
Madrid is the capital of Spain and one of the largest cities in the European Union. Here, the peloton, or main pack in a bicycle race, makes its way through the streets of Madrid during the Men's Under-23 World Road Race Championship on Sept. 24, 2005.

The Plaza Mayor, a large rectangular square in Madrid, is seen from the air. The Plaza Mayor was finished in 1617 and is now a popular tourist attraction.

Here, Madrid is seen from the air. Madrid is the largest city in Spain.

A view through the pillars at the Circulo de Bellas Artes building shows the city of Madrid. The Circulo de Bellas Artes is a nonprofit organization that supports the arts.

Another view from the Circulo de Bellas Artes building shows Madrid's skyline. Some parts of Madrid were built in the 12th century and still exist today.

This exterior view shows the façade of Madrid's Teatro Espanol. Originally an open-air theater, the Teatro Espanol has been rebuilt, revitalized and modernized over a span of more than 400 years.

The full moon rises over the Plaza de Cibeles. The Plaza is one of the most well-known destinations in Madrid.

Madrid's Claustro de San Jerónimo el Real, also known as Los Jerónimos, was built in the 16th century. Because of numerous restorations, most of its external features are more modern.

A statue of Miguel de Cervantes stands at Madrid's Plaza de las Cortes. Cervantes wrote the famous novel "The Ingenious Hidalgo Don Quixote of La Mancha."

The Congress of Deputies, or Congreso de los Diputados, is part of Spain's legislative branch of government. A statue of a lion stands outside of the building.

People walk through the square outside the Museo del Prado museum and art gallery. Its extensive collections make it a popular destination for tourists and art aficionados.

One of Madrid's busiest locations, Puerta del Sol is at the heart of the city. Its name means "sun gate."

The Crystal Palace, or Palacio de Cristal, is in Madrid's Retiro Park. The palace was designed in 1887 by Ricardo Velázquez Bosco.

The Plaza de Cibeles is full of statues and fountains, including one that portrays the Greek goddess Cybele.

Madrid's distinctive Metropolis building is illuminated at night. The building was once the headquarters of an insurance company.