What's On: Tuesday 1 December 2009

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.

This French artist was a contemporary of pioneers such as Manet and Degas. Despite similarities, his name has not gone down in history with theirs. The Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza has gathered together a selection of more than 70 of his pieces from various museums and private collections worldwide. Located at Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, P. del Prado 8. Open Tuesday to Sunday 10:00-19:00. Tickets €5 and €3.50 concessions.

During his time as President of Spain, Felipe Gonzalez began collecting bonsai trees as a hobby. After his 14-year tenure he had amassed more than a hundred, managing to put together the best collection of bonsais in Spain. Located at Real Jardín Botánico, Pza. Murillo 2. Open every day from 10:00-19:00. €2 (students €1). Tel: 914 203 017.

Until the end of 2009, The National Natural Science Museum are displaying their collection of valuable meteorites. Made up of over 300 examples of approximately 4.5 billion years of age, the museum also provides historical documentation about their fall to earth. 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 in August) and Sunday / Bank Holidays 10:00-14:00. Tickets cost €3. Tel: 915 646 169.

An exhibition comprising European paintings and sculptures from the nineteenth century which represent figures and scenes from both classical mythology as well as Judeo-Christian tradition. Located Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, P. del Prado 8. Open Tuesday to Sunday 10:00-19:00 Admission €5, concesssions €3.50. Tel: 913 690 151.

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.

The nineteenth century factory Real Fábrica transformed the urban area around it as well as the city's image. The exhibition contains over 170 pieces that are representative of 18th and 19th century Madrid some of which were made in the Real Fábrica. On display are pieces such as a magnificent china tureen, French and German glass, tobacco pouches and a writing desk. At Centro Cultural Conde Duque, C/ Conde Duque 11. open Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 - 14:00 and 18:00 - 21:00 and open Sunday 10:30 - 14:00. Tel: 915 885 834.

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.

A tribute to mark the bicentenary of the birth and 150 year anniversary of the work of British scientist Charles Darwin. His theory of evolution concluded that every species had a common point of origin and natural selection allowed the strongest genes to survive. The exhibition illustrates the life of the naturalist and illustrates his theory with a number of exhibits and specimens from plants to animals. At Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, C/ José Gutiérrez Abascal 2. Open Tuesday to Friday 10:00-18:00, Saturday 10:00-20:00 (except July and August 10:00-15:00) and Sunday 10:00-14:30. General admission €5 reduced admission €3. Tel: 914 111 328 / 915 646 169.

The career of the illustrator and fashion designer is represented by this exhibition dedicated to him. His personal style and his ability to highlight glamour and the female character through colourful, lively designs, are his trademark. On display will be more than fifty of his works including very rare designs. 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. Entrance €3 for adults, €1.50 for children. Free admission Saturday after 14:30.

The relationship between eroticism and death has been a obsession for philosophers, psychologists and artists since the Romantic period. The two part exhibition takes us on a journey through the history of eroticism in Western art. Through the Baroque period and the work by Rubens and Bernini to the Surrealist movement of the 20th century via 19th century artists as Canova, Ingres, Delacroix, Millais, Moreau and Rodin. Part one entitled 'From Temptation to Sacrifice' can be seen at Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, P. del Prado 8. Open Tuesday - Sunday 10;00-19:00. General admission €13. Temporary exhibition admission €8.

The relationship between eroticism and death has been a obsession for philosophers, psychologists and artists since the Romantic period. The two part exhibition takes us on a journey through the history of eroticism in Western art. Through the Baroque period and the work by Rubens and Bernini to the Surrealist movement of the 20th century via 19th century artists as Canova, Ingres, Delacroix, Millais, Moreau and Rodin. Part two entitled 'The Eternal Sleep' can be seen at Fundación Caja Madrid, Pza. San Martín 1. Open Tuesday - Sunday 10;00-20:00. Free admission.

