were limited to either sexy underwear or comfortable underwear and very little in between.

Hunk² wants to change all that with their stylish new collection of briefs, thongs, and jockstraps. Hunk² is a new brand of male fashion underwear that delivers high quality underwear in fashions all men can enjoy.

The underwear is designed in the United States and made out of delicate South American fabrics.

The result is sturdy, stylish and sexy underwear that looks and fits perfectly on a man’s body.

From design to fabric to branding Hunk² is revolutionary. It is a company that knows its audience and is marketing directly to men that are actually confident and decided to live a healthy life without going for the strict six-pack look.

“When you feel good and look great,” says Allen, “you’re more confident and that’s what Hunk squared is all about.”

For more information about Hunk², visit: https://hunk2.com/

MM - Man's Man

Sean Connery

Sean Connery is perhaps best known for portraying the character James Bond, starring in seven Bond films between 1962 and 1983.

In 1988, Connery won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in The Untouchables (1987).

His film career also includes such films as Marnie (1964), The Name of the Rose (1986), the League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003), Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade(1989), The Hunt for Red October (1990), Murder on the Orient Express (1974), DragonHeart (1996) and The Rock (1996).

Connery has been polled as "The Greatest Living Scot" and "Scotland's Greatest Living National Treasure".

In 1989, he was proclaimed "Sexiest Man Alive" by

People magazine, and in 1999, at age 69, he was voted "Sexiest Man of the Century".

Thomas Sean Connery was born on August 25, 1930 in Fountainbridge, Edinburgh, Scotland. He is of Irish and Scottish descent.

At the age of 23, he had a choice between becoming a professional footballer or an actor, and even though he showed much promise in the sport, he chose acting and said it was one of his more intelligent moves.

Connery's breakthrough came in the role of secret agent James Bond. He was reluctant to commit to a film series, but understood that if the films succeeded his career would greatly benefit. He played the character in the first five Bond films: Dr. No (1962), From Russia

with Love (1963), Goldfinger (1964), Thunderball (1965), and You Only Live Twice (1967) - then appeared again as Bond in Diamonds Are Forever (1971) and Never Say Never Again (1983).

All seven films were commercially successful. James Bond, as portrayed by Connery, was selected as the third-greatest hero in cinema history by the American Film Institute.

James Bond's creator, Ian F l e m i n g , originally d o u b t e d Connery's casting, saying, "He's not what I envisioned of James Bond looks", and "I'm looking for Commander Bond and not an overgrown stunt-man," adding that C o n n e r y

(muscular, 6' 2", and a Scot) was unrefined. Fleming's girlfriend told him that Connery had the requisite sexual charisma, and Fleming changed his mind after the successful Dr. No (1962) premiere.

Sean married actress Diane Cilento in 1962 and they had a son, Jason Connery, born on January 11, 1963.

The marriage ended in divorce in 1973. In 1975 he married Micheline Roquebrune and they have stayed married, they have no children together.

IMDb Mini Biography By: A.G. and Pedro Borges

Getting around Madrid Tourist Travel Pass Get around the city easily, quickly and economically with our tourist travel card which gives unlimited use of all public transport.

Airport Express Shuttle The airport express shuttle coach will get you from Barajas straight to the centre of Madrid in just 40 minutes.

Getting around Madrid by Metro With over 300 stations linked together by 15 lines, Madrid's underground will get you around the city quickly and hassle-free.

Getting around Madrid by Bus Madrid runs an efficient bus service that allows you to take in the city sights as you travel to your destination.

Getting around Madrid by Taxi If you're in a bit of a hurry or just feel it's too cold to walk, the city has thousands of taxis waiting to take you wherever you want to go.

Getting around Madrid by Train The Cercanías suburban train system connects Madrid with other towns and villages in the region, including El Escorial and Aranjuez.

Bike Rental in Madrid Explore the city in an ecofriendly way and stay fit at the same time. You don’t need to bring your own bike! car2go Make the most of this new electric car hire service that’s great for moving freely around the city.

Madrid's Metro Over 7,500 people work to make it possible for around 2 million people to make their daily journeys in the most comfortable, quickest and safest way possible using a network which currently covers 293 kilometres and has 300 stations.

