What's On Today: Tuesday 9 February 2010

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid offers the chance to meet English-speaking newcomers and long-term residents. The coffee morning takes place once a month in the home of a member that lives in your locality. Please check website for the date of the event in your area. Contact area4@incmadrid.com.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid offers the chance to meet English-speaking newcomers and long-term residents. The coffee morning takes place once a month in the home of a member that lives in your locality. Please check website for the date of the event in your area. Contact area5@incmadrid.com.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid 'Area 1' (La Moreleja, Ciudalcampo, Fuente del Fresno, Santo Domingo areas) Book Club meets once a month to discuss "good reads" and the "pick of the month" over coffee and cake. If interested, please contact area1@incmadrid.com for more info. INC members from all areas welcome.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid offers the chance to meet English-speaking newcomers and long-term residents. The coffee morning takes place once a month in the home of a member that lives in your locality. Please check website for the date of the event in your area. Contact area1@incmadrid.com.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid offers the chance to meet English-speaking newcomers and long-term residents. The coffee morning takes place once a month in the home of a member that lives in your locality. Please check website for the date of the event in your area. Contact area2@incmadrid.com.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid offers the chance to meet English-speaking newcomers and long-term residents. The coffee morning takes place once a month in the home of a member that lives in your locality. Please check website for the date of the event in your area. Contact area1@incmadrid.com.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid 'Area 1' (La Moreleja, Ciudalcampo, Fuente del Fresno, Santo Domingo areas) welcomes anyone who would like to join them for their 5K walk. The walk takes about an hour and then the group has coffee. If interested, please contact our Area 1 contact area1@incmadrid.com.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid offers the chance to meet English-speaking newcomers and long-term residents. The coffee morning takes place once a month in the home of a member that lives in your locality. Please check website for the date of the event in your area. Contact area4@incmadrid.com.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid 'Area 1' (La Moreleja, Ciudalcampo, Fuente del Fresno, Santo Domingo areas) Book Club meets once a month to discuss "good reads" and the "pick of the month" over coffee and cake. If interested, please contact area1@incmadrid.com for more info. INC members from all areas welcome.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid offers the chance to meet English-speaking newcomers and long-term residents. The coffee morning takes place once a month in the home of a member that lives in your locality. Please check website for the date of the event in your area. Contact area1@incmadrid.com.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid 'Area 1' (La Moreleja, Ciudalcampo, Fuente del Fresno, Santo Domingo areas) welcomes anyone who would like to join them for their 5K walk. The walk takes about an hour and then the group has coffee. If interested, please contact our Area 1 contact area1@incmadrid.com.

Collection of 160,000 pieces from the period preceding the eighteenth century to the present time, of which 21,000 are items of clothing chance. It also presents a chance to see a 16th century bodice and the funeral trousseau of Princess María, Fernando el Santo's daughter. At Museo del Traje. Centro de Investigación del Patrimonio Etnológico, Avda. Juan de Herrera 2. Open Tuesday to Saturday 09:30-19:00, Sunday 10:00-15:00. On Thursdays in August the Museum will be open until 22:30. Admission €3. Tel: 915 497 150.

Using pieces from the Museo de Los Origenes, the exhibition narrates the city's history from the prehistoric to the modern age. Evidence of early human beings as scavengers and hunter gatherers have been found in the San Isidro field, with Neanderthal remains being discovered. Technological evidence has been found dating from 7400 years ago. The Romans settled in the area, before Muhammed I founded Madrid in the 9th century as a strategic military point. It was from this seed that the modern city grew. At Museo de Los Orígenes, Pza. San Andrés 2. Open Tuesday to Friday 09:30 - 20:00 and weekends 10:00-14:00. Free admission. Tel: 913 667 415.

The exhibition comprises a number of artefacts from different museums in Peru such as textiles, pottery and metals. The pieces all have a common theme of being associated with the elaborate burial process of the ancient Paracas culture. The culture dates from around 100B.C. to 200A.D. and the items that have been recovered are extremely rare and valuable. The cloaks in particular stand out because of their size, preservation, design and iconography. At Museo de América, Avda. Reyes Católicos 6. Open Monday to Saturday 09:30-15:00 and Sundays 10:00-15:00. General admission €3. Concessions €1.50. Free admission under 18s and over 65s. Free admission to all on Sunday.

The Museo Sorolla was created in 1925 on the wish of Sorolla's widow, Clotilde García del Castillo. She made a will giving all her assets to the Spanish State to establish a Museum in memory of her husband. The Museum has belonged to the State since 1973 and is run by the Ministry of Culture. The Museum concentrates on paintings and drawings from the famous artist. At P. del General Martínez Campos 37. Tel: 913 101 584 / 913 101 731. Open Tuesday to Saturday 09:30-20:00 and Sundays and Bank Holidays 10:00-15:00. General admission €3. Free admission on a Sunday.

The rapid expansion of Madrid during the 1960s forced the city's officials to commission the building of a raised walkway that would enable communication between the eastern and western zones. On this 320m long and 16m wide lower part is displayed pieces of work from two generations of artists including Andreu Alfaro, Eduardo Chillida, Martín Chirino, Amadeo Gabino, Julio González and Rafael Leoz. At P. de la Castellana 41. Free admission.

The museum houses around 65,000 objects from around the world. Some of which date back to the 4th Century B.C. They reflect the decorative styles, the artistic relationships, and the importance of everyday and luxury objects throughout the centuries and include pieces from Chinese dynasties and Roman times. At C/ Montalban 12. Open Tuesday to Saturday 09:30-15:00, Thursday 17:00-20:00 and Sunday and Bank Holiday 10:00-15:00. General admission €3.

