Victoria made the Spanish capital her home between 2003 and 2007, when husband David played for football team Real Madrid.

Madrid is Europe's highest city, towering over all others at 2,100 feet/640 meters

Madrid has been the Spanish capital since 1562. Its location at the centre of the Iberian peninsular leads to warm dry summers and cool winters.

More than six million tourists visit Madrid each year, many are drawn to its spectacular museums and galleries, such as the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen.

Madrid comes alive every May for the Festival of San Isidro, in honor of the city's patron saint. The festival has been officially running since 1947 and 60 years of tradition make this a special time of year for Madrileños.

GIRL POWER! Adelina Patti was born into humble surroundings in Madrid in 1843 but went on to become one of the most famous 19th century opera singers.