Tourist Information ‘Metro Madrid’ communicates the heart of Spain's capital with every corner of the city and 12 districts of the Community of Madrid.

In just a few minutes, go from Adolfo Suarez MadridBarajas airport to central Puerta del Sol, where the kilometre zero can be found where many Spanish roads stem from.

Also, the Madrilenian underground links RENFE’s stations of Puerta de Atocha and Chamartín, with UNESCO-rated World Heritage Sites, like Alcalá de Henares, Toledo or Segovia in under an hour.

Getting around Madrid There are plenty of things to do in Madrid , all easily accessible thanks to Madrid’s underground network. Places like Habsburg Madrid, The Plaza Mayor, The Royal Palace, Plaza de España, the Puerta del Sol, Gran Vía, Puerta de Alcalá, monumental fountains like Cibeles or Neptuno, Las Ventas bullring or Parque de El Retiro park. All of these are only a few metres away from downtown stations of Madrid’s Metro.

From any of them, travel quickly and conveniently to and from places interesting for tourists and professionals alike, such as the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, The Vicente Calderón, the capital’s main business and corporate centres, trade show and exhibition venues like IFEMA.

Public Transport Card The Public Transport Card is a contactless technology support replacing magnetic tickets and used to charge tickets issued by the Madrid Regional Transport Consortium for the entire public transport system in the Community of Madrid.

This is a personal, nontransferable card that expires 7 years following its date of issue (4 years for cards charged with annual passes). The holder’s name and photograph are printed on the card, along with a card identification number.

Further information on use, charging, validity, consultation of balance, etc. at www.crtm.es.

Tourist Card The Tourist Card is the most practical and economical way of travelling in Madrid. It can be used on all public transport in the Community, without travel limits within the period of validity.

Purchase This ticket is available both as Public Transport Card and as a coupon. The Tourist title can be purchased at

all stations on the network of Metro and headquarters of the Regional Transport Consortium Madrid , Plaza de Discoverer Diego de Ordaz, 3.

Two types according to age: normal and children (under 11).

Official Metro de Madrid Applications (Apps) The Metro App sets out to improve the information on the service and the experience of users. It is available both for Android and for IOS and offers the information in several languages.

The state of the facilities Waiting times The services of a station The stations closest to your location Metro network map and tourist map Your favourite stations Your metro journey Current operating state of the train service Receive ‘push’ notifications Information on fares, season and ordinary tickets, service times, contact, and access with bikes and dogs On Android: Check the balance of your Public Transport Card and Multi Card via NFC Submit notices on station cleanliness News items More info: www.metromadrid.es.

PHotoEspaĂąa June 6 - August 27 Madrid.

2018 is the year in which PHoto EspaĂąa, a photography festival that has become an international reference event for the world of visual arts, turns twenty.

To celebrate, this edition presents a review of what these two decades have meant in the field of photography and the visual arts.

In addition, as every year, to the numerous exhibitions will be added other activities such as workshops, seminars, portfolio viewings, meetings, conferences and film cycles. www.phe.es/phe-2018

Sales Staff Wanted Madrid Matters is seeking self-employed, independent, Sales Staff for our fun, International English Language Magazine.

We are seeking a couple of professional and experienced representatives, who are skilled, honest, great communicators, have contacts within the local community and are looking to expand their entrepreneurial comfort zone by becoming part of our event management and media team.

Please send a basic CV to Keith with a few details about why you'd like to join our team to: Keith@MadridMatters.com, with Sales Matter in the subject Line, to arrange a zero obligation chat.

Full Time: Part Time: Work From Home: Internet: Social Networking: International: all welcome...

All applications are held in the strictest of confidence and confidentiality.

English Language Cinema Fancy a night with popcorn, ice cream and a large soda watching the latest movies/films. Fear not, that's easy to do in Madrid.

There are also movie houses and others with special classic screening. Check out www.MadridMatters.com for more details.

Check out a few of the following online for their listings.