Housing displays to show the visitor the evolution of money, from the time of Ancient Greece to the present day. The museum is home to collections of coins, bills, lotteries, printed paper, models, designs, models, and studies and is generally considered one of the most important of its kind in the world. At C/ Doctor Esquerdo 36. Open Tuesday to Friday 10:00-17:30, Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays 10:00-14:00. Free admission.

The small bullfighting museum is divided into six zones where nearly 200 objects can be viewed. Dedicated to bullfighting, the museum houses paintings, portraits, sculptures, drawings, engravings (including the 'Tauromaquia' series by Goya), posters, capes from the 19th and 20th centuries and historical documentation. At C/ Alcalá 137. Open Tuesday to Friday 09:30-14:30. Free admission.

A display of instruments and apparatus explaining the evolution of science and technology from the second century to today, particularly in Spain. The pieces on display range from instruments used in the teaching of astronomy, mathematics and physics as well as the rotary press, gramophone, telephone, typewriter, radio and television. At P. de las Delicias 61. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10:00-14:00 and 18:00-20:00. Open Sunday and Bank Holiday 10:30-14:30. Free admission.

An exhibition dedicated to the explanation and demonstration of gravity. It attempts to bring the public closer to the world we live in by exploring the way in which gravity is present in a multitude of phenomena that occurs in everyday life. At Planetario de Madrid, C/ Parque Tierno Galván. Open Tuesday to Sunday 11:00-13:45 and 17:00-19:45. Admission €3.45 for adults and €1.50 for children.

The Royal Palace offers the opportunity to visit it's nine room gallery. The gallery houses many fine works including pieces by Nicolò Amati, González Velázquez, Luis Morales, Caravaggio and Goya. At Palacio Real, C/ Bailén s/n. Open from Monday to Saturday 10:00-13:30 and 15:00-17:00. Admission to the painting gallery €2.

An exhibition displaying varying Spanish medals dating from the 16th to the 20th century. In two cases, one display contains medals that mark the evolution of Spanish history, from Ferdinand the Catholic to Alfonso XIII while the other displays commemorative decorations celebrating leading men of Spanish culture, politics and science. At Museo Nacional del Prado, P. del Prado s/n. Open Tuesday to Sunday 09:00-20:00. General admission €8.

The permanent exhibition in the National Archaeological museum covers thousands of years from the Egyptians, the Greeks and the Romans to the modern era. On display are pieces such as delicate ivory objects, Roman sculptures, Greek portraits and Iberian vessels. At Museo Arqueológico Nacional, C/ Serrano 13. Open Tuesday to Saturday 09:30-20:00 and Sunday 09:30-15:00. Free admission.

The museum offers a journey through the history of European painting including pieces from artists such as Duccio, Van Eyck, Carpaccio, Lucas Cranach, Dürer, Caravaggio, Rubens, Frans Hals, Van Gogh, Gauguin, Kirchner, Mondrian, Klee, Hopper, and Rauschenberg. Also on display are representations from early Italian and Dutch art, German Renaissance, 17th-century Dutch painting, impressionism, German expressionism, Russian constructivism, geometric abstraction, and pop art. At Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, P. del Prado 8. General admission €8.00 reduced admission €5.50.

More than 15,000 fossils, minerals and rocks on public display at the Geominero (Geomineral) Museum, a scientific institution with over 150 years of history. Located on the first floor of the Geological and Mining Institute of Spain, this museum is a treasure on its own displaying items such as traces left by trilobites 500 million years ago, fossils of frogs with details of the muscles and even remnants of the stomach content, gold nuggets measuring several centimetres and pyrite crystals of La Rioja. At Museo Geominero - Instituto Geológico y Minero de España, C/ Ríos Rosas 23. Open Monday to Sunday 09:00-14:00 Free admission.

The exhibition on permanent display at the Natural Science Museum brings together different types of fossils which show the evolution of the planet and its inhabitants over millions of years. On display is a Diplodocus, as well as a broad assortment of minerals and fossils. At Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, C/ José Gutiérrez Abascal 2. Open Tuesday to Friday 10:00-18:00, Saturday 10:00-20:00 and Sunday 10:00-14:30. General admission €5, reduced admission €3.

A look at the animal and vegetable species that coexisted with the dinosaurs millions of year ago, and which continue to exist among us. At Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, C/ José Gutiérrez Abascal 2. Open Tuesday to Friday 10:00-18:00, Saturday 10:00-20:00 and Sunday 10:00-14:30. General admission €5, reduced admission €3.

Award-winning photo-journalist Bru Rovira presents a selection of his images that transport us to different countries and cultures, showing how conception and child rearing are experienced around the world. The displays from the journalist from Barcelona will also be accompanied by work created by some of the school children involved. At CaixaForum Madrid, P. del Prado 36. Open Monday to Sunday 10:00-20:00. Free admission.

The British artist and photographic pioneer is known for her large black and white photography installations. Her work is highly poetic and political and is based collective experiences of memory, history and everyday life. The exhibition will include three multi-screen films and a series of related photographs. At CaixaForum Madrid, P. del Prado 36. Open Monday to Sunday 10:00-20:00. Free admission.

Museo Nacional del Prado introduces visitors to works belonging to other museums. On loan is the piece entitled 'La Compañía del Capitán Reinier Reael' (The Company of Captain Reinier Reael) by Franz Hals and Pieter Codde which dates from 1637. In the picture the two artists portrayed 16 soldiers. The work belongs to the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. At Museo Nacional del Prado, P. del Prado s/n. Open Tuesday to Sunday 09:00-20:00. General admission €8. Reduced admission €4. Free admission in the evenings from 18:00-20:00 and 17:00-20:00 Sunday.

