Madrid's Cultural Oasis Amidst Scorching Summer Heat
To combat the sweltering summer temperatures, the City of Madrid is transforming its cultural institutions into cool refuges for tourists. With temperatures soaring to 40 degrees Celsius, the Spanish capital has seen a significant influx of tourists, especially from countries like the USA, Germany, France, and Mexico. In July and August 2023 alone, Madrid welcomed over 1.6 million tourists.
Free Flamenco Shows in Major Museums
The Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen museums, along with the Royal Collections gallery, will host free flamenco performances daily from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. throughout July and August. Renowned flamenco artists such as Eduardo Guerrero, Rafael Andujar, and Yolanda Osuna will entertain visitors, providing a culturally rich escape from the heat.
Cinemas and Libraries Join the Initiative
Cinemas in Madrid are also participating by offering reduced prices for early screenings around 4 p.m., while libraries will feature humorous monologue shows in the early afternoon. According to Marta Rivera de la Cruz, the municipality’s Culture and Tourism advisor, this initiative aims to change attitudes towards heat and raise awareness, without incurring additional energy costs.
- The measure, implemented for the first time this summer, is designed to ensure that tourists and residents alike can enjoy Madrid's cultural offerings without suffering from the extreme heat. It highlights the city's commitment to providing comfortable and enjoyable experiences for its visitors.
- Marta Rivera de la Cruz emphasizes that while the initiative does not directly address climate change, it promotes a shift in how people cope with high temperatures. This approach encourages the use of existing air-conditioned spaces like museums, cinemas, and libraries as safe havens during the hottest parts of the day.