Cines Renoir Princesa Calle Princesa 3, 28008 Madrid Cines Verdi Calle Bravo Murillo 28, 28015 Madrid Renoir Plaza Espana Calle Martin de Heros 10, 28008 Madrid Renoir Retiro Calle de Narvaez 42, 28009 Madrid Yelmo Cines Ideal Calle del Doctor Cortezo 6, 28012 Madrid Cine Estudio Circulo de Bellas Artes Alcala 42, 28014 Madrid Cines Golem Calle Martin de los Heros 14, 28008 Madrid

BeerMad

Once again, Madrid is playing host to Beermad, the great artisan beer market. Held at La Caja Mágica, just like last year, Beermad will offer more than 100 types of beer, as well as lots of news and surprises for beer lovers. There’ll be concerts, workshops and beer tastings as well.

The beers you can try at this twenty-first-century market include both lager and ale types, i.e. beers made using cool and warm fermentation, respectively: Pale Ale, Saison, Porter, Amber Ale… Those who want to know more about beer will be able to attend lectures, beer tasting and beer and food pairing sessions, and workshops in which master brewers will unveil their best-kept secrets.

In addition, there’ll be a non-alcohol drink counter for teetotallers, as well as street food stalls so as not to drink on an empty stomach. The programme also includes live music and performances, children’s workshops and other family activities.

MM's Real Woman

Raquel Welsh

A new reigning 1960s international sex symbol took to the cinematic throne as soon as Raquel Welch emerged from the sea in her purposely depleted, furry prehistoric bikini.

Tantalizingly wet with her garb clinging to all the right amazonian places, One Million Years B.C. (1966), if nothing else, captured the hearts and libidos of modern men (not to mention their teenage sons) while producing THE most definitive and best-selling pin-up poster of that time.

After a major dry spell following the death of Marilyn Monroe in 1962, the auburn-maned Ms. Welch effortlessly assumed Marilyn's place and forever wiped away the notion that enduring sex goddesses came only in one form -- bottled blonds.

She was born Jo Raquel Tejada on September 5, 1940 in Chicago, Illinois, the first of three children born to Bolivian Armando Carlos Tejada Urquizo, an aerospace engineer, and his Irish-American wife

Josephine Sarah Hall, who was the daughter of American architect Emery Stanford Hall (1869-1939) and his wife Clara Louise Adams.

The family moved to San Diego, California (her father was transferred) when Raquel was only two. Taking dance lessons as a youngster, she grew up to be quite a knockout and nailed a number of teen beauty titles ("Miss Photogenic," "Miss La Jolla," "Miss Contour," "Miss Fairest of the Fair" and "Miss San Diego").

With her sights set on theater arts, she studied at San Diego State College on a scholarship starting in 1958 and married her first husband, high school sweetheart James Welch, the following year. They had two children Damon Welch (born 1959) and Tahnee Welch (born 1961). Tahnee went on to take advantage of her own stunning looks as an actress, most notably a prime featured role in Cocoon (1985).

Off campus Raquel became a local TV weather girl

in San Diego and eventually quit college. Following the end of her marriage in 1961 (she and Welch didn't divorced until 1965), she packed up her two children and moved to Dallas, Texas, where she modeled for Neiman-Marcus and worked as a barmaid for a time. Regrouping, she returned to California, migrated to Los Angeles, and made the rounds of film/TV auditions.

Providing minor but sexy set decoration on the small screen (Bewitched (1964), McHale's Navy (1962) and The Virginian (1962)) as well as the large (Elvis Presley's Roustabout (1964) and Doris Day's Do Not Disturb (1965)). Caught in the midst of the "beach party" craze, it's not surprising to find out that her first prime film role was A Swingin' Summer (1965),

which concentrated more on musical guests The Righteous Brothers and Gary Lewis & The Playboys than on Raquel's outstanding contributions. But 20th Century Fox certainly took notice and signed her up.

With her very first film under contract (actually, she was on loan out to Britain's Hammer Studios at the time), she took on the remake of One Million B.C. (1940) in the Carole Landis role and the rest is history.

She won a Golden Globe for the swashbuckler The Three Musketeers (1973), and appeared to good advantage in the mystery thriller The Last of Sheila (1973). She planned on making a comeback in Cannery Row (1982), even agreeing to appear topless (which she had never done before), but was suddenly fired during production without notice. She sued MGM for breach of contract and ultimately won

a $15 million settlement, but it didn't help her film career and only helped to label her as trouble on a set.

She also found a lucrative avenue pitching beauty products in infomercials and developing exercise videos Ă la Jane Fonda.

