Madrid’s train station

Train stations are a big thing in Europe…much more so than in North America. I guess that is logical as travel by train is so much more common in Europe.

Madrid’s oldest and largest train station is Atocha station. You will find it right in the heart of Madrid (right where a tourist would hope it to be! Correct?)

Welcome to Atocha

Not what you would expect to find in a train station is it.

In addition to the necessary attributes that make this a train station (like sign boards, tracks, escalators, etc.) there is a large and lovely tropical garden that runs down the middle of the station.

(Click on any photo to enlarge it.)

Quite delightful! A refreshing change from most train station decor.

While in the station look for the Memorial.

We first saw this from the outside and wondered what it was…a sunlight? an exhaust pipe?

Knowing there was a memorial to the victims of the May 11 attack somewhere inside the station, we went searching for signs. And you do have to search…it is right there amidst the hustle and bustle of the station but it hard to see. (Sometimes the things right in front of you are the hardest to see!)

When you find the signs, an attendant will admit you into the memorial.

Inside it is quiet, cool, peaceful.

A place for quiet reflection and remembrance.

The “skylight” is filled with messages that poured in from around the world after the tragic event of May 11, 2004.

The messages seem to be soaring to (or perhaps from) the heavens.

(Remember you can click on the photo to read some of the messages.)

Sit a while. Reflect. Be at peace.

Even the benches along the edge of the room are designed to help you meditate in comfort. (truly!)

Visit more of Madrid and Spain with us…click here.

and/or

Visit other countries…click here.