Constitution Day is a very important day for every Spaniard, as this day commemorates one of the most important cornerstones of Spanish democracy, the development of Magna Carta and subsequently its approval by an overwhelming majority on December 6, 1978.
At that moment a new outlook was seen at the Spanish horizon, initiating a democratic setting and putting an end to Franco’s regime. Spain was now a part of Europe and the world again.
Because of the importance of this moment in time, we commemorate Constitution Day every 6th of December by celebrating a holiday, and together with the 8th of December (Feast of the Immaculate Conception), these two days have turned into one of the most important bridge holidays on the Spanish calendar.
Today, this article by ShMadrid will focus on some of the most interesting activities in the Spanish capital for this long weekend. Select one or two that you find most interesting and have fun!
Related article: What to Do in Madrid in December
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Ideas on how to spend Constitution Day in Madrid
Snow Zone Madrid
Madrid is a wonderful city and Constitution Day can be an excellent chance to get to know the city a little bit better. You can go ice skating or skiing, and the fun part is, there is a place in Madrid where you can do it all year round.
Regardless of whether you are an experienced skier or just a beginner, if you want to check out the ice or (artificial) snow, it doesn’t depend on the weather anymore.
If you don’t have a car or don’t want to go to all the way to the mountains, you can find ski slopes in Xanadú Shopping Centre (on the Extremadura motorway). Can you imagine being able to ski whenever you feel like it?
And if you would rather go ice skating, then Palacio de Hielo is your place to be.
Madrid Snow Zone is the only indoor snow centre in Spain, and it is actually one of the largest in the world. Located inside Xanadú Shopping Centre, it has 18,000 m2 of slopes, and its high-quality facilities are carefully being managed, in order for ski and snowboard enthusiasts to be able to enjoy it all year round.
Neapolitan nativity scene at the Royal Palace
Every year Madrid’s Royal Palace exhibits its Neapolitan nativity scene free of charge. This way both locals and tourists can enjoy this beautiful and realistic sight. The Prince’s Bethlehem is located in the Alabarderos Hall, in the district of Centro in the capital.
The Neapolitan Bethlehem scene at the Royal Palace started a long time ago with the Prince’s Bethlehem, promoted by King Charles III and meant for his future son, Charles IV. It has Neapolitan, but also Genoese and Spanish figures. It is one of the most important cribs of the entire eighteenth century and within its genre, and gradually there were more and more Neapolitan figures and houses added to it.
Certain elements of the nativity scene were provided by Italian workshops in 2001, and this workshop has traditionally provided many of the figures and architectural elements, ever since the 18th century and up until this very day.
Related article: Activities for a Romantic Day in Madrid
Taxi Manhattan
This New York style restaurant has an extensive menu, alongside an original and avant-garde catering concept. Its wall’s decorations are inspired by New York, and inside the restaurant, you can really enjoy life as if you were in the big apple for an afternoon.
Besides tasting some of its wonderful food, you can enjoy its live music, events and a varied cultural offer, that enlivens this perfect place. The spectacular Taxi Manhattan restaurant will be an extraordinary experience during every visit.
Taxi Manhattan is located in the neighbourhood of Cuatro Caminos, and they have different corners in the restaurant: one where you can have dinner quietly and comfortably, another one with excellent views and one with high tables to have some snacks. There is also a large bar to enjoy a few refreshing drinks.
What activity sounds most appealing to you?