Raquel took advantage of her modest singing and dancing abilities by performing in splashy Las Vegas showrooms and starring in such plausible stage vehicles as "Woman of the Year" and "Victor/ Victoria."

Raquel continues to show up here and there and still can turn heads.

She has even spoofed her own diva image on occasion, most memorably on "Seinfeld".

- IMDb Mini Biography By: Gary Brumburgh / gr-

Madrid Matters Exhibitions Auschwitz: First stop of this travelling exhibition about the notorious Nazi extermination camp in Poland, with over 600 original artefacts (Centro de Arte Canal. Till 17 Jun).

China, Japan and India and Contemporary Spanish Art: A portrayal of the influence of the East on 20th-century Spanish art (Juan March Foundation. 8 Mar-24 Jun).

Isadora Duncan. The liberation of movement: Dancer Isadora Duncan (1877-1927) was an advocate of free movement of the female body, with a vision of dance that clashed with social conventions (Espacio TelefĂłnica Foundation. 23 Mar-24 Jun).

Rubens. Painter of Sketches: 70 pieces by the most important artist for the creation of oil sketches within the history of European art. (Prado Museum.

10 Apr-5 Aug).

Duchamp, Magritte, DalĂ­: Revolutionary Artists from the 20th century: An exhibition dedicated to the artists who revolutionised twentieth-century art (Gaviria Palace. 10 Apr-15 July).

Marc Pataut: Photographic exhibition devoted to the social protest works by the French artist (Reina Sofia Museum. 25 Apr-27 Aug).

Magnum. PHotoEspaña 2018: More than 20 Magnum photographers from different generations are exhibiting their pictures focusing on play (Espacio Telefónica Foundation. 11 May-16 Sept).

Victor Vasarely. The Birth of Op Art: A monographic exhibition of one of the principal exponents of Op Art (Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. 7 Jun-9 Sept).

Monet/Boudin: First exhibition that addresses the relationship between the impressionist painter and his maestro (Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. 26 Jun-30 Sept).

Disney, The Art of Storytelling: A journey through the creative process of the Disney Studios (CaixaForum Madrid. 17 Jul-11 Nov).

Max Beckmann. Figures in Exile: Exhibition dedicated entirely to one of Germany’s leading twentieth-century artists (Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. 23 Oct-27 Jan 2019).

Tamara de Lempicka: A solo exhibition dedicated to the Polish painter, best-known for her polished Art Deco portraits (Gaviria Palace. Late 2018).

Madrid Matters Concerts Queen + Adam Lambert: The iconic band celebrates the 40th anniversary of their News of the World album with the great Adam Lambert behind the microphone (WiZink Center. 9 June).

Bruno Mars: Grab the chance to listen to one of today’s most powerful singers on the occasion of his new international concert tour, 24K Magic (Wanda Metropolitano Stadium. 22 June).

Demi Lovato: The American pop-star visits Madrid on her world tour Tell Me You Love Me Tour (Palacio Vistalegre Arena. 22 June).

Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band: The drummer of the Beatles presents his latest album, Give More Love(WiZink Center. 28 June).

Shakira: The prestigious Colombian artist returns to the stage with her world tour to present her eleventh album (WiZink Center. 3 July).

Lenny Kravitz: One of today’s greatest rock musicians is coming to Europe with a new album (WiZink Center. 4 July).

KISS: The legendary American rock band will review its mythical songs (WiZink Center. 8 July).

Iron Maiden: The legendary British band offers a powerful live performance as part of the Legacy of the Beast tour (Wanda Metropolitano Stadium. 14 July).

Carlos Vives: The acclaimed Latino pop artist presents his new work Vives (Complutense University Botanical Gardens. 24 July).

Jonas Kaufmann: The German tenor will perform as part of the Voces del Real series, conducted by Jochen Rieder (Teatro Real. 25 July).

Maluma: The king of reggaeton is coming back to Spain with a new album, F.A.M.E. (WiZink Center. 6 September).

U2: The Irish rock band are coming back to Madrid 13 years after performing in the Spanish capital (WiZink Center. 20-21 September).

Jason Derulo: The international pop star presents his latest album as part of his new tour (WiZink Center. 16 October).