The Museo Nacional del Prado introduces a wide selection of pieces embracing all the characteristic genres of the Dutch school. From seascapes and winter landscapes to still life and portraits. Among the main pieces in the exhibition is Rembrandt's 'Artemis, or Judith before Holofernes'. At Museo Nacional del Prado, P. del Prado s/n. Open Tuesday to Sunday 09:00-20:00. General admission €8, reduced admission €4. Free admission evenings 18:00-20:00 and 17:00-20:00 on Sunday.

Finnish architect Reimi Pietilä has worked mainly in cooperation with his wife Raili Pietilä. This exhibition displays original drafts, scale models, photographs, copies of drawings and descriptive texts regrading nine of their most important projects. They are most renowned for the design of the Dipoli building of the Student Union of the Helsinki University of Technology. At Museo Colecciones ICO, C/ Zorrilla 3. Open Tuesday to Saturday 11:00-20:00 and Sunday 10:00-14:00. Free admission.

The themed exhibition allows spectators to go back to their childhood as it displays toys and pieces related to the circus. Items such as posters, dolls, cut-outs and mechanical toys that reproduce animals, acrobats and clowns will be on show. At Museo del Traje. Centro de Investigación del Patrimonio Etnológico, Avda. Juan de Herrera 2. Open Tuesday to Saturday 09:30-19:00 and Sunday 10:00-15:00. Free admission.

Inaugurated to spread knowledge about the natural world, a visit to the museum is a chance to explore the diversity of animal life, from the smallest insects to the skeleton of a huge dinosaur. The museums most notable pieces include an elephant that was hunted by King Alfonso XIII at the beginning of the twentieth century and a giant squid, measuring 8 metres, that was found off the coast of Asturias. Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, C/ José Gutiérrez Abascal 2. Open Tuesday to Friday 10:00-18:00, Saturday 10:00-20:00 (10:00-15:00 July and August) and Sunday 10:00-14:30. Admission €5. Concessions €3.

A look at over a century of Spain's aeronautical history with 130 fighters, bombers, rescue helicopters and replicas of historical planes. The collection includes modern day fighters such as the Mirage and the MiG to vintage bi-planes and bombers from WWI and WWII. Visitors can also see a large collection of weapons and equipment from the air force, including uniforms and pistols, insignia and models. At Museo del Aire, Aeronaútica y Astronaútica, Ctra. De Extremadura km 10.500. Open Tuesday to Sunday 10:00-14:00. Free entry.

Based in two places, the museum gives the visitor the chance to experience the Metro and life in Madrid in the first and second parts of the 20th century. Housed in the old Pacífico motor plant is a trip to the city's industrial past with the huge 5000 kw generators that supplied power to the Metro and to the entire city during the war. It can be located at Andén0 (Nave de Motores de Pacífico), C/ Valderribas 49. The old Chamberí station is the second part of the museum. Having previously been closed down in 1996, it has now been restored to its former glory and visitors can now walk through the station as it was in the 50s. It can be located at Andén0 (Estación de Chamberí), Pl. Chamberí s/n. Both museums are open Tuesday to Friday 11:00-19:00 and at the weekends 10:00-14:00. Free entry.

Housed in the Museo de Colecciones ICO, is a collection of Spanish artwork from the 80s from artists devoted to showing Spain's creative flair. Pieces include work by Alfonso Albacete, Carlos Alcolea, Carmen Álvarez, Frederic Amat, Eduardo Arroyo, Miquel Barceló, José Manuel Broto, Miguel Ángel Campano, Cristian Domecq, Francisco Farreras, Carlos Franco, Ferrán García Sevilla, Pilar Insertis and Darío Villalba. At Museo de Colecciones ICO, C/ Zorrilla 3. Open Tuesday to Saturday 11:00-20:00 and 10:00-14:00 on Sunday and bank holiday. Free admission.

An exhibition aimed at showing the highlights in the evolution of Spanish sculpture throughout the 20th century. It includes work by Manolo Hugué, Julio González, Pablo Gargallo, Pablo R. Picasso, Juan Gris, Joaquín Torres García, Alberto Sánchez, Antoni Gaudí, Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí, Jorge Oteiza, Eduardo Chillida and Antonio López. At Museo Colecciones ICO, C/ Zorrilla 3. Open Tuesday to Saturday 11:00-20:00 and Sunday and bank holidays 10:00-14:00. Free admission.

Through documents, objects and reproductions, the Museum of the City offers the chance to see the urban and infrastructural changes in the city over the centuries. Spread over 5 floors, the visitor can experience temporary exhibitions as well as see what the city was like from pre-historic, through to Roman, Muslim and Bourbon times. The fourth floor is dedicated to the building works of the 19th and 20th centuries such as the Puerta del Sol and the Plaza del Oriente. At Museo de la Ciudad, C/ Príncipe de Vergara 40. Open Tuesday to Friday 9:30-20:00 and Saturday and Sunday 10:00-14:00. Free admission.

The first Bourbon king, Phillip V approved the construction of the academy in 1744. It has become an exhaustible source of inspiration for Spanish culture over the centuries. It houses numerous pieces such as 'El entierro de la sardina' by Goya and 'La primavera' by Arcimboldo as well as housing the National Metal Engraving Museum, archives and a library. At Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando, C/ Alcalá 13. Open Tuesday to Saturday 9:00-17:00 and 9:00-14:30 Sunday and bank holidays. Admission €3.

The National Museum of Science and Technology presents an exhibition that explains ordered thought and development before the renaissance. Using a fictitious dialogue between Einstein and a young Cro-Magnon girl about the intelligence and creativity of human beings, the visitor glimpses the history of knowledge and technological development. At Museo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología, P. de las Delicias 61. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10:00-14:00 and 16:00-18:00 and Sundays and bank holidays 10:30-14:30. Free admission.

