WHAT'S NEW IN MADRID?

WHAT'S NEW IN MADRID? - Madrid has continued to work tirelessly to offer its visitors the best experiences in a safe way. In 2021 it has its sights set on the opening of new infrastructures focused on the premium sector and on an unrivalled cultural and leisure offer that firmly establishes the city as one of the leading destinations for international urban tourism. The capital of Spain serves up unique offerings that awaits you once borders are open and travel returns; including places to visit, restaurants in Madrid and where to go around the city.

THE EMBLEMATIC RITZ HOTEL IS BACK

After the most ambitious and extensive refurbishment in its 110-year history, the iconic hotel is set to reopen its doors, under the name Mandarin Oriental Ritz. The eagerly awaited reopening, which was originally scheduled for last year, will allow us to once again enjoy the majestic hotel that has retained its unique Belle-Époque style but now has a more contemporary feel to it. Throughout the restoration process, the team which included architect Rafael de la Hoz, interior designer Dorothée Boissier and Madrid-born artist Paula Anta worked hard to ensure the building retained its unique character.

Located in the heart of the Art Triangle, next to the major art galleries, it will continue to maintain the cultural and social role it has always had. Projects involving artists, artisans, creators and firms from different disciplines will contribute to make the Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid a destination in its own right.

CENTURIES-OLD RESTAURANTS

Madrid is home to twelve centuries-old restaurants that in 2021 have been declared cultural and tourism sites of great civic importance and general interest to the city. They represent tradition, culture and gastronomy, and are part of Madrid's exceptional culinary legacy. Botín (1725), Lhardy (1839), Casa Alberto (1827), and Bodega de la Ardosa (1892) are some of these time-honoured establishments in which you can savour many of Madrid's most traditional dishes, such as Cocido (Madrid-style stew), Soldaditos de Pavía (battered and deep-fried cod with red peppers), and Callos (tripe), or just enjoy a caña of beer, a glass of vermouth on tap, or wines from the region.

To make things even easier for you, we have prepared an illustrated map of restaurants and taverns that first opened more than a century ago. These restaurants awaits you to enjoy iconic cuisines that never go out of style as you delve deeper into the history and culture of Madrid.

MADRID, THE IBERO-AMERICAN CAPITAL OF GASTRONOMICAL CULTURE

Throughout 2021, Madrid will be the Ibero-American Capital of Gastronomic Culture. A title that it has held since last year, it honours the bonds of union and its more than 500 years of shared history. The capital of Spain, the natural gateway to the flavours of Iberian America, offers you the opportunity to enjoy one of the most fun ways of experiencing its gastronomy, crossing the city in search of different culinary experiences. Make the most of this opportunity and go on, treat yourself!

With its new hotels, luxury infrastructures, gastronomy of the past and present, a thrilling cultural offering and a great desire to once again welcome visitors from near and far, Madrid is an unmissable city for your travels once borders open.

ANNIVERSARY OF BARON THYSSEN

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of Hans Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza, and the museum that has borne his name since 1992 is commemorating the centenary with a series of exhibitions and activities that further enhance the city's already intense cultural offer. With this tribute, the art gallery wishes to thank him for his decision to bring his collection to Spain, undoubtedly one of the most important contributions to the culture of our country in modern times.

The commemoration will take place throughout the year. It will feature unmissable events for art lovers, such as the exhibition Precious Metalwork, Paintings, and Sculptures from Baron Thyssen-Bornemisza's Collection, which will remain open until January 2022, and American Art, with 170 pieces that are a reference point for its knowledge and study in the context of Europe.