When families plan vacations, they plan their lodging, meals, traveling and throw in some fun things like sightseeing, concerts, children's parks etc. Very seldom do they plan a trip to the local library. This is because they've never seen the Biblioteca Nacional, Madrid's large library as well as one of the city's main attractions. My family traveled from just to visit this library. If you think Spain offers a little reading for their townspeople, you've never been in the library. It is huge. The library, near the Plaza de Coln, is built in Neoclassical design and has three entrance archways. For the most unique and interesting view, walk in and look up to the ceilings. It's awesome.



As you enter the library, you'll get a good view of the wrought-iron gates and the upper gallery design. The Corinthian columns are elegantly carved with beautiful statues of San Isidoro and Alfonso on each side. The front of the Biblioteca Nacional, which was built in the 19th century, as images of Cervantes, de Leon as well as many other famous writers. You'll be glad you took this break from traveling as you browse through the many Spanish titles. Over five million books was the latest count of their inventory.

The Royal library of Phillip V, which was started in 1712, was the foundation for the Biblioteca National. Many of the books were purchased, but some were just taken in the style of that time. This library is considered the National Library of Spain with books on any subject from culture to history as well as thousands of manuscripts and newspaper collections. Anyone taking a tour of this historical site would have plenty to write home about.

If you have every had trouble finding certain literary works, check here, In addition to books, manuscripts and old newspapers, you will also find over 134,000 maps, two million photographs and much more. If the books don't interests everyone in the family, the structure and architecture that went into the building sure will. Lucky