From the Danube to the Manzanares

Germans and Austrians in Madrid

They undertook the long journey to southern Europe to try their luck in the Spanish capital, or simply because destiny brought them here.

For the queens of the Austrian Habsburgs, the path to Madrid was laid out, a political union had to be forged between the Catholic strongholds of Europe: Austria and Spain. But it was not just the female rulers who arrived in the rather improvised southern capital. Politicians, scientists, restaurateurs, artisans, writers or photographers and even thieves also ended up here. The entire spectrum of German-Austrian society could be seen in Madrid since the 16th century.

Anyone who looks a little beneath the surface will be surprised that Spanish and Madrid history is peppered with Central European influences. Whether it is Plaza Mayor, the “Barrio de los Letras” around Plaza Santa Ana, Paseo del Prado, Puerta de Alcalá or Gran Vía, everywhere we meet our compatriots in our search for footprints.

Reason enough to celebrate this heritage with a tour that not only takes us to some of the most famous monuments and neighborhoods in Madrid, but also pays tribute to extraordinary men and women. Our historical arc spans from Anne of Austria in the 16th century to Willy Brandt or Günther Grass at the turn of the millennium, from scientists thirsty for knowledge like Hugo Obermaier to Gerda Taro and Ilse Kucsar, artists and political activists in the dark moments of the Spanish Civil War.

Discover this fascinating chapter in the history of Madrid with me!