The Making of Madrid

How healthy is the famous Mediterranean diet really? And where can you stay fit in Madrid without breaking the bank? In this episode, I chat with personal trainer and nutrition coach Marietta Sandiland about navigating health and fitness in Spain's capital.In it Marietta shares the surprising truth about changing dietary patterns in Spain, where to find the best fresh produce, and how Madrid's incredible green spaces—from Casa de Campo to Parque del Oeste—offer free opportunities to stay active. We also discuss strength training basics, why even 15 minutes twice a week can make a difference, and how to adapt your fitness routine to busy Madrid life.For more about Marietta, go to her Instagram page: @mariettasandi_fitness or check out her podcast The Good FitVisit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠⁠⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠⁠⁠To support the Making of Madrid, consider buying a copy of ⁠⁠Quiet Madrid⁠⁠⁠, my guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places. You can also⁠ leave a tip⁠ to show your support.Or you could buy one of my ⁠⁠⁠audio tours on Voicemap⁠⁠⁠. Sign up for my ⁠⁠newsletter to get a free copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠⁠(visit themakingofmadrid.com if you can't use these links)

To get the best out of a stay in Madrid, it's important to stay in the right area. This episode covers the advantages and disadvantages of all the main barrios (neighbourhoods), so you can make an informed decision. It's an honest guide, so there are a couple of areas I recommend avoiding, but you'll have to listen to find out where they are. Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠⁠To support the Making of Madrid, consider buying a copy of ⁠⁠Quiet Madrid⁠⁠⁠, my guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places. You can also⁠ leave a tip⁠ to show your support.Or you could buy one of my ⁠⁠⁠audio tours on Voicemap⁠⁠⁠. Sign up for my ⁠⁠newsletter to get a free copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠⁠(visit themakingofmadrid.com if you can't use these links)

Season two of The Making of Madrid is on its way! Before the new episodes drop, I'm taking you behind the scenes with a roundup of my five favourite episodes from season one. From the wildly popular "Overrated and Underrated" episode to a deep dive into Madrid's hidden Islamic heritage, literary culture, and the story of a remarkably powerful woman in 16th-century Spain, this preview gives you a taste of what makes this podcast tick.In this episode, I also give you a sneak peek at what's coming in season two: neighbourhood guides, a complete breakdown of the Rastro market, tips for planning a perfect 3-day trip to Madrid, and lots of fascinating interviews lined up. Plus, I explain why I'm sticking with audio-only for solo shows (spoiler: it's not just about brushing my hair). If you're new to the podcast, this is your chance to catch up on the best of season one and get ready for everything that's coming next.Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠⁠⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠⁠⁠To support the Making of Madrid, consider buying a copy of ⁠⁠⁠Quiet Madrid⁠⁠⁠⁠, my guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places. You can also⁠⁠ leave a tip⁠⁠ to show your support.Or you could buy one of my ⁠⁠⁠⁠audio tours on Voicemap⁠⁠⁠⁠. Sign up for my ⁠⁠⁠newsletter to get a free copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠⁠⁠(visit themakingofmadrid.com if you can't use these links)

In this fruity festive issue from the archives, I reveal all about the history of the madroño or strawberry tree and explain why it's part of Madrid's iconography. I also delve into why Spanish people eat 12 grapes at New Year along with the bongs from the clock in Sol. This is an archive episode from 2024. For an updated blog post based on the episode, visit the ⁠Making of Madrid⁠, there you can also subscribe to my newsletter and ⁠get a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠.To support the Making of Madrid, consider buying a copy of ⁠Quiet Madrid⁠, my guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places. Or you could buy one of my ⁠audio tours on Voicemap⁠.