One of the most original Spanish painters of the 17th century, Bautista Maíno was one of the most admired artists in Felipe IV's court. Influenced by various 17th century Italian styles and artists such as Caravaggio, Carracci, Guido Reni and Gentileschi, 30 of the artist's paintings will form this exhibition. Born in Castilla La Mancha, religion is the main focal point of the artist's work with 'Adoration of the Magi' and 'Adoration of the Shepherds' particularly prominent pieces. At Museo Nacional del Prado, P. del Prado s/n. Open Tuesday to Sunday 09:00-20:00. General admission €8. Concessions €4. Free admission 18:00-20:00 and Sunday 17:00-20:00.

Containing more than one hundred pieces of Ife art made from terracotta, bronze, stone and glass, the exhibition is one loan from the Nigerian Government's National Commission for Museums and Monuments. Ife is the ancient city state and native land of the Yoruba culture. It was the capital of the area between the 12th and 15th centuries and became the capital of Benin during the 15th century. Among the pieces on display in the exhibition are three sculptures from the 14th century that are made from pure copper, cast through a technique that uses wax. This was an advanced, sophisticated practice thought impossible at the time in Europe. At Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando, C/ Alcalá 13. Open Tuesday to Sunday 09:00-17:00 and Sunday 09:00-14:30. General admission €3.

The Austrian-American photographer emigrated to New York in 1938 with her husband. She had grown up in Vienna after living through the First World War as a teenager. After moving to the USA she supported herself by taking photographs and eventually became a member of the New York 'Photo League'. She later taught photography at the New School for Social Research. In this exhibition we see some of her best work, showing New York and its inhabitants during the 40s and 50s. At Fundación Cultural Mapfre. (Sala Azca), Avda. General Perón 40. Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00-21:00, Sunday 12:00-20:00 and Monday from 14:00-21:00.

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 exhibition remembers the Russians that fought in the Spanish civil war between 1936-1939. A total of 2105 'Russians' (although many were from other independent countries in the USSR) fought on the side of the Republicans as soldiers, interpreters, doctors, engineers and specialists. At Centro Cultural Conde Duque, C/ Conde Duque 11. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10:00-14:00 and 18:00-21:00, Sunday 10:30-14:00. Tel: 915 885 834.

Spain's first Henri Fantin-Latour retrospective exhibition. A close friend of Manet and Whistler, the artist is closely linked to the styles of Romanticism and Realism. The exhibition will contain pieces from the permanent collections of the Museum of Orsay, the Petit Palais, Tate Gallery, the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Uffizi gallery. At Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, P. del Prado 8. Open Tuesday to Sunday 10:00-19:00. Entrance €8. Concessions €5. Free admission for under 12s accompanied by an adult.

On loan from Musée d'Orsay in Paris the exhibition aims to recover the feeling of fascination and attraction that Italy has held for artists over the centuries. Comprising of painting, sculpture and photography, it is with the notion of The Grand Tour that the pieces attempt to recreate the fascination that aristocrats and intellectuals had with Italy. At Fundación Cultural Mapfre. Sala Recoletos, P. de Recoletos 23. Open Monday 14:00-20:00, Tuesday to Saturday 10:00-20:00, Sunday 12:00-20:00. Tel: 915 816 100.

An exhibition of European portraits between the 16th and 20th centuries containing works by Titian, Velázquez and Goya, as well as by Van Dyck, Toulouse-Lautrec, Modigliani and Picasso. At Fundación Cultural Mapfre (Sala Recoletos), P. de Recoletos 23. Open Monday 14:00-20:00, Tuesday to Saturday 10:00-20:00, Sunday 12:00-20:00.

To commemorate the centenary of the Russian Ballet's début in Paris and inspired by dance of ballerina Vaslaw Nijinsky, the exhibition displays a series of drawings related to pieces by five artists: Sonia Delaunay-Terk, Frantisek Kupka, Vladimir Baranov-Rossiné, Léopold Survage and Alexandra Exter. The aim is to highlight the importance of the art of dance. At Fundación Cultural Mapfre (Sala Recoletos), P. de Recoletos 23. Open Monday 14:00-20:00, Tuesday to Saturday 10:00-20:00, Sunday 12:00-20:00.

