Berlin and Madrid have been partner cities since the signing of an agreement on 4 November 1988 in Madrid.
The reasons for their city partnership included the good relationship between the people of Germany and Spain in general and the desire to promote European integration.
Exchange between the two cities is concentrated on traditional administrative areas, but is very pronounced in initiatives by private citizens, in volunteer work, and in the cultural sector as well. The Spanish Embassy is a strong supporter of cultural exchange between the two partner cities.
Berlin is an active member of the European Capitals’ Police Network, and this organization’s most recent meetings took place in Madrid and Berlin.
The Madrid universities Politécnica and Autónoma carry out frequent projects with Berlin’s Humboldt Universität and Freie Universität.
The open-air exhibition of masterpieces from Madrid’s Museo del Prado took place from 5 September to 14 October 2022, with 52 works on display on the square around the Neptune Fountain in front of the Berlin Town Hall. The exhibition also aimed to reach people who don’t ordinarily visit museums, and arouse their interest in seeing more. The Museo del Prado has a nearby Neptune Fountain of its own, the Fuente de Neptuno.
In 2023, Madrid and Berlin will celebrate the 35th anniversary of their city partnership.