In this festive episode of Making of Madrid, I take you through the magical experience of Christmas in the Spanish capital. From bustling holiday markets and dazzling illuminations to the rich traditions of El Gordo lottery and Three Kings Day, discover everything you need to know to enjoy the festive season in Madrid. Whether you’re planning a visit or just curious about how the city celebrates, tune in for a lively discussion packed with tips, fun facts, and holiday cheer.This is an archive episode from 2024. For an updated blog post based on the episode, visit the Making of Madrid, there you can also subscribe to my newsletter and get a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook.To support the Making of Madrid, consider buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, my guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places. Or you could buy one of my audio tours on Voicemap.

Madrid's plazas are being systematically stripped of trees. In this last episode of the first season of The Making of Madrid, musician and activist AmyJo Doherty (sister of Pete Doherty) shares the story behind the "No a la Tala" movement—a campaign fighting to preserve Madrid's green spaces against development projects that prioritize tourism and construction over the city's trees.We discuss the metro expansion that destroyed trees in Arganzuela, the removal of shade from Plaza Santa Ana, the unscrupulous removal of a historic olive orchard for an upcoming Formula One circuit, and the ongoing battle at Matadero. Plus, how you can get involved in protests and support this cause.Follow AmyJo's Work: @piglady72 (Instagram) AmyJo Doh (YouTube)Get Involved in Madrid:#NoALaTala #VecinosContraLaTala #SOS Madrid #ElBarrioNoSeTalaOrganizations: Ecologistas en Acción | El Barrio No Se Tala | Vecinos Contra La TalaWatch: "No a la Tala" Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebookhttps://shr.pn/tiNHSupport The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  https://shr.pn/R1bOOr buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: https://shr.pn/YjK5

Narratives surrounding Spain's Jewish converts to Christianity and their descendants (known collectively as conversos) understandably focus on the victimization of this community. Historian Kevin Ingram shifts the perspective a little by asking what role they played as innovators in modern Spain. In the latest episode of the podcast to coincide with the presentation of his book Converso Non-conformism in Early Modern Spain at Secret Kingdoms bookshop on November 21, we discuss their role in bringing change despite persecution to deeply Catholic Spain. Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

Madrid is the only European capital founded by a Muslim ruler—a fact widely accepted in academic circles—yet traces of this Islamic heritage remain frustratingly hard to find. From poor signposting to restrictive opening hours, the city council seems to do little to highlight Madrid's true origins. In this two-part episode, released alongside my new Medieval Madrid Voicemap tour, I examine the archaeological evidence around the Royal Palace and La Latina to uncover why this significant history remains so hidden and set the record straight about the city's Islamic past.Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠⁠To support the Making of Madrid, consider buying a copy of ⁠⁠⁠Quiet Madrid⁠⁠⁠⁠, my guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places. You can also⁠⁠ leave a tip⁠⁠ to show your support.Or you could buy one of my ⁠⁠⁠⁠audio tours on Voicemap⁠⁠⁠⁠. Sign up for my ⁠⁠⁠newsletter to get a free copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠⁠⁠(visit themakingofmadrid.com if you can't use these links)

Madrid is the only European capital founded by a Muslim ruler—a fact widely accepted in academic circles—yet traces of this Islamic heritage remain frustratingly hard to find. From poor signposting to restrictive opening hours, the city council seems to do little to highlight Madrid's true origins. In this two-part episode, released alongside my new Medieval Madrid Voicemap tour, I examine the archaeological evidence around the Royal Palace and La Latina to uncover why this significant history remains so hidden and set the record straight about the city's Islamic past. Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠⁠To support the Making of Madrid, consider buying a copy of ⁠⁠Quiet Madrid⁠⁠⁠, my guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places. You can also⁠ leave a tip⁠ to show your support.Or you could buy one of my ⁠⁠⁠audio tours on Voicemap⁠⁠⁠. Sign up for my ⁠⁠newsletter to get a free copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠⁠(visit themakingofmadrid.com if you can't use these links)

