1. 阅读理解

Look at a map of Spain and point at the center. You'll locate the country's capital and one of Europe's most beautiful cities: Madrid. This popular destination is considered a city of contrasts with its abundant historic sites, resting in the shadows of modern skyscrapers.

History

This city of over 3 million people is proud of Western Europe's largest royal palace, and some consider it to be Madrid's most beautiful building.

Inside the Royal Palace 2,800 rooms are decorated in glory with museum­quality furniture and artwork. Tourists can tour 50 of these large and splendid rooms.

Art

The internationally respected Prado Museum is the largest and most impressive art gallery in Spain. Founded in 1819, it is filled with works of art that feature the world's most comprehensive collection of Spanish paintings.

Shopping

Madrid has some of Europe's best shopping malls, and potential buyers love to look through the stores looking for bargains. But for 500 years, shoppers have gathered to an extremely large outdoor flea market known as El Rastro where they find everything from antiques to CDs.

Entertainment

No trip to Madrid is complete without seeing a performance of Spain's famous art form, flamenco. Every day, flamenco performers sing, dance or play the guitar in small cafes and grand theaters alike.

Food

Madrid has a wide variety of restaurants, but because the Spanish typically eat late at about 9 or 10 pm, it's difficult to find good dinner food earlier. If you get hungry before then, the best solution is to try a tapas bar where light snacks are served. Be sure to try the jamon, dry­cured ham — Spain is famous for it.

Time for a break

After a day of touring, relax in 350­acre Retiro Park with its beautiful gardens, fish pond and lake. It is the perfect place to reflect on all you've enjoyed in this impressive Spanish city.

1. （1） What do we know about the Royal Palace?

   A . It has 50 rooms for visit. B . It can hold 2,800 people. C . It's been visited by 3 million people. D . It is thought to be the largest in Europe.
3. （2） What kind of market is "El Rastro"？

   A . For discount. B . For artworks. C . To sell various goods. D . To sell antiques and CDs.
5. （3） What is a must when people are travelling in Madrid?

   A . Enjoying flamenco. B . Having dinner earlier. C . Relaxing in Retiro Park. D . Drinking in a tapas bar.