Madrid

During the first day in Madrid temperatures began soaring early morning, and by afternoon it was well over 100 degrees. Finding shade or an air conditioned shelter became the goal along with some sightseeing. Tomorrow weather predictions are for the same.

Although we're in Madrid, the Camino is still close at hand. There's regional Camino associations and a Camino de Madrid route, which connects to Camino Frances in Sahagun.

Covered streets offer shade.

By Puerta del Sol (Gate of the Sun) there's a plaque that marks the spot where Napoleon's troops in 1808 massacred Spanish protesters. They were rebelling against the emperor's appointment of his brother as king of Spain. Painter Francisco de Goya's Third of May, 1808 (at the Prado Museum) depicts this tragic event.

A "Menu del Dia" late lunch was at the air conditioned Restaurante-Cafeteria Europa -- yet another good Rick referral. We ate at the bar as he suggests.

The Almudena Cathedral provided a peaceful retreat. The Neo-Gothic church was completed in 1993 one hundred years after construction began. 

Modern Byzantine inspired art graces the dome above the altar.

A massive 5,000 pipe organ covers the west end. 

Only in Spain would there be a shop dedicated to jamon, a national staple.

Chocolateria San Gines is open 24 hrs. and famous for their churros with chocolate.

Some street and plaza names are designated in tile. 

Adjacent to the cathedral is the Royal Palace built in the 18th c. and Europe's largest. It's still the official residence for Spanish royalty and where state ceremonies are held, including official dinners attended by U.S. presidents.

Up the grand staircase Dad goes. 

From the palace doors you can look out to the expansive Plaza de la America where official ceremonies take place and where the evening heat hung in the air.