David Price, owner of The Secret Kingdoms bookshop in Madrid takes us through some autumnal reads. He also discusses his personal essay about his love affair with Madrid that was published by Ybernia press in the recently released Stray Cats compilation as well as the Guide to Madrid’s Literary District, a book he and I launched last year.Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠To support the Making of Madrid, consider buying a copy of ⁠⁠⁠Quiet Madrid⁠⁠⁠⁠, my guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places. You can also⁠⁠ leave a tip⁠⁠ to show your support.Or you could buy one of my ⁠⁠⁠⁠audio tours on Voicemap⁠⁠⁠⁠. Sign up for my ⁠⁠⁠newsletter to get a free copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠⁠⁠(visit themakingofmadrid.com if you can't use these links)

Overtourism has become an increasing problem in Madrid with rising accommodation costs, endless queues and growing resentment from locals making tourists think twice before booking a trip. A trip to Kyoto this summer on assignment for Lonely Planet made me view the problem from a different angle as the Japanese city is dealing with similar issues. Is Madrid still worth visiting? Check out this latest episode to find out why I think it is and what you can do to avoid the crowds.To support the Making of Madrid, consider buying a copy of ⁠⁠⁠Quiet Madrid⁠⁠⁠⁠, my guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places. You can also⁠⁠ leave a tip⁠⁠ to show your support.Or you could buy one of my ⁠⁠⁠⁠audio tours on Voicemap⁠⁠⁠⁠. Sign up for my ⁠⁠⁠newsletter to get a free copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠⁠⁠(visit themakingofmadrid.com if you can't use these links)

Tucked away under the palace is this lush green oasis that not many people stumble upon because the access points are not that obvious. One of the destinations featured in my new book Quiet Madrid, this place is a world away from the Madrid most tourists encounter. For more, visit my blog. Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

Usera is a foodie's heaven with Chinese, South American and Spanish options galore. Here I've listed all my favourite places to eat out. If you follow my advice, I guarantee you'll eat well and cheaply. For links to restaurants, check my website.Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

Proof that there is fun to be had in August even though half the city has decamped to the beach! In this episode I introduce three festivals held in Lavapiés during our hottest month. In it you'll learn what a verbena, a vestido chinés and a manton de manila is as well as hear a little bit of my impromptu singing of a zarzuela classic! Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

Proof that there is life outside Madrid's M30 ring road, the second part of my Guide to Usera goes into what to see and do in Usera from checking out its groovy sundials, to mooching round Chinatown to cycling by the river. Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

My essential Madrid Summer Survival Guide takes you through strategies for enjoying Spain's capital during its scorching summer months. Join me as I explore how to navigate Madrid like a local when temperatures soar above 40°C (100F)—from booking accommodations in the cooler northern neighbourhoods to embracing the traditional siesta rhythm. I'll share insider tips on early morning explorations, air-conditioned cultural havens, refreshing green spaces, and nightlife that comes alive after sunset. Whether you're seeking refuge in historic churches with naturally cooling stone walls, planning your visit to municipal pools, or looking for the best rooftop terraces with cooling breezes, this guide delivers practical advice for travellers determined to experience Madrid's rich cultural offerings without melting in the Mediterranean sun.Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

In the heart of old Madrid and yet a world apart from the touristy mayhem surrounding the royal palace, La Latina is the perfect place to base a stay in the city. For me, the steeply sloping squares and cobbled streets of the barrio (neighbourhood) offer a tranquil retreat into historic Madrid. By contrast, the bustling Cava Baja and in Mercado de Cebada in the upper section are a foodie heaven. A little bit more grown-up than Malasaña and Lavapiés, it has a sophisticated, traditional vibe that's hard to beat, delivering the perfect mix for a delightful stay. For links, visit my website.

