Madrid is a fascinating city and there are many things to see. Here is a list of some of Madrid's most popular sights.
The Temple of Debod is one of the great hidden treasures of Madrid. It is located near the Plaza of Spain next to the Parque del Oeste. This Egyptian temple was once in the Valley of the Nile, 31km (19 miles) from Aswan. Because the temple was threatened, the Egyptian government decides to dismantle it and gave it to Spain. The monument was torn down stone by stone in 1969 and 1970. Later it was sent to Valencia and taken by train to Madrid, where it was rebuilt and opened in 1971.
Inside is a museum located in the garden area beside Pintor Rosales Avenue near West Park, with panoramic views to the east of the Casa de Campo and the northwest of the Sierra de Guadarrama.
Debod Temple, is located next to a large pool in a park with beautiful views of the Almudena Cathedral and the city of Madrid. It is very well lit at night and has a wonderful reflection on the water. The park surrounding the temple is one of the best places in Madrid to see (and photograph) the sunset.
It is possible to access to the interior of the Temple, although the interior has not been very well maintained, and admission is free. Inside you will find valuable information about the Egyptian culture, mythology and hieroglyphics.
The temple is closed on Mondays and holidays 1 and 6 January, 1 May, 25 December. Its unique internal structure makes for safety, only allowed a maximum of 60 people at a time.
The Temple of Debod is close to the shopping streets of the city: Gran Via and Princesa, tourist attractions or places like Spain and East. Nearby you will find museums and cultural centers: the Cerralbo Museum, the Hermitage of San Antonio de la Florida or the Royal Palace.
The beautiful grounds of the Temple of Debod are used by most people as a perfect place to have a picnic.
You can access the Templo de Debod by public transport:
Metro: Station Plaza of Spain (lines 3 and 10) and Ventura Rodríguez (line 3)
RENFE rail: Príncipe Pío station
Images Credit:
Templo de Debod Madrid por Min Master Flickr Gallery
Temple of Debod Madrid por Dalbera Flickr Gallery
Templo de Debod por ARMK Flickr Gallery