The exhibition contains the recent works of 17 prominent Chinese artists, all of which are based in Beijing. The show displays examples of the latest Chinese artistic creation using photographs, videos, video-installations, cinema and performances. At Matadero Madrid, Paseo de la Chopera, 14. Open Tuesday to Friday 16:00-22:00 and Saturday and Sunday 11:00-22:00. Free entry.

Seven million people have seen the exhibition that features life-sized mechanical dinosaurs. It is a chance to journey back in time 65 million years to see 34 different species of dinosaur in their habitat including the seven meter tall Tyrannosaurus Rex. Open Tuesday to Thursday 10:00-14:00, Friday 10:00-14:00 and 17:00-20:00 and weekends 11:00-20:00. At Puente del Rey, Príncipe Pío. Free admittance for children under 3, children 3-12 €4, and adults over 12, €6. Tickets also available on www.entradas.com.

Poetry, novels, short stories, plays and non-fiction in English. Meets every Tuesday evening at 21:00 at Cafe Isadora, Calle Divino Pastor 14. No fees or requirements. New members always welcome. For more information please contact madridwriters@patchword.com.

Monthly fiction and non-fiction book club. Please contact eee@fontventa.com or 915 423 598 for more details.

Parque de Atracciones de Madrid offers amusement and relaxation for all the family. Rollercoasters, rapids or strolls surrounded by nature there is something for everyone. For younger children there is a special kid's area with 16 mini rides, fairy tale characters, slides and puppets. At Casa de Campo. Full tickets priced at €28.60 for adults (over 7 years old) and €21 for childres (3-6 years old). Tel: 915 268 031.

One of the most important zoos in the world, the Zoo Aquarium of Madrid takes us across five continents to discover over 2000 species. For younger children there is also the hobby farm. Admission €18.50 for adults (over 7 years old) and €15 for children (3-6 years old). See website for opening hours. Tel: 915 123 770.

The world´s richest ecosystems as well as different habitats and natural surroundings convene in this biological park. It houses more than 4000 animals, many plant and tree species and has many documentaries and learning aids throughout. It provides a place for visitors to interact with nature like no other. At Avenida de las Comunidades, 28. Opens 10:00. Prices €24.70 for adults and €19.10 for children and senior citizens.

Hundreds of waxwork replicas of world famous cultural figures, sports stars and political leaders from around the globe. In the museum we can see models of famous people such as Fernando Torres, Rafa Nadal, Penelope Cruz, Miguel de Cervantes, Bart Simpson and Harry Potter. Also included are attractions like the Horror Train and simulators which recreate life in space and the centre of the earth. At Paseo de Recoletos, 41. Open Monday to Friday, 10:00-14:30 and 16:30-20:30. Open 10:00-20:30 Saturday and Sunday. Admission €15 for adults and €10 for children and over 60s.

A place to explore the cosmos and astral phenomena. Designed in 1986 by the City Council of Madrid, the planetarium shows screenings about the cosmos, gives the opportunity to look through telescopes and explains natural happenings such as black holes. There are live feeds of the planets as well as scale models, exhibitions and activities. At Avenida del Planetario, 16. Open Tuesday to Friday 17:00-19:45 and weekends 11:00-1:45 and 17:00-20:45. Entrance €3.55 for adults and €1.55 for children.

The original Tooth Fairy; Ratón Pérez was the first to collect a child's tooth - the tooth of Prince Alfonso XIII in 1904. His notoriety grew and word spread across Europe to France and the UK with the Tooth Fairy and Petit Souris. The museum combines lots of games, theatre and entertainment with historic documentation about the character as well as exhibits including the milk teeth from people like Beethoven, Newton, Rosalía de Castro and Beatrix Potter. At Casa Museo Ratón Pérez, C/ Arenal 8. Open Monday to Saturday 10:30-14:30 and 16:30-20:30. Entrance €1.

Micrópolix is the first educational leisure centre for children in Europe. Children can discover, investigate, participate and have fun while gaining knowledge and attitudes that are necessary for living in a small scale representation of the most emblematic places in Madrid. With qualified teachers and staff, Micropolix promotes ethical values like equality and tolerance. At Micropolix, C/ Julio Rey Pastor 17. Open Tuesday to Thursday, Saturday and Sunday 10:00-15:30. Friday 17:00-21:00. Priced €22.

A safe venue for children's games with fluffy, flexible, elastic, soft materials that are hypo-allergenic and poison free. With lots of supervision, everything is aimed at children's enjoyment with maximum safety. With ball pools, slides, traps, tunnels and rollers children up to the age of 12 can enjoy themselves fully with friends. At Teleférico de Madrid, Pº del Pintor Rosales 42. Further information, directions and prices listed on the Teleferico website.

The XIV International Festival of Performing Arts for Children and Young People. This edition will feature 36 different companies from around the world that will perform a range of shows including circus, dance performances, puppet shows, storytelling, theatre and music performances across 60 different venues across the city. At various venues. Prices and times vary. Please check website for further information.

Seven million people have seen the exhibition that features life-sized mechanical dinosaurs. It is a chance to journey back in time 65 million years to see 34 different species of dinosaur in their habitat including the seven meter tall Tyrannosaurus Rex. Open Tuesday to Thursday 10:00-14:00, Friday 10:00-14:00 and 17:00-20:00 and weekends 11:00-20:00. At Puente del Rey, Príncipe Pío. Free admittance for children under 3, children 3-12 €4, and adults over 12, €6. Tickets also available on www.entradas.com.