In this episode, I'll be exploring how short-term vacation rentals are contributing to the housing crisis in Madrid, where locals increasingly struggle with skyrocketing rents and limited housing availability. In it, you'll hear about the human impact of these changes and practical alternatives for responsible tourism. Despite sensationalist reports, Spaniards are not asking for all tourists to go home, merely that we fix a broken model. Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

To celebrate the Puertas Abiertas (open doors) art festival on May 31, this episode explores the history of Usera: how it went from being a quiet rural area to one of Madrid's most multicultural and creative districts. In it I talk about how the area resisted Nationalist troops during the Civil War, controversies over the name of its most famous estate and where most of its Chinese population hails from. The first of a three part guide to Madrid's Usera district, this one is close to my heart as this is my barrio (neighbourhood)!Further reading/watching:Colonias of MadridShanty towns in MadridEspacio Oculto organizes the Puertas Abiertas festivalVideo (in Spanish) about Qingtian, where most Chinese in Usera hail fromVisit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

It's the fiestas de San Isidro right now and to celebrate Madrid's biggest festival, here's a video of me discussing typically Madrileño terms with my husband Sergio de Isidro. Here you'll find out about festival food, how to dress as a chulapo and chulapa, how to dance the chotis and much more! Oh, and you'll also meet our gato (cat), Jiji, the most Madrileño member of our household!Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

In this episode, I sit down with Katharine Cannings, a teacher, author, TV presenter, and entrepreneur who's been running Fun Box English for 18 years. Katharine shares insights from her new book, Fluent Families: A Road Map to Your Bilingual Home, drawing on both her professional experience teaching English through storytelling and her personal journey raising bilingual children in Madrid. From debunking common myths about language acquisition to offering practical strategies for multilingual families, Katharine provides a refreshingly flexible approach to raising children who can navigate multiple languages and cultures with confidence.Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

To celebrate the launch of my new guidebook, this episode takes a close look at three featured destinations in Quiet Madrid: Campo del Moro gardens, the Museum of Arts and Traditions, and Cine Dore cinema. Here, I take a deep dive into the history of each of these places and give tips on how best to enjoy each experience. All of these off-the-beaten path attractions are far from your usual tourist traps and provide a welcome respite from the tumult of Spain's capital city.Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

Not all Madrid attractions are worth the hype! In this episode, I reveal the most overrated spots in the city—and where you should go instead. From overcrowded markets to underwhelming landmarks, I’ll break down why some famous places just don’t live up to expectations. But don’t worry, I won’t leave you hanging! I’ll also share my favorite underrated gems—hidden museums, quiet art spaces, and secret squares that most tourists miss. Whether you're planning a trip or just dreaming of Madrid, this episode will help you explore the city like a local.Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

Did you know Madrid produces some cracking wine? In this episode, I sit down with Luke Daracott, co-owner of Madrid & Daracott and host of The Spanish Wine Experience podcast, to find out more about Madrid’s wine scene. From an exploration of the region’s Garnacha and Albillo wines, to why local wines are still hard to find in Madrid’s bars, we covered a lot of ground. Whether you’re a wine lover or just curious about Madrid’s food and drink culture, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

Join me for a wild ride through Madrid's most rebellious festival - the Burial of the Sardine. From rotten fish and royal mishaps to Franco's ban and Goya's artistic legacy, discover the surprising story behind this unique Ash Wednesday celebration that turns Lenten solemnity on its head.Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

In today's episode, I'm diving into the fascinating world of Madrid's street names and the stories behind them. From ancient traditions and local legends to controversial changes in modern times, street signs tell us so much more than just how to navigate the city. Join me, as I uncover the tales behind some of Madrid's most intriguing street names, starting with a neighbourhood that button-makers, reformist mayors, and even beloved fictional characters have called home.Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

In this episode, I sit down with the presenter of Spain to Go to settle the burning question of which city is better. Daniel has lived in both Madrid and Barcelona so he's a great person to weigh in on this debate that runs the gamut from speaking Catalan, to beach life, to architecture, to the cost of living. Not one for football fans!Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

