Madrid, Spain — History and Culture
Madrid first became significant in Roman times, although the foundations of the modern city were really laid in the 9th century, when an Arab palace was built on the site of the present day Palacio Real. In the 11th century, the Christians took the city from the Moors, finally expelling them in the 15th century. Charles I of Spain moved the court to Madrid from Barcelona in 1561, and the city became the Spanish capital and seat of power. In the 16th and 17th centuries, Madrid was a wealthy, aristocratic city, without much industry of its own but controlling Spanish interests nationwide and globally. The late 19th century saw revolution and the formation of the First Spanish Republic. The monarchy returned briefly, but were again overthrown by the Second Spanish Republic. These revolts were precursors for the Spanish Civil War, form 1936-1939. Madrid was heavily affected by the Civil War, with damaging battles in some neighborhoods. Under the regime of Franco, the city expanded and experienced rapid development in the 1960s, with impressive migration and a growing middle class. After Franco's death, the governing parties accepted the rule of King Juan Carlos I, and Madrid once again became the seat of a constitutional monarchy. Prosperity continued through the late 20th century, making modern Madrid a strong economic, cultural and industrial hub.
