Miguel de Cervantes' Madrid Walking Tour (Self Guided), Madrid

Plaza de las Cortes is a prominent square surrounded by neoclassical buildings that showcase some of Madrid's finest architecture. Every corner reveals a structure with intricate details to appreciate. On the northern side stands the Parliament Palace ("Palacio de las Cortes"), a 19th-century building where the lower house of the Spanish parliament convenes. Its entrance is guarded by two bronze lions, crafted from a cannon melted down during the African War of 1859–60. Another notable landmark is the Westin Palace, which opened in 1912 as the largest and most modern hotel in Europe, with over 400 rooms, telephones, and en suite toilets.

At the center of the triangular-shaped square stands a grand statue honoring the renowned Spanish writer, Miguel de Cervantes. Erected in 1835, it was the first secular statue in Madrid that wasn't dedicated to royalty at the time. In 2009, a time capsule was discovered within its pedestal, containing a well-preserved 1819 printing of "Don Quixote" and other publications and artifacts. These items are now held at the Regional Archaeological Museum ("Museo Arqueológico Regional") in Alcalá de Henares, near Cervantes' birthplace in 1547.

Although many details of Cervantes' early life are debated, it is known that he and his family resided in Cordoba for several years before returning to Madrid. He worked for a cardinal in Rome before joining the Spanish military, where he was severely wounded in the Battle of Lepanto in 1571. Despite his injuries, he survived and received recognition for his bravery. In 1575, Cervantes and his brother Rodrigo were captured by the Ottomans while aboard the galley Sol. They were held captive in Algiers, with only Rodrigo being released after their family paid a ransom. Cervantes remained in captivity until his freedom was finally secured in 1580.

Following his release, Cervantes held various government positions, including an intelligence agent in Africa and a tax collector in Seville. It was during this period that he completed some of his most famous works, including "La Galatea" in 1585. He later returned to Madrid, where he spent the rest of his life. In 1605, he published the first volume of "Don Quixote", followed by the second volume ten years later, cementing his status as one of the most renowned figures in Spanish literature.

Miguel de Cervantes resided at what is now known as No. 2 Cervantes Street, although the street had a different name during his time—Francos Street. Interestingly, another esteemed Spanish writer, Lope de Vega, had also lived there. Although the house is marked with plaques and a relief of Cervantes, it is not open for public tours.

In 1833, the owner of the writer's house planned to demolish it and rebuild. An article about the edifice was published in a literary newspaper, catching the attention of King Fernando VII. The king sought to acquire the property for the state and restore the structure, but the owner declined and proceeded with the demolition. The new building that stands there today pays tribute to the author, and the street was renamed to commemorate Cervantes' residency.

The house is situated in Madrid's Literary Quarter, named in honor of the talented artists who have graced its charming streets throughout history. Huertas Street, the main thoroughfare of the Literary Quarter, features quotes from renowned Spanish writers inscribed on the sidewalks. On Cervantes Street, you will also find a house and museum dedicated to Lope de Vega.

Cervantes passed away in this house in 1616 and was laid to rest at the nearby Convent of the Trinitarians.

Miguel de Cervantes had a heartfelt desire to be laid to rest within the confines of Madrid's expansive Convent of the Barefoot Trinitarians, where a small group of cloistered nuns continue to reside to this day, almost four centuries later. What many are unaware of is that Cervantes owes the existence of his literary works to the Trinitarian nuns of his time, as he believed they saved his life. This belief stemmed from his own courageous escapades before he penned his two-volume masterpiece, "Don Quixote de La Mancha".

In his early twenties, Cervantes left Spain and sought refuge in Rome after engaging in a duel that resulted in him injuring a nobleman. By 1570, he had returned to his homeland and joined the Spanish navy, embarking on a war to defend the Pope. During this conflict, he sustained gunshot wounds to his ribs and shoulder, the latter of which left his left arm paralyzed. To compound matters, he was subsequently captured by Algerian pirates and endured five harrowing years as their slave.

While Cervantes languished in captivity in Africa, his family reached out to the Trinitarian nuns for assistance. Through their efforts, a ransom was raised and delivered to the pirates, securing Cervantes' freedom. The aspiring author returned to Spain, profoundly grateful, and offered his prayers at the 17th-century convent of the Trinitarians.

Established in 1827, Casa Alberto has maintained its presence in the same location for nearly two centuries. Specializing in authentic Madrilenian cuisine, this restaurant has attracted notable figures in the city since its inception. Renowned for its caracoles (snails), gambas (prawns), and exquisite croquetas, it offers a delightful culinary experience that pairs perfectly with a glass of house vermouth.

The building itself stands on the foundations of a 16th-century structure that once served as the residence of the esteemed writer Miguel de Cervantes. To commemorate this historical connection, a plaque adorns the restaurant's wall, as it is believed that Cervantes penned his works "Don Quixote" and "Los Trabajos de Persiles y Sigismunda" within these walls.

During the mid-1800s, cafes and theaters gained popularity throughout the city, and Casa Alberto became a favored dining destination for those visiting the nearby Prado National Museum, which opened its doors in 1819. In 1924, the restaurant underwent a renovation, acquiring its present elegant decor and swiftly establishing itself as a must-visit establishment for both locals and tourists. Over the years, theater actors, politicians, and the city's elite have all savored meals here.

The decor exudes a sense of timelessness, adorned with functional antiques. Notably, the tin bar showcases a distinctive sink that once cooled wine bottles and served as a washing area for glasses. Upstairs, visitors can explore a collection of Cervantes memorabilia, adding to the rich historical ambiance.

The Cervantine Society, dedicated to promoting the works of Cervantes, can be found at 87 Atocha Street. A plaque commemorates the location where Juan de la Cuesta's printing press once stood, publishing the first edition of "Don Quixote" in 1605.

Established in 1953 by esteemed Cervantes scholar Luis Astrana Marín, the society is committed to exploring and disseminating the life and literary contributions of the 17th-century author. They organize immersive routes through the landscapes featured in "Don Quixote" and offer educational courses on various aspects related to Cervantes. Within this location, you will also discover the Cervantes Theatre, a venue offering an array of captivating performances.

In 2008, the Society embarked on a project to recreate the original printing press from the Golden Age. The printing press area has been carefully designed to fully immerse visitors in the artistry and craftsmanship of the skilled artisans who once labored here. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into the intricate printing techniques of that era and to explore the distinctive features of the first edition of "Don Quixote" through an engaging guided tour that caters to visitors of all ages.

Beyond immortalizing Cervantes' literary masterpiece, this particular printing press also played a pivotal role in producing more than a dozen works by renowned Spanish authors such as Lope de Vega, Tirso de Molina, and Calderón de la Barca.