Jethro Tull: The legendary British progressive rock band celebrates its 50th anniversary (Municipal Conference Centre. 3 November).

Madrid Matters Music Festivals Nights at the Botanical: Elvis Costello, Serrat, Norah Jones, Simple Minds ... a remarkable line-up for the third edition of this eclectic festival (Complutense University Botanical Garden. 21 Jun-29 Jul).

Download Festival: Guns N’ Roses, Ozzy Osbourne, Judas Priest and Marilyn Manson will be performing at the second edition of the famous English rock festival (Madrid Caja Mágica. 28-30 June).

Mad Cool Festival: Pearl Jam, Jack White, Arctic Monkeys, Depeche Mode, Queens of the Stone Age, Kasabian, Jack Johnson, Massive Attack, Nine Inch Nails, Richie Hawtin, Justice, Tame Impala and much more (Espacio Mad Cool. 12-14 July).

Universal Music Festival: In its 4th edition, the festival will feature Steven Tyler, Gregory Porter, Pablo López, Pablo Alborán, and many other top Spanish and international musicians (Teatro Real.

3-31 July).

DCODE Festival: Say farewell to the summer with 18 hours of music at this fun festival (Campus de la Universidad Complutense. September).

Madrid Matters Theatre and Dance Appearances: The flamenco dancer Eva Yerbabuena reflects on the essence and limits of flamenco (Teatro Español. 30 May-3 June).

Olga Pericet - The thorn who wanted to be a flower or the flower…: A flamenco show choreographed by the artist herself (Teatros del Canal. 3 June).

The Royal Ballet: England’s leading ballet company is to perform the classic Swan Lake(Teatro Real.

18-22 July).

Dirty Dancing: The dance and love classic story now on stage (Teatro de la Luz Philips. Tuesdays to Sundays. 26 Sept-4 Nov).

Thäis: The singer, Plácido Domingo, as baritone, and Ermonela Jaho, one of the best loved sopranos by the audience of the Teatro Real, close Madrid’s lyrical season with the performance of Thäis. It features Athanaël, a monk who departs for Alexandria after a series of visions in order to convert Thaïs, a courtier and priestess of Venus, to Christianity. (Teatro Real, 26 July, Plazade Isabel II, s/n28013 )

Madrid Matters Sports Horse Racing: 2018 Season: Horse racing is back on at the Hipódromo de La Zarzuela racecourse (Spring season: 4 March to 1 July) Corazón Classic Match 2018. Real Madrid and Arsenal Legends will face each other in this charity event (Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. 3 June).

Madrid Athletics Meeting: The competition is part of the IAAF World Challenge Meetings (Centro Deportivo Municipal Moratalaz. 23 June).

Final leg of the Vuelta a España 2018: The Spanish cycling tour will once again conclude with a circuit around the streets of Madrid (16 September).

Triathlon World Cup: The world’s best triathletes meet once more in Madrid (Start: Casa de Campo Lake. Finish: Royal Palace. 29 and 30 September).

Revolution On Ice Tour 2018: World-class figure skaters led by Javier Fernández, fuse ice-skating with live music (Palacio Vistalegre Arena. 29 December).

San Silvestre Vallecana (31 December): A sporting and fun event through the streets of Madrid on the last evening of the year. A Christmas classic.

Mardid City Bus

Madrid City Tour is one of the easiest and most comfortable ways of discovering the city. All you have to do is buy your one- or two-day ticket, hop on the bus, put on your earphones, listen to the recorded commentaries and enjoy the streets, monuments and places of interest you pass by.

You can hop off wherever you want, as many times as you like.

Say on the same day you want to visit the Santiago BernabĂŠu stadium, the Prado Museum and the Royal Palace. With Madrid City Tour, you can get to them all quickly and easily, without having to know the local bus routes or change lines on the underground. The buses are equipped with audio guides in 14 languages. www.madridcitytour.es

Madrid Matters Must See

This area, known in English as the Art Walk, boasts art and beauty as you’ll see nowhere else in the world.

Along a stretch of just over one kilometre, you’ll find the Prado Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and the Reina Sofía Museum, as well as a number of other institutions and buildings well worth visiting.

