Madrid, the capital city of Spain, has a rich history dating back to the 9th century. It was originally a small village named Mayrit under the rule of the Moorish Emirate of Cordoba. The city was conquered by the Christians in the 11th century and experienced significant growth and development in the centuries that followed. Madrid became the capital of Spain in the 16th century under the rule of Phillip II. The city has been the epicenter of major historical events like the Spanish Civil War and has evolved into a bustling metropolis, renowned for its cultural and artistic heritage.