The Culture & Heritage stamp category includes, but is not limited to, the activities described below.
Please note that activities offered vary by availability.
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace of Madrid, considered one of the most impressive in Europe, is a towering structure with over 250 years of history. It is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family in the city of Madrid but is only used for state ceremonies. Former home to the Kings of Spain, from Carlos III to Alfonso XIII, Madrid’s beautiful Royal Palace is open to the public.
Senate & Parliament: Political walking tour
Join our political science professor on a walking tour that explores Spain’s young democracy, how it works, and what its challenges are. Participants will visit and learn about Madrid’s Senate, Parliament, the place where the socialist party was founded, and the monuments in Retiro Park and Atocha that pay homage to victims of terrorism.
Day Trips
Alcalá de Henares
Pay a visit to the Roman city of Complutum origin of Alcalá de Henares, birthplace of the writer Miguel de Cervantes (author of Don Quixote) and home to one of the most prestigious universities in Spain. Alcalá amazes its visitors with its monumental churches, convents, and picturesque streets.
Toledo
Syracuse Madrid offers students the possibility to relive the drama and excitement of some of the most amazing chapters in human history while enjoying this beautiful and historical city. Perched high up on a hill and surrounded by the Tajo River on all but the north side, Toledo initially seems more like a stone fortress than a city.
In the past, and perhaps even more so today, Toledo was known as “the city of the Three Cultures” because under tolerant Muslim reign, there lived a significant Jewish population alongside a Christian minority. This cultural coexistence has left behind many amazing legacies: beautiful synagogues, mosques, and churches. Now, with the growth of tourism in Spain, Toledo has now become not just a favorite, but also a must-see for visitors to the Madrid area.
Segovia
Segovia is a quaint medieval World Heritage City built around a beautiful castle, a magnificent Gothic cathedral, and an impressive Roman aqueduct. It also boasts an old Jewish Quarter, stately homes, outstanding views, and a vibrant greenway, which is ideal for a pleasant stroll in the sunshine. In Segovia, you will feel and taste Spain’s very essence as we learn about its vibrant history.
El Escorial
El Escorial is an awe-inspiring palace-monastery complex just outside Madrid, which served as the residence of King Philip II and his court. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984, the Monastery and Real Sitio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial are the soul of this mountain town, which attracts thousands of visitors every year. Students will have the opportunity to learn about El Escorial in situ on the Syracuse Madrid day trip.