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Overview
The city of Aranjuez is situated at a distance of about 50 Km from Madrid and Toledo. Its location is at the junction of two rivers – Jarama and Tagus. Its population in 2009 was about 57,000.
There are different theories for the origin of the name Aranjuez. According to the first theory, this name comes from the Basque language wherein Arantza means hawthorn in English - trees or shrubs having
clusters of white or pinkish flowers and reddish fruits. Aran also means valley or plum. This city has a lot of strawberry plants that have reddish fruits.
The second theory states that it has originated from the Latin word – Ara lovia or Ara Jovis which means Jupiter’s alter. However, the first theory is the most accepted theory.
History
This town had been in existence from the period of Romans and was Knights of Santiago’s headquarters. Philip II was instrumental in developing this city in the 16th century and he called it the Royal city.
Art and Culture
The Royal Palace – was designed by the architect Juan Bautista de Toledo in the year 1560 on instructions from King Philip II. This palace got destroyed by fire twice and was completed only in 1778.
Aranjuez Gardens – the popularity of the Aranjuez palace is more due to the gardens than due to collections in the palace.
Bullfighting Museum – is one of the oldest and most beautiful bullrings in Spain, Portugal, France and Latin America.
Cuisine
This city has a good micro-climate and its fields are fertile. Its gastronomy centers around asparagus, broad beans and artichokes and these are extensively used in the local cuisine. This place is also
popular for growing juicy and sweet strawberries.
Sports and Entertainment
Water sports such as canoeing and rowing are popular in this city because of the connection with the river Tagus. Madrid bid for 2012 Olympics and they planned to hold the above water sports in Aranjuez.
Football is a very popular game in this city. In addition, facilities are available for skydiving and gliding.Shopping
There are souvenir shops inside the Royal Palace that sell items from the Aranjuez and other palaces in Spain. Handkerchiefs, mugs, pencils, chocolates, postcards, books, umbrellas, etc. can be bought in
these shops. Business
The economy of this city depends mainly on hotels and tourism. It attracts the tourists because of the Royal Palace, gardens, river Tagus and various landscapes. This city was designated by UNESCO as
the World Heritage Cultural Landscape In 2001; from this time onwards the tourist population has gone up considerably. A Pub was opened in 2005.
This city is situated in the fertile plains of river Tagus and hence suitable for growing various items such as cereals, wheat, strawberries, asparagus, melons, vines, etc.
Since this city is located very near to Madrid, its road and rail communications with Madrid are good and it is better suited for industries.
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