The Prado Museum is the crown jewel of one of the capital’s most visited tourist itineraries: the Paseo del Arte (Art Walk). Its walls are lined with masterpieces from the Spanish, Italian and Flemish schools, including Velázquez’ Las Meninas and Goya’s Third of May, 1808. Its collection comprises 8,600 paintings and over 700 sculptures, so we recommend you decide what you want to see before stepping into the museum.

Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum Located on the Art Walk, this museum’s collection traces the history of European painting from the Middle Ages through to the late 20th century.

Given the wealth and variety of its treasures, comprising more than a thousand works of art, you should start your visit in the section that most interests you.

Italian primitives, the German Renaissance, 19th century American art, Impressionism, German Expressionism and Russian Constructivism are the most widely represented schools and movements in the museum.

Reina Sofia Museum Located on the Art Walk, the Reina Sofía houses works by Dalí, Miró and Juan Gris as well as Picasso’s masterpiece: Guernica.

The Reina Sofía Museum is housed in the Old Madrid General Hospital, which was built by Francisco Sabatini. In the early 2000s French

architect Jean Nouvel led an expansion project which saw the erection of an auditorium, a library and new galleries inside a huge red building made from zinc and aluminium, which is adjacent to the old edifice.

The Reina SofĂ­a also has two other exhibition centres: the VelĂĄzquez and Glass palaces in El Retiro Park.

They play host to temporary exhibitions and artistic installations devised specifically for these spaces.

National Archaeological Museum The National Archaeological Museum (MAN), which houses one of the world's most important antique collections, has just reopened after a comprehensive remodelling process that lasted for six years.

Comprising implements and works of art from Mediterranean cultures, its exhibits span from prehistory to the 19th century.

Mapfre Foundation. Recoletos Exhibition Hall The building that holds the exhibition halls of Mapfre Foundation was constructed between 1881 and 1884 by the architect AgustĂ­n Ortiz de Villajos, for the duchess of Medina de las Torres.

The building originally consisted of a height of four floors and semi-basement, but in 1910 two towers were built in the corners. After a series of refurbishment and restructuring projects, the building now has an exhibition area with an approximate surface of 1,000 m2, divided into three halls.

This foundation organises painting, sculpture and drawing exhibitions with a focus on the period spanning from the last third of the 19th century to after World War II.

Casa de América Casa de América is one of the most active cultural institutions of our city. With a view to fostering contact between the Latin-American peoples and Spain, it organises all kinds of cultural activities (exhibitions, lectures, film and literary cycles, etc.).

Its premises, the Palacio de Linares in the Art Walk, are a real jewel which must be visited. The limestone building, with its clean lines, the work of Carlos Colubí, Adolf Ombrecht and Manuel Aníbal Álvarez, houses an interior rich in furniture, lamps and bronzes from Paris, crystal from Antwerp, carpets from the Royal Tapestry Factory and a choice collection of paintings by artists of the stature of Francisco Pradilla, Manuel Domínguez and Alejandro Ferrant.

National Museum of Decorative Arts Located between the Art Walk and Retiro, this museum – created in 1912 - was intended to be a place for the education of artisans, craftsmen, artists and connoisseurs of the industrial arts, following the inspiration of other museums of the same type, such as the South Kensington Museum (now the Victoria and Albert Museum) in London, and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris.

Today its work focuses on research and, although most of the exhibits are Spanish, there are also a considerable number of displays from other countries, reflecting the influence of artistic developments abroad and the amount of everyday and luxury objects imported over the centuries.

Centro Palacio de Cibeles Located in the Cibeles Palace, this cultural centre on the Art Walk is the main focus of its activities for the city of Madrid. Its programme revolves around three lines of action: reflection on urban culture, the supply of cultural information, interactive and accessible to citizens and tourists, and, finally, the meeting of cultures through the holding of exhibitions, workshops, conferences and concerts, among other offerings.

Next to its large main hall, where you will find interactive informational screens, a colourful lounge offers the visitor a resting place where to read the news, connect to the Internet using their Wi-Fi network or simply sit and watch the Cibeles square through the large windows. CentroCentro also has

two eateries, the Colecciรณn Cibeles cafeteriarestaurant and the Palacio de Cibeles restaurant,

located on the street and on the sixth floor of the building respectively, and both open from Monday to Sunday.