A co-production by the Centro Dramático Nacional and with the Teatre Nacional de Catalunya sees a production of theatre and dance. A family that have become wealthy through fortune. The mother decides to have a ball at their home but behaves cruelly towards her fourteen year old daughter, not letting her attend. It is a story of plot and revenge. At Teatro Valle Inclán, Pza. Lavapiés s/n. Tickets available from the theatre box office everyday from 12:00 priced €15-€18. Performance dates vary. Please check website for details of shows.

The tenth edition of the festival for experimental international productions. It will feature over 80 shows of theatre, dance, music, circus and performing arts from all around the world. Details of performances can be found on the website. Venues and admission prices vary.

The XIV International Festival of Performing Arts for Children and Young People. This edition will feature 36 different companies from around the world that will perform a range of shows including circus, dance performances, puppet shows, storytelling, theatre and music performances across 60 different venues across the city. At various venues. Prices and times vary. Please check website for further information.

Spread over a month and a half, the festival features 13 different dance shows from the most original, cutting-edge companies, dancers and choreographers around today. The range of styles on display will include flamenco, ballet and contemporary amongst others. Full programme available on the website. At Teatro de Madrid, Avda. de la Ilustración s/n. Tickets available from www.entradas.com and the theatre box office priced from €10-€22. Performance times vary.

The XIV International Festival of Performing Arts for Children and Young People. This edition will feature 36 different companies from around the world that will perform a range of shows including circus, dance performances, puppet shows, storytelling, theatre and music performances across 60 different venues across the city. At various venues. Prices and times vary. Please check website for further information.

New film releases shown in their original language version at the Yelmo Cineplex, C/ Doctor Cortezo 6. Programme updated weekly. Tel: 902 220 922. E-mail: ideal@yelmocpx.com.

A selection of English and original language films are show at the Cines Verdi, C/ Bravo Murillo 28. Programme updated weekly. Tickets €6.80 and €5. Tel: 914 473 930.

The Renoir cinemas show the latest film releases in their original language versions. Several movie theatres across Madrid. Tickets €6.50 and €6.80. Tel: 902 229 122.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid presents an opportunity to join the Out to Lunch Bunch. The group is interested in exploring great restaurants in and around Madrid. The INC Out to Lunch Bunch meets for lunch once a month to dine at our favourite places. For more information contact membership@incmadrid.com.

A group that meets monthly to sample Spanish wines and socialise. Those who attend the monthly Wine and Tapas should also be willing to host at least once a year. Spouses are invited to this event and each couple must bring a bottle of wine and a plate of tapas to share. Look for details of monthly gatherings in each issue of the International Newcomers Club of Madrid 'Nuevas Amigas' newsletter or contact wineandtapas@incmadrid.com for more details.

The tenth edition of the festival for experimental international productions. It will feature over 80 shows of theatre, dance, music, circus and performing arts from all around the world. Details of performances can be found on the website. Venues and admission prices vary.

An eclectic mix of music punctuated with appearances from guest bands, DJs and comics. At C/ Arenal, 11. From 23:30-06:00

Taking a lift to the top floor at midnight in this chic restaurant will see you transported to the resident club. Smart dress essential. C/ Jorge Juan, 99. Thursday to Saturday 00:00-03:00.

Resident DJs Timo and Roberto Jean at this bar play house music from 10:00-05:00, Tuesday to Saturday. C/ Santa Teresa, 3.

Cafe and club playing an eclectic mix of music including funk, jazz, pop and rock. C/ Caballero de Gracia, 10. Open daily 18:00-03:00.

Club with regular live acts playing funk, house, rock, reggae and soul. C/ Lavapiés, 37. Open daily 00:00-03:00.

Live music every night playing blues, jazz, funk and soul. At Plaza Santa Bárbara, 10. Open daily 23:00-06:00

Cafe club playing live funk music and jam sessions. C/ Caños Viejos, 3. Open 22:30-06:00.

Open every night of the week playing popular indie hits from the 90s and beyond. At C/ Martín Machio, 2. From 21:00 Sunday to Thursday and 22:00 Friday and Saturday.

Group of Spaniards and foreigners in Madrid meet to practice languages and socialise. Tuesdays at O'Neill's, Principe 12 (metro Sol). Ask for David. 22:00. Info: puestres@yahoo.es. Tel: 915 752 378.

Weight Watchers support group meets at Saint George's Church of Madrid every Monday at 10:30 and Tuesdays at 15:00 and 19:00. Tel: 915 765 109.

Four player Chinese game organised by the AWC at the clubhouse, Plaza de la República del Ecuador 6, from 11:00.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid offers the chance to meet English-speaking newcomers and long-term residents. The coffee morning takes place once a month in the home of a member that lives in your locality. Please check website for the date of the event in your area. Contact area3@incmadrid.com.

'Out Loud English...' have partnered with "Ole Lola" to bring you this exciting opportunity to improve your language skills and have fun. "Hello Lola!" is the newest language exchange and meet-up event in Madrid. Whether you prefer to learn English or Spanish the event brings native Spaniards and English speakers together for an evening of conversation and fun at one of Madrid’s coolest night spots. At Ole Lola, C/ San Mateo, 28. Contact hellololaintercamios@gmail.com for more information.

Discover the home of Real Madrid CF. Stand amongst the 80,000 capacity and look down from the dizzying heights onto the field of play. Visit the VIP boxes and the changing rooms and sit where the president and the players have sat and relaxed. Visitors can also experience the playing field and the the benches as well as viewing the trophy room with its haul of 31 league titles, 9 European Cups, 3 Intercontinental Cups and the European Super Cup. At Santiago Bernabéu, Paseo de la Castellana. Open Monday to Friday 10:00-19:00 and Sundays 10:30-18:30. Open game days until 6 hours before kickoff. Price €15 for adults and €10 for children under 14. Tickets available from Window 10 (Gate 7).

