Books

  • 1. The Fountains of Silence (Ruta Sepetys)

    This historical novel transports readers to the post-Civil War Madrid during the 1950s, a time of great secrecy and political oppression under General Francisco Franco's regime. The story revolves around the lives of Daniel, a young American photographer, and Ana, a Spanish hotel maid. As they navigate the intricacies of a country grappling with its tumultuous past, their paths intertwine.

  • 2. Winter in Madrid (C.J. Sansom)

    Set against the backdrop of post-Civil War Spain in the aftermath of General Francisco Franco's rise to power, this novel paints a vivid picture of the harsh realities of Franco's Spain. "Winter in Madrid" is a compelling exploration of the human cost of political upheaval and the choices people make when faced with extraordinary circumstances.

  • 3. The Sun Also Rises (Ernest Hemingway)

    "The Sun Also Rises" is a classic novel set in the aftermath of World War I. The story follows a group of expatriates, including the protagonist, Jake Barnes, as they embark on a journey from Paris to Pamplona to witness the running of the bulls. Even though it’s not set entirely in Madrid, several important chapters and scenes of the novel demonstrate the love that Hemingway had for the city.

Movies

  • 1. Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown (Pedro Almodóvar)

    This is a vibrant and darkly comedic Spanish film that explores the tumultuous lives of women dealing with love, loss, and emotional chaos in Madrid. The film follows the character Pepa, a voice-over actress, as she navigates a series of bizarre and hilarious events, including her lover's sudden departure and encounters with a string of eccentric characters.

  • 2. Valeria (TV show)

    "Valeria" is a Spanish TV series you can watch on Netflix. It's based on books by Elísabet Benavent and revolves around the life of the titular character, Valeria, a writer who navigates the challenges of love, friendship, and career in the bustling city. The series provides a contemporary and relatable portrayal of modern life in Madrid, including the city's vibrant culture, urban settings, and the personal and professional journeys of its characters.

  • 3. Pain and Glory (Pedro Almodóvar)

    This poignant and introspective film, set in Madrid, delves into the life of a renowned filmmaker, Salvador Mallo, portrayed brilliantly by Antonio Banderas. The movie explores themes of aging, memory, and creative expression as Salvador reflects on his past, including his strained relationship with his mother and a rekindled friendship with an old lover.