# Madrid city

> capital and largest city of Spain

**Wikidata**: [Q116170766](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q116170766)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/madrid-city

## Summary
Madrid is the capital and largest city of Spain, serving as a major political, cultural, and economic hub. Founded in 1083, it has evolved from a medieval settlement into a modern metropolis with a population of over 3.3 million.

## Key Facts
- **Capital Status**: Madrid is the capital of Spain and the capital of the Community of Madrid.
- **Population**: As of 2024, the city has a population of 3,332,035 residents.
- **Geographical Coordinates**: Located at approximately 40.4165° N, 3.70256° W.
- **Historical Names**: Previously known as Maŷrīṭ, Majerit, and Metragirta.
- **Diocese History**:
  - Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Madrid (since 1991)
  - Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Madrid-Alcalá (1964–1991)
  - Roman Catholic Diocese of Madrid-Alcalá (1885–1964)
  - Previously under the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Toledo (before 1885)
- **INE Code**: 28079000101 (municipality capital code).
- **Continent**: Located in Europe.
- **Inception**: Founded in 1083.
- **Aliases**: Includes "Villa de Madrid," "Villa y Corte," and "ciudad de Madrid."
- **Awards**: Received the titles "Villa title" and "Villa y corte."
- **Geonames ID**: 3117735.
- **Classifications**: Municipality capital, big city, largest city in Spain, metropolis, tourist destination.

## FAQs
**What is the historical significance of Madrid?**
Madrid was founded in 1083 and has served as Spain’s capital since 1561 (with a brief interruption). It replaced Maŷrīṭ, reflecting its deep historical roots.

**What is the population of Madrid?**
As of 2024, Madrid has a registered population of 3,332,035, making it Spain’s largest city.

**What are the religious affiliations of Madrid?**
Madrid is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Madrid (since 1991), previously part of the Archdiocese of Madrid-Alcalá (1964–1991) and the Diocese of Madrid-Alcalá (1885–1964).

**Where is Madrid located?**
Madrid is situated in central Spain, within the Community of Madrid, at coordinates 40.4165° N, 3.70256° W.

**What titles or awards has Madrid received?**
Madrid holds the historical titles "Villa title" and "Villa y corte," reflecting its status as a royal and administrative center.

## Why It Matters
Madrid is the political and cultural heart of Spain, housing key institutions, historical landmarks, and a vibrant urban life. Its role as the national capital since the 16th century has shaped Spain’s governance, economy, and identity. As the largest city, it drives innovation, tourism, and global connectivity, making it a critical hub in Europe.

## Notable For
- Being the capital of Spain and the largest city in the country.
- Its historical evolution from Maŷrīṭ (1083) to a modern metropolis.
- Serving as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Madrid.
- Holding the titles "Villa y corte" and "Villa title."
- Its strategic location in Europe and its role as a major tourist destination.

## Body
### **History and Founding**
Madrid was founded in 1083, replacing the earlier settlement of Maŷrīṭ. It became Spain’s capital in 1561 under King Philip II, solidifying its role as the political center. The city has been known by various names, including Majerit and Metragirta, reflecting its multicultural past.

### **Geography and Location**
Madrid is located in central Spain, within the Community of Madrid. Its coordinates are approximately 40.4165° N, 3.70256° W. The city is a major urban center in Europe, with a geonames ID of 3117735.

### **Population and Demographics**
As of 2024, Madrid’s population is 3,332,035, based on resident registration data. It is the largest city in Spain and a key demographic hub.

### **Religious and Administrative Role**
Madrid is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Madrid (since 1991). Previously, it was part of the Archdiocese of Madrid-Alcalá (1964–1991) and the Diocese of Madrid-Alcalá (1885–1964). Before 1885, it fell under the Archdiocese of Toledo.

### **Governance and Titles**
The city holds the historical titles "Villa title" and "Villa y corte," emphasizing its royal and administrative significance. It is classified as a municipality capital, metropolis, and tourist destination.

### **Identifiers and Classifications**
- **INE Code**: 28079000101 (municipality capital).
- **Geonames ID**: 3117735.
- **GNS Unique Feature ID**: -390625.
- **Münzkabinett ID**: location/847.
- **Yale Lux ID**: group/c600e3be-d73a-45e0-a8b2-1aca9411ccc7.

### **Cultural and Economic Significance**
Madrid is a major tourist destination, known for its historical landmarks, museums, and vibrant culture. As Spain’s largest city, it plays a crucial role in the nation’s economy, politics, and global influence.

## References

1. Nomenclátor Geográfico de Municipios y Entidades de Población (20240402 edition)