The first exhibition devoted to Italian architecture and in particular Palladio, in Spain. It includes more than 80 items on loan from museums and private collections throughout Europe and commemorates the 500th anniversary of the architect's birth. Palladio's work includes San Giorgio Maggiore church in Venice, and Palazzo Chiericiati, Olympic Theatre and the loggias of Palazzo de la Raggione in Vicenza. At CaixaForum Madrid, P. del Prado 36. Open Monday to Sunday 10:00-20:00. Free admission.

A reflection of the cruel world in which we live by the Swiss artist Thomas Hirschhorn. The exhibition contains a series of sculptures, installations and display cases with mannequins all as a political and social critique. His work contains great references to fashion, politics, art and philosophy while his pieces are constructed from everyday materials such as adhesive tape, cardboard and plastic sheets. At La Casa Encendida, Rda. de Valencia 2. Open 10:00-22:00. Free admission.

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.

Following the renovation of its exhibition hall, the Fundación Juan March welcomes almost 70 pieces of work on paper by one of the best landscape painters in German romanticism. The exhibition looks at the use and function of pre-drawings and sketches in artwork created through various techniques such as pencil, gouache and watercolour. At Fundación Juan March, C/ Castelló 77. Open Monday to Saturday 11:00-20:00 and Sunday 10:00-14:00.

A series of works by the great French artist and his mother. Yves Klein was the creator of many concepts that are still in force nowadays. His legacy is not as huge as it would have been had he not have died at a young age, but his artistic ideas and his ideas concerning town planning still remain highly regarded. The exhibition will also contain work by his mother Marie Raymond and his father Fred Klein. At Círculo de Bellas Artes, C/ Alcalá 42. Open Tuesday to Saturday 11:00-14:00 and 17:00-21:00 Sunday 11:00-14:00.

A review of this revolutionary pioneer's work courtesy of the Nicéphore Niépce Museum in France. The exhibition comprises a selection of 125 pictures taken between 1920 and 1940 that demonstrate the artist's intense experimentation and his defence of new areas in photography. At Fundación Canal, C/ Mateo Inurria 2. Open 11:00-20:00 and Wednesday 11:00-15:00. Free admission.

'Dusk & Dawn' are two projects that were created independently by the artist Erwin Olaf. They can been seen together now in the Dutch artist's 4th solo exhibition at the Galería Espacio Mínimo. The 'Dusk' series is based on his perceptions of Afro-American culture and the struggle in the USA over the last century. In 'Dawn' the artist uses the same principles in study of 'Dusk' but uses a white, Caucasian Russian dacha at the start of the last century as the subject. At Galería Espacio Mínimo, C/ Doctor Fourquet 17. Open Tuesday to Friday 11:00-14:00 and 15:30-19:30 and Saturday 10:00-18:00.

A look to the career of this illustrator and fashion designer who has worked for important firms including Roberto Verino, Victorio & Lucchino, Loewe, The Extreme Collection, Lemoniez, Tejidos Rafael Matías, Rio Dayne and Custo Barcelona. His unique technique is displayed in more than fifty works supported by photographic material. At Museo del Traje, Avda. Juan de Herrera 2. Open Tuesday to Saturday 09:30-19:00 and Sunday 10:00-15:00. Entrance €3. Free on a Saturday after 14:30.

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.

The launch of Sputnik in 1954 as mankind's first artificial satellite in space signalled the beginning of the Space Race between the USSR and the USA. The exhibition is homage to Serguei P. Korolev and the brilliant team of Soviet engineers who have contributed in no small way to our greater understanding of the cosmos. 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 concessions.

With the Ministry of Culture, the Museo Sorolla will host the exhibition entitled 'Diálogos: Sorolla & Velázquez'. Divided into three categories, realism, landscape and portraits, the exhibition analyses the relationships between the painter from Valencia and the painter from Seville. At Museo Sorolla, P. del General Martínez Campos 37. Open Tuesday to Saturday 09:30 - 20:00. Open Sunday 10:00-15:00. General admission €3. Free admission for under 18s and over 65s.

The photographs taken by the German film director and his wife are the subject of this exhibition. It is a selection of photographs taken by this couple over the last 15 years during private journeys and also during filming breaks. At Círculo de Bellas Artes, C/ Alcalá 42. Open Tuesday to Saturday 11:00-14:00 and 17:00-21:00 and Sunday 11:00-14:00. Free admission.