From 16th-century duels to modern-day issues with gang violence, discover how societal shifts, economic challenges, and cultural factors have shaped crime in the city. Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

A chat with Instagram foodie icon Joy Figueroa (aka JoyofMadrid) about the perfect tortilla, her passion for vermouth, the hottest restaurants in town, the best foodie souvenir to bring home from Madrid, the Mercado de Productores farmers' market, cocido and where to eat it, foodie phrases, the city's best foodie markets. Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

In this fruity festive issue, I reveal all about the history of the madroño or strawberry tree and explain why it's part of Madrid's iconography. I also delve into why Spanish people eat 12 grapes at New Year along with the bongs from the clock in Sol. Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

In this episode, I discuss the history of Madrid's literary hub, the Barrio de las Letras, and its famous writers. I also share book recommendations set in the city and interview James Hartley, editor of the newly launched Madrid ReviewVisit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

In this festive episode of Making of Madrid, I take you through the magical experience of Christmas in the Spanish capital. From bustling holiday markets and dazzling illuminations to the rich traditions of El Gordo lottery and Three Kings Day, discover everything you need to know to enjoy the festive season in Madrid. Whether you’re planning a visit or just curious about how the city celebrates, tune in for a lively discussion packed with tips, fun facts, and holiday cheer.

Officially the very first exile to Spain from Trump, Marsha Scarbrough knows a thing or two about life in Madrid as a US expat. This interview covers not only the practicalities but also the fun parts. Marsha is a fascinating character and I'm sure you'll find this one not only informative but entertaining.Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

In this episode, I dive into the fascinating intersection of Halloween and Día de Todos los Santos in Spain. I explore the history of these celebrations, from their religious roots to modern controversies over American Halloween traditions making their way into Spanish culture. Along the way, we discuss quirky customs, including spooky plays, cemetery visits, and my personal experiences with Madrid's Halloween festivities. Whether you're interested in Spain's cultural traditions or just love a good ghost story, this episode offers a unique perspective on how Madrid celebrates the season.Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

In this episode, I sit down with Clare Starkie to explore the intersection of language and culture in Spain, focusing on her work teaching English for the heritage industry. We discuss the unique dynamics of Madrid vs Barcelona, the often-overlooked history of the Manzanares River, and the fascinating prehistoric roots of Madrid. Clare shares insights into specialist English teaching and how it supports cultural preservation, offering a fresh perspective on the role of language in shaping the heritage industry in Spain.Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

In this episode, I talk with historian Caroline Fish, an expert on Spanish women in diplomacy during the Renaissance. Tune in if you're curious to hear about the life of Juana of Austria and her creation of the Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales as a center of royal power. We explore how convent life for aristocratic women in 16th-century Spain offered surprising freedom, delve into the role of ambassadresses in covert diplomacy, and reveal hidden treasures within the convent, including Juana's art collection. Caroline also highlights Juana's influence as Philip II’s trusted adviser and her niece Isabella Clara Eugenia’s connection with Rubens, bringing a much-needed female perspective to Renaissance history.Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠

In the introductory episode of The Making of Madrid, host Felicity Hughes gives a sneak peek into what her new podcast is all about. Drawing on her 12 years of living in Madrid and her experience as a journalist, she shares her passion for the city’s culture, history, and traditions. Felicity introduces listeners to the blend of storytelling, interviews, and travel tips they can expect in future episodes. Whether you’re visiting Madrid or thinking of moving, this episode offers a warm welcome and sets the stage for the exciting journey ahead!Visit my website and subscribe for a FREE copy of Madrid Beyond the Guidebook⁠https://shr.pn/tiNH⁠Support The Making of Madrid by buying a copy of Quiet Madrid, a guide to the city's tranquil spaces in hidden places.  ⁠https://shr.pn/R1bO⁠Or buy one of my Madrid audio tours from Voicemap: ⁠https://shr.pn/YjK5⁠