The Atlético Madrid museum consists of over 1000 objects spread throughout five areas and across 450 square metres. Included in the memorabilia are shirts, boots, trophies, photographs and other items depicting the club's 103 year history. There is a projection room where fans can see exciting moments from the club's history and also an interactive room. At Estadio Vicente Calderón (Gate 23), Paseo de los Melancólicos, 69. Open Tuesday to Sunday 11:00-19:00. General entrance 6 €, guided tour 8 €.

In association with The International Newcomers Club of Madrid is the chance to practise your tennis and play in a league. For more information please contact activities@incmadrid.com.

A group of diverse craftswomen. Any woman who enjoys making and selling crafts welcome. If interested, please contact madridhandcrafters@yahoo.es.

Having been seen by more than 17 million spectators the musical written by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse with music by John Kander, is full of famous songs such as 'All That Jazz', 'When You're Good To Mam' and 'Cell Block Tango'. It is the story of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly; two ambitious women who have been sent to prison because they have committed a crime of passion. At Teatro Coliseum, C/ Gran Vía 78. Shows on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 20:30, Friday and Saturday 18:00 and 22:00 and Sunday 19:00. Tickets available from the theatre box office or www.entradas.com and www.servicaixa.com priced €19.90 to €99.90.

The crazy musical comedy is inspired by the surrealist film Monty Python and the Holy Grail. It first performed in Broadway in March 2005 after being adapted by Eric Idle. The plot takes us back to the middle ages, to the Court of King Arthur, where the king and his loyal knights get down to a divine mission; searching for the Holy Grail. The Spanish version has been directed by Tricicle, produced by Filmax Stage and its choreography has been created by Francesc Abós. At Teatro Lope de Vega, C/ Gran Vía 57. Performances Tuesday to Thursday 20:30, Friday 22:00, Saturday 18:00 and 22:00 and Sunday 10:00. Tickets available from the theatre box office or from www.topticketline.es and www.servicaixa.es priced €15-€59.90.

The tenth edition of the festival for experimental international productions. It will feature over 80 shows of theatre, dance, music, circus and performing arts from all around the world. Details of performances can be found on the website. Venues and admission prices vary.

The XIV International Festival of Performing Arts for Children and Young People. This edition will feature 36 different companies from around the world that will perform a range of shows including circus, dance performances, puppet shows, storytelling, theatre and music performances across 60 different venues across the city. At various venues. Prices and times vary. Please check website for further information.

The Madrid-based magician presents his show full of illusions, live music, aerial stunts, disappearing acts and levitations. At Teatro Nuevo Apolo, Pza. Tirso de Molina 1. Tickets available from www.entradas.com priced from €24. Performances at 20:30. Extra shows at 17:30 on the 13th and 14th February and at 12:00 on the 7th and 14th February.

The club organises walking tour for members around the city of Madrid. Leave from Plaza Santa Ana at 11:00 and 20:00 (times vary depending on the season). Reservations required. Tel: 609 143 203.

Guided tour exploring the history encased within the streets of Hapsburg Madrid. Follow the footprints left by successive monarchs and enjoy the charm of the streets, plazas and hidden corners of the area. Tuesdays at 16:00 and Saturdays at 22:00 from Madrid Tourism Centre (Plaza Mayor 27). Adults €3.30. Under 25s, students, retired and unemployed people €2.70.

Guided tour around the old areas of Madrid. Adults €6.45. Under 25s, students, retired and unemployed people €5.05. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday at 10:00 and Saturday at 12:00. From Plaza Mayor, 27 (Madrid Tourism Centre). Adults €3.30. Under 25s, students, retired and unemployed people €2.70.

The chapel of San Antonio de la Florida contains the great picture cycle painted by Francisco de Goya in the late 18th century. It was declared a national monument in 1905 and has become a museum dedicated to Goya since a second chapel for worship was built next door. The artist's remains are laid to rest here. At Gta. San Antonio de la Florida 5 (Galería Espacio Kubiko). Open Tuesday to Friday 09:30-20:00, Saturday and Sunday 10:00-14:00. Free admission.

Designed over 250 years ago, the botanical gardens in Madrid are home to thousands of plant species covering some 20 acres. Take a stroll round or investigate the plant world with fascinating plants such as the 'living rock cacti' and the bonzai collection donated by former president Felipe Gonzalez. At Jardín Botánico, Plaza de Murillo, 2. Tel: 914 203 017. Open 10:00-18:00 January, February, November and December. 10:00-19:00 March and October.April and September 10:00-20:00. May, June, July and August 10:00-21:00. Entrance €2.

The Royal Palace was home to Spanish Kings Carlos III all the way through to Alfonso XIII. It is no longer the current royal family's home although it is still their official residence. Visitors can walk round the palace and explore the Royal Pharmacy, gallery and the Royal Armoury - a valuable collection of weapons and armour worn by the Kings of Spain and other members of the Royal Family since the 13th century. Every Wednesday except during July, August and September is the changing of the guard at the main gate. The Solemn Changing takes place at midday on the first Wednesday of the month excluding July, August and September. At the Royal Palace, Bailén s/n. Open Monday to Saturday 09:00-18:00 and Sunday 09:00-15:00 April to September and 09:30-17:00 Monday to Saturday and Sunday 09:00-14:00 during October to March. Entrance €8. €10 for a guided tour.