Traditionally known as the capital for Spanish republican exiles. Thousands of exiled Spaniards settled in southern France after the Republic was overthrown in 1939 and this colony has left its mark on the city through cultural and artistic activities. The exhibition is focussed on remembering the lives and struggles of those men and women who contributed to enriching the French city. At Círculo de Bellas Artes, C/ Alcalá 42. Open Tuesday to Saturday 11:00-14:00 and 17:00-21:00 and open Sundays 11:00-14:00. Free admission.

This collection comes from the Museo de Arte Carrillo Gil in Mexico and includes all the works by the Israeli artist until 2005. The work of Guy Ben Ner is inspired by film scripts, folk tales and novels and his subjects are often himself and his family. At Centro de Arte Dos de Mayo, Avda. de la Constitución 25. Open Tuesday to Sunday 11:00-21:00. Free admission.

The exhibition offers a view of the monochrome grisaille technique of painting and layering. It will compare The Annunciation Diptych by Jan Van Eyck with other pieces of late Mediaeval grisaille, depicted in drawing and paintings, as well as ivories, illuminations, textiles, and glass and metal objects. At Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, P. del Prado 8. Open Tuesday to Sunday 10:00-19:00. General admission €8. Admission to temporary exhibitions €8. Admission to both temporary and permanent exhibitions €13. Free admission for under 12s accompanied by an adult.

Matadero Madrid will host the Helsinki Madrid FinDesign, the main exhibition during the Month of Finnish Design. The exhibition presents a high-quality collection and it consists of a series of works from different areas of Finnish design. At Matadero Madrid, P. de la Chopera 14. Open Tuesday to Friday 16:00-22:00 and Saturday and Sunday 11:00-22:00. Free admission.

An exhibition in a magical environment that contains the most fascinating items from the circus world. It contains exhibits that demonstrate unusual qualities inspired by circus acts. At Círculo de Bellas Artes, C/ Alcalá 42. Open Tuesday to Saturday 11:00-14:00 and 17:00-21:00. Free admission.

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.

A complete journey though bronze sculpture from the Spanish royal collections. The pieces on display come from Patrimonio Nacional, Museo del Prado, Museo Arqueológico Nacional, Real Casa de la Moneda de Madrid, Detroit Institute of Arts, Bibliothèque Nationale de France, Bibliothèque Royale de Belgique and the Castello Sforzesco in Milan. At Palacio Real, C/ Bailén s/n. Open Monday to Saturday 10:00-13:30 and 15:00-17:00, Sunday 10:00-14:00. Admission to Royal Palace €10. Painting gallery €2.

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.

The German film maker's photography combines reality and fiction playing with the spectator's perception or what is real. She began her journey into the art world aged 9 when she took photographs from a boat on the canals in Amsterdam. At Instituto Alemán de Cultura-Goethe Institut, C/ Zurbarán 21. Open Monday to Friday 10:00-21:00 and Saturday 09:00-14:00. 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.

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.

Dating back to 1860, the Christmas market comprises many stalls that sell all sorts of goods, from tinsel and Christmas trees to wonderful nativity scenes. The stalls are placed along the four sides of the Plaza to make a square in a square. At Plaza Mayor. Open all day.

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.

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.

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 object 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.

Written at the beginning of the last century by Lyman Frank Baum, The Wizard of Oz has become one of the best loved stories and shows in the world. At Teatro Príncipe Gran Vía, C/ Tres Cruces 8. Tickets available from the box office or from www.entradas.com priced €12-€16. Performances at 16:30 Tuesday to Sunday.

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 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. 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.

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.

Analysis of the role of the car culture and artistic creation in recent decades, the exhibition comprises more than 116 pieces by 60 artists from Spain and abroad. The car has been symbolic of consumerism in the 20th century and many artists have had their creative spark ignited by the teasing notion of this symbolism. The exhibition addresses the different attitudes, transformations and consequences of car culture. At Centro de Arte Dos de Mayo, Avda. de la Constitución 25. Open Tuesday to Sunday 11:00 - 21:00.

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 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.

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.