Capital of Spain: Learn Spanish in Madrid

Photo by Jeff Rosen
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Madrid is the "Center of Spain", literally in terms of its geographic location but also being the heart of the country. It is one of the most amazing cities in which to learn Spanish as it not only located near the region where the language of "Castellano" was born and developed, but also is home to some of Spain's richest cultural heritage. You can spend hours walking the streets of Madrid and be in awe of the spectacular architecture and landscapes of the city, or perusing the cities major sites of interest. Madrid also boasts the best nightlife in the country. The city is known for late dinners at amazing restaurants and visiting clubs that may not open till one in the morning and keep the party going till after sun up.

Unlike Barcelona where Catalan is the local language or other regions that speak Basque and Gallego, Castellano or Spanish as we know it, is the native language of Madrid and the surrounding regions. Madrid adds the formal aspect of knowing that you are learning the language in a location where it is in its purest form. Miguel Cervantez was born nearby in Alcala de Henares, which adds an additional emphasis since his literature is known by many as the greatest usage of the written Spanish language. Madrid is also home to Spain's largest University which once resided in Alcala, so the overall background of the city gives a legitimate atmosphere of the languages development.

Madrid hosts 3 of the most amazing museums in the world including El Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza. Each offers a different emphasis that can play to any individuals preference, however all three are amazing in their own right. You truly get a feel for Spain's deep history by viewing each of the amazing works of art. Our Spanish school director is known to give an amazing guided tour of El Prado that really brings the history to life, as you see what each artist was representing in their works of art.

Just walking the streets of Madrid is an experience all its own. The city was developed over many centuries and the buildings are amazing with their rich history and craftsmanship. You may find the most beautiful art being represented on the facade of a simple bank or office building. Our Spanish school is located right in the city center only 5 minutes from the Puerta del Sol in a building that is over 100 years old. These buildings are continually renovated over time to keep them alive but they are extremely careful to preserve their historic significance and craftsmanship.

The school is also near the massive Plaza Mayor where many artists and street peformers congregate to entertain anyone walking around or dining in the plaza. Only a short distance away, near El Prado, you will find the stunning Retiro Park which provides for a great place to run, exercise, or just relax from everyday urban living. There is an amazing metro system that will take you everywhere in the city including the airport, however by walking you can see great sites such as the Royal Place and its gardens, the Opera House, and many other landmarks that give Madrid the atmospher of being one giant museum.

Madrid is crowded with cafes, restaurants, and bars, where you can escape the heat and relax from your daily pursuit of what the city has to offer. The food is amazing and unique in its own right as you see upon arrival with giant ham legs hanging in the windows or from the ceilings in many establishments. The city has world class cuisine and is growing in significance around the world by providing a home to some of the greatest chefs. The night life is quite insane for its extravagance and general endurance of its revelers. Never before have I seen an city where you eat dinner between 10PM and Midnight  then head off to the club. Its not uncommon to see lines to get into a popular club at three in the morning. There are also pubs and quaint bars for those like me, that prefer a good night cap but don't want to party till the wee hours.

Since Madrid is in the center of the country with many means of transportation including bus, train, and flights, you can easily venture throughout Spain as well as the rest of Europe. The ease of which the transportation system operates helps in providing for great weekend excursions as you are only 2.5 hours by train from Sevilla to the South and Barcelona to the North.

You can learn Spanish in many cities across Latin America, and throughout Spain. There is not one perfect spot for everyone. The important factor is to consider what you want to be doing when you are not in class and what environment will allow you personally to best practice the language. Madrid is the perfect spot for many who love an urban environment and rich cultural sites. Obviously if want a beach location or small town it is not the choice for you, but if you want the crazy city life with tons of things to do and see, book your ticket now!