Hidden in the Cuartel de la Montaña park is the Temple of Debod; a monument that is over two thousand years old. It was brought to the capital from Egypt and carefully reconstructed stone by stone after its safety was threatened by the construction of the Aswan High Dam and the subsequent creation of Lake Nasser. It is known amongst Madrilleñians to be a great place to come and watch the sunset. At Parque del Cuartel de la Montaña. Open Tuesday to Friday from April 1 to September 30 10:00-14:00 and 18:00-20:00 and from October 1 to March 31 09:45-13:45 and 16:15-18:15. Saturdays and Sundays: 10:00-14:00. Free admission.

Known as the Paseo del Arte, the walk is about 2 kilometres long and is devoted entirely to culture. Although unguided and completely your own choice, the recognised route starts at Círculo de Bellas Artes, Alcalá 42 before moving to the Instituto Cervantes, at Alcalá 49. You then progress to the Casa de América at Plaza de Cibeles 2 before travelling to one of the best museums in the world; Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza at Paseo del Prado 8. After that comes the Museo del Prado at Paseo del Prado s/n and CaixaForum at Paseo del Prado 36. The Royal Botanical Gardens are the next stop located at Plaza de Murillo 2, before moving on to the Museo Reina Sofía at Santa Isabel 52, the Arola Madrid at Santa Isabel 52, La Casa Encendida at Ronda de Valencia 2, the Teatro Circo Price at Ronda de Atocha 35 and finally La Fábrica located at Alameda 9.

Producing hand-woven tapestries, carpets and reposteros (ornamental cloths hung from windows or balconies) since its opening in 1721, the tapestry factory is now officially a foundation. It was opened by King Philip V to supply to Royal court with luxury carpets and tapestries as factories had done in his native France. Produce from the factory is still made the same way today as it was three centuries ago and visitors have a chance to see the process at the factory museum. At Real Fábrica de Tapices, Fuenterrabía 2. Open 10:00-14:00 Monday to Friday. Entrance €3.50.

A monument to the dead in the Spanish Civil War 1936-1939. Commissioned by the victorious General Franco, the magnificent monument is not without its controversy. Franco himself is buried there and although it is said to have been built to remember, only two names are commemorated. The controversy is heightened by the fact political prisoners were used to construct it. The memorial consists of the world's tallest memorial cross and one of the world's biggest Catholic basilicas. At Carretere de Guadarrama / El Escorial. Open Tuesday to Sunday 10:00-17:00 in the winter and 10:00-18:00 in the summer.

With a dome larger than St Paul's Cathedral in London, the church is architecturally outstanding. Inside there is artwork by artists such as Maella, Francisco Bayeu, Goya and González Velázquez. The grounds on which the church stands was previously a Franciscan convent that is said to have been founded by St Francis of Assisi himself. At Plaza de San Francisco, s/n. Open Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00 to 13:00 and 16:00 to 18:30.

Hop on and hop off bus tours with two routes to chose from; Modern Madrid and Historical Madrid. Tickets available from travel agencies, hotels, Madrid Vision buses and on-line priced from €7.50 for children, €17.00 for adults and €8.50 for senior citizens. Group tickets available. Tel: 917 791 888.

The Teleferico is an original and eco-friendly cable car that connects the city centre with the Casa de Campo. At Paseo del Pintor Rosales. Times and dates of operation vary. Consult website for running times. Priced €2.70-€5.10. Tel: 915 417 450.

Built on the site of the old church that was demolished in 1870, Madrid's new cathedral was completed in 1993 after 110 years of work. At Calle de Bailén 8.

In 1772 when a document was created that laid the foundations for the new gallery that collected everything related to the sea, it signalled the beginning of what is now known as the Naval Museum. The exhibitions contained within the museum are varied and valuable with pieces dating back to the 15th century. At Museo Naval, P. del Prado 5. Open Tuesday to Sunday 10:30-14:00. Free admission.

Madrid’s most famous square and named after the city gate adorned by an image of the sun that once stood there, Puerta del Sol, also marks Kilometre Zero, the very centre of Spain. The square also contains the sculpture El Oso y El Madroño (The Bear and the Hackberry Tree) by Antonio Navarro Santa Fe which is the official symbol of the City of Madrid.

Gran Via is one of Madrid's largest and most important roads. Along both side are old buildings that have been maintained beautifully comprising offices, housing and shops. It is one of Madrid's primary shopping areas as well as being the Broadway of the city. At the Plaza Espana end, the city's large theatres line the streets playing host to productions such as The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast and Mama Mia.

The fountain was sculpted from white marble by Juan Pascual de Mena for King Carlos III and portrays the god of the seas in a shell-shaped chariot pulled by seahorses. Fuente de Neptuno was commissioned based on drawings made by Ventura Rodríguez in around 1782. Originally situated in the Prado del Apolo, the statue was moved to the centre of the Plaza de Cánovas del Castillo in 1898, where it still remains today. At Plaza Cánovas del Castillo, s/n.

In 1759 King Carlos III entered Madrid through the Puerta de Alcalá. Originally a 16th century baroque gate, the King decided that it was too small a gate to mark such a grand occasion. He commissioned Italian architect Sabatini to design and build a gate to be its replacement. The 'new' gate took 9 years to complete a is constructed out of granite and limestone. It consists of three archways and two rectangular passages and is adorned with statutes and sculptures. It now stands in the Plaza de la Independencia near the Retiro Park and the designer shops of Barrio de Salamanca. Classified as a national monument and is one of Spain's widely recognised tourist spectacles.

Named after the Greek goddess of the Earth, agriculture and fertility, the statue in the fountain depicts Cibele in a chariot pulled by two lions. The statue is the work of several artists, Ventura Rodriguez, Miguel Ximenez, Francisco Gutierrez and Roberto Michel. Fuente de Cibeles originally stood to one side of the square in 1781 and eventually ended up at its current location in 1895. At Plaza Cibeles, s/n.