Naval Museum The origin of the Naval Museum goes back to September 28th 1792, thanks to an initiative of Antonio de Valdés y Fernández Bazán, Navy Secretary of King Carlos IV. After multiple vicissitudes, the current Museum reopened in October 1932 in the current location of the old Navy Ministry, currently the Spanish Army Headquarters, located in the Art Walk.

The mission of the Museum is to acquire, conserve, research, communicate and exhibit for the objectives of study, education and contemplation of pieces, sets and collections with historic, artistic, scientific and technical value related to navy activity, in order to diffuse the maritime history of Spain, contribute to the illustration and protection of traditions and promote the national maritime conscience.

The origin of the collections of the Museum is very diverse. The exhibition rooms of the Museum, in chronological order, contain collections of Historical objects of many different types, guarded by the Navy and that range from the 15th century to modern times.

Royal Botanic Gardens Declared an Artistic Garden in 1942, its collections include an outstanding herbarium with more than a million entries, the library and the archive - with

nearly 10,000 drawings - as well as the exhibition of 5,000 species of live plants.

Guided tours are offered in order to know the multitude of species that inhabit this green corner of

the city centre, from onions or roses to the most exotic plants. The route through the garden and its greenhouses combines general botanic content, curiosities, history, the singularity of its examples, uses of the plants and their importance in our lives.

The Botanical Garden’s current location is not coincidental. Rather, it is the result of the enlightened monarch Carlos III’s wish to create a complex dedicated to the natural sciences in Madrid.

That is why it is next to what is now the Prado Museum, which was built in the late 18th century to house the Museum of Natural History.

Its scientific spirit is still alive, as the garden is currently managed by the Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (Spain’s National Scientific Research Council), which organises all kinds of educational activities such as conferences and exhibitions.

CaixaForum Madrid CaixaForum Madrid is a 21st century sociocultural centre which opens its doors to ancient, modern and contemporary art, music and poetry festivals, multimedia art, debates on current affairs, social conferences and family and educational workshops.

Its spectacular premises, in Paseo del Prado, near the three major museums of the Art Walk, the Prado, the Thyssen and the Reina SofĂ­a, are one of the new icons of our city.

The renovation of the building that housed the old MediodĂ­a electric power station was carried out by the Herzog & De Meuron architectural studio and it has two characteristics that make it easily recognisable: its vertical garden and its apparent state of "levitation".

CaixaForum has an area of over 2,000 square metres, encompassing exhibition halls, an auditorium with seating for 322 people and various

multipurpose conference rooms.

A cafÊ, a shop/bookstore and a restaurant round out the centre’s amenities.

Royal Observatory of Madrid The Royal Observatory of Madrid was commissioned by Charles III at the suggestion of Jorge Juan.

The construction of the main building, designed by Juan de Villanueva, began in 1790 on a small hill situated beside the present day Retiro Park. At the same time the astronomer W. Herschel was commissioned to build a 60 cm diameter reflecting telescope.

Teatro Circo Price Madrid's permanent circus is accommodated in the former facilities of the Pacisa biscuit factory..

The ensemble is composed by polyhedral pieces that make up four spaces including: an exhibition venue, a main building with a circular circus hall, a back building connected to the loading bay, offices and administration building, a facilities basement and a workshop and trade street.

When this building was inaugurated in 2007, the City of Madrid gave the capital a unique venue, joining a long list of cities with resident circuses such as Paris with its Cirque d’Hiver; Brussels, Munich with its Circus Krone; Amsterdam, Lisbon with its Coliseu dos Recreios; Budapest, London, Vienna, Manchester and Copenhagen, among others.

La Casa Encendida La Casa Encendida, the social and cultural centre of the Fundaciรณn Obra Social y Monte de Piedad de Madrid, showcases the most avant-garde exhibitions along with all types of artistic expression, as well as classes and workshops on environmental and community issues. The cultural schedule includes scenic arts, movies, exhibitions, and other examples of contemporary work.

It is located in a Neo-Moorish style building of monumental proportions. Designed by the architect Fernando Arbรณs and opened in 1913, it offers more than 64,583 square feet of facilities, divided into four floors and a terrace roof, which in summer functions as an open-air movie theatre where drinks are served.

