History of Madrid

During the 9th century the region of Madrid was controlled by the arabs. A castle strategically positioned in view of the main pass leading down from the mountains was an important military outpost used to keep a keen eye for Christian invaders.

Christian forces made several unsuccessfully attempts to overpower the muslims but it wasn't until 1086, that Alfonso VI was able to capture Madrid. This region was constantly besieged and under attack. Madrid was just another medieval village until it started gaining popularity by the 14th century and eventually became the seat of the Royal Court. This was a period of relative political stability. The power of christians grew and the spanish empire flourished. Madrid was declared capital of the Spanish Empire in 1561. Madrid was again neglected during the rule of Felipe IV losing much of its splendor in the 1700's. During the reign of Felipe V Madrid flourished again. Many buildings were built including bridges, hospitals and monuments.

In 1759, Carlos III came to power. He completely remodeled Madrid and was later considered one of the best rulers of Madrid. The 18th and 19th centuries were disastrous for Spain and Madrid and they kept losing all the remaining colonies. Madrid was thrown into a period of economic and political crisis. During the dictatorship of General Primo de Rivera in the 1920's Ciudad Universitaria was Constructed. In 1931 General Rivera stepped down from power making way for democratic elections.

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