The city walls are one of the rare remnants of Madrid under Muslim rule. Dating from the 9th century, the walls were built during the reign of Emir Muhammad I of Córdoba. The walls were built as part of defences for a fortress called Mayrit, an Arabic word meaning source of life. It is from this word that the name of the city is said to derive. Only a small piece of the wall remains after being discovered with a 12th century Christian wall and other Moorish remains in 1953. At Cuesta de la Vega, s/n.

Originally built in 1537 as a palace for the Cardinal Cisneros by his nephew Benito Jiménez de Cisneros, Casa de Cisneros is one of only a few examples of gothic architecture left in Madrid. The building façade is made of granite, and its interior houses town hall departments as well as all types of Spanish art including 15th century tapestries, engravings and blueprints. At Plaza de la Villa, 4.

The tower and its adjoining house date back to the early 15th century making it one of the tallest buildings in the city at the time. It is one of the oldest buildings in the Plaza de la Villa and its entrance still bears the original owner’s coat of arms. This relic remains as one of the few remaining gothic symbols in the city. Today it is owned and used by departments of Madrid’s Town Hall. At Plaza de la Villa, s/n.

Madrid's town hall was designed by Juan Gómez de Mora in 1640. Other famous architects such as José de Villarreal, Teodoro Ardemans, Juan de Villanueva and Luis Bellido added to the exterior and interior of the palace until it was finally finished in 1696. It served as both a town hall and a prison. At Plaza de la Villa, 5. A guided tour is provided on Mondays at 17:00 in Spanish and English. Free admission.

Created by Don Benigno de la Vega-Inclán y Flaquer, the second Marquis of Vega Inclán (1858-1942), the museum was donated to the state 1921. Capturing the essence of Madrid's 19th century middle-class life, it is located in a characteristic 18th century palace and houses romantic pieces from artists such as Goya, Federico de Madrazo, and Leonardo Alenza. At C/ San Mateo, 13. Open Tuesday to Saturday 09:30-20:30 from May to October and 09:30-18:30 November to April. Open Sundays 10:00-15:00. General admission €3.

Often referred to as the Shakespeare of Spanish Literature, Félix Lope de Vega y Carpio (1562-1635) was Spain's greatest playwright. He completed nearly 2000 plays during his life and was banished from Madrid for 8 years for writing insulting poems about a former girlfriend. His former home is now a museum dedicated to both him and 17th century life in Madrid. At C/ Cervantes, 11. Open Thursday to Friday 09:30-13:30 and Saturday 10:00-13:30.

The oldest bridge in the Spanish capital. Built in the 16th century, its nine ancient arches spread across the Manzanares river. At the end of C/ de Segovia.

Located on the southern end of Puerta del Sol and being the oldest building in the square, the palace was built in 1766. It was formerly the city's post office but now currently serves as the seat of the regional government. In front of the building is 'Kilometre 0'; the very centre of Spain. The traditional eating of the grapes takes place on New Year's Eve outside the palace every year. At Plaza de la Puerta del Sol.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid offers the chance to meet English-speaking newcomers and long-term residents. The coffee morning takes place once a month in the home of a member that lives in your locality. Please check website for the date of the event in your area. Contact area5@incmadrid.com.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid offers the chance to meet English-speaking newcomers and long-term residents. The coffee morning takes place once a month in the home of a member that lives in your locality. Please check website for the date of the event in your area. Contact area2@incmadrid.com.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid offers the chance to meet English-speaking newcomers and long-term residents. The coffee morning takes place once a month in the home of a member that lives in your locality. Please check website for the date of the event in your area. Contact area4@incmadrid.com.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid offers the chance to meet English-speaking newcomers and long-term residents. The coffee morning takes place once a month in the home of a member that lives in your locality. Please check website for the date of the event in your area. Contact area2@incmadrid.com.

One of Europe's oldest water parks featuring thrilling water slides and fun for the children. At San Fernando de Henares, Carretera Nacional II, km 15,500. Open June 12:30-19:00 and July and August 12:30-20:00. Admission: adults €18.95, children €13.95.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid 'Area 1' (La Moreleja, Ciudalcampo, Fuente del Fresno, Santo Domingo areas) Book Club meets once a month to discuss "good reads" and the "pick of the month" over coffee and cake. If interested, please contact area1@incmadrid.com for more info. INC members from all areas welcome.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid offers the chance to meet English-speaking newcomers and long-term residents. The coffee morning takes place once a month in the home of a member that lives in your locality. Please check website for the date of the event in your area. Contact area1@incmadrid.com.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid 'Area 1' (La Moreleja, Ciudalcampo, Fuente del Fresno, Santo Domingo areas) welcomes anyone who would like to join them for their 5K walk. The walk takes about an hour and then the group has coffee. If interested, please contact our Area 1 contact area1@incmadrid.com.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid offers the chance to meet English-speaking newcomers and long-term residents. The coffee morning takes place once a month in the home of a member that lives in your locality. Please check website for the date of the event in your area. Contact area4@incmadrid.com.

The International Newcomers Club of Madrid offers the chance to meet English-speaking newcomers and long-term residents. The coffee morning takes place once a month in the home of a member that lives in your locality. Please check website for the date of the event in your area. Contact area2@incmadrid.com.

One of Europe's oldest water parks featuring thrilling water slides and fun for the children. At Villanueva de la Cañada, Avenida Mirasierra, s/n. Open June and September 12:00-19:00 and July and August 12:00-20:00. Admission: adults €21.95, children €16.95.