The Biblioteca Nacional (National Library) was founded by King Philip V at the end of 1711 (known at this time as the Real Biblioteca or Royal Library), and opened its doors for the first time in March of 1712. It houses a copy of every single book published in Spain, as well as a valuable collection of incunables, manuscripts, prints, drawings, photographs, maps, sound recordings, scores, etc. It also has additional premises in Alcalรก de Henares.

Tourist Information Centres

Do you need a map of Madrid and someone to recommend must-visit sights in the city? Do you want to know what exhibitions and shows are on during your stay? Are you planning a tour for your friends who will be in town this weekend? All you have to do is drop by, phone, fax or e-mail one of the city's Tourist Assistance Services and Information Centres to get all the help you need.

Plaza Mayor Tourist Information Centre Plaza Mayor, 27 (Casa de la PanaderĂ­a) Tourist Information Point Paseo del Prado Plaza de Neptuno Atocha Tourist Information Point

Ronda de Atocha, s/n (junto al Museo Reina Sofía), Plaza de Callao Tourist Information Point Plaza de Callao, s/n Tourist Information Point Recoletos-Colón Paseo Recoletos, 23 (en el Bulevar) Santiago Bernabéu Stadium Tourist Information Point Paseo de la Castellana, 138 - Junto al Santiago Bernabéu Tourist Information Point CentroCentro Plaza de Cibeles, 1 (Palacio de Cibeles), Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport Tourist Information Point (Terminal 2, lounges 5 and 6) Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport Tourist Information Point (T4, lounges 10 and 11) Foreign Tourist Assistance Service (SATE) Calle Leganitos, 19 (Comisaría),

Practical Madrid Shops in Madrid open at 9 or 10am and close between 8 and 10pm, and most of them don’t close over lunch. Some – especially those far from the city centre – close from 2 to 4 or 5pm.

In Madrid, shops don’t have restricted opening hours, as local regulations governing shopping days and times grant retailers freedom to close or remain open. The shops and businesses in the districts on the tourist map, mostly Puerta del Sol and Gran Vía, will be open even on Sunday and bank holidays.

To have lunch at a restaurant table, it’s advisable to arrive before 3.30pm, or before 11pm for dinner.

However, you can still find kitchens open later than this. And if you don’t, you can always go tapas, as tapas bars and restaurants have more flexible hours.

Mobile phone coverage: Spain uses the GSM international coverage standard. American frequency ranges (850 and 1900MHz) are different from those in Europe (900 and 1800MHz), but the widespread use of 3G and 4G devices provides support for the entire range of bands in both continents.

Electricity supply in Spain is 220V. Plugs have two round pins and an additional ground pin. A standard travel adaptor plug will enable you to use appliances from abroad. Most hotels will supply you with one.

Water: In Madrid you’ll find one of the safest tap waters in Spain. The capital’s excellent drinking water comes directly from Sierra Norte to the points of consumption.

Out for Tapas in Madrid

In Madrid and other Spanish regions, tapas are bitesized snacks served for free with a drink.

This culinary tradition began in the thirteenth century, when King Alfonso X of Castile issued an order for taverns and inns to serve alcohol with a small helping of food, in an effort to reduce the number of drunkards on the streets. According to other sources, a slice of bread was used to prevent dust or flies from landing inside wine pitchers, and this was the origin of the noun ‘tapa’ in its culinary sense (for ‘tapa’ means lid in Spanish).

Most bars offer a saucer with olives, chips, nuts or a slice of bread with a cold cut on top. In others, however, tapas have grown in size and become more sophisticated, transformed into a unique culinary experience in their own right.

In addition to the tapas that come with your drink, you can order a ración or a media ración to share (at a charge, this time). Madrid classics include patatas bravas (deep-fried potato cubes in a spicy sauce), Spanish omelette, croquettes, aged cheese or Ibérico sausage.

What about drinks? When you go out for tapas in Madrid, these are the most popular choices: Caña: Beer in a tall, thin glass about 20 cl in volume.

Madrid’s baristas are well-trained in the art of ‘tirar la caña’ – that is, serving draft beer.

Chato: Wine in a small glass. Madrid offers a wide range of local wines, as well as world-class labels from all over the country.

Vermú: Spanish vermouth is herb-marinated wine (Mediterranean herbs, especially wormwood). In traditional bars, it’s poured from the tap.

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