You will quickly discover that Madrid provides an ideal setting for a study abroad experience. As Spain’s capital as well as cultural and intellectual center, Madrid offers something for everyone. You will never run out of new areas to explore, along with monuments, museums, plazas, and tapas bars. Because of the large number of universities in the city, Madrid caters extensively to students, with lost cost eateries and endless nightlife. And its central location in Spain makes it an excellent hub for exploring rest of the country.

History and Culture

Although Madrid does not have the impressive history of Rome or Paris, it played an important part in the development of Spain. Although occupied since prehistoric times, Madrid does not receive notice until the late 10th century when it was ruled by the Moors. Madrid became the political center of Spain when Felipe II moved his Imperial Court to the city in 1561. From then on, Madrid developed into the city it is today, the home of some of the most important museums and cultural sites in Europe today.

Student Life

Madrid is a major university center, but because of the size of the city it is more diffused than in some smaller cities. However, Madrid abounds with restaurants, tapas bars, and theaters that cater to students. The city’s nightlife is endless and many students immerse themselves into madrileños culture by staying out with friends well past sunrise.

Fast Facts

Madrid is in the geographic center of the Iberian peninsula.
Madrid was founded in the ninth century as a fortress by Emir Muhammad I.
With a population of more than three million people, Madrid is Spain’s largest city.
There are more than 200,000 students studying at various universities in Madrid.