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Madrid is known for its vibrant cultural life, its majestic buildings and its connection to literature. However, few know that this city served as inspiration for Michael Ende’s mythical work, The Neverending Story. Although the German writer never lived here, certain locations, architectural styles and the creative spirit of the Spanish capital indirectly influenced the film based on the book. From libraries that look like something out of the Ivory Tower to parks that could be home to Artax, Madrid invites you to relive the story like never before – check out our private tours here!
El Retiro: an enchanted forest in the heart of the city
If there is one place in Madrid that evokes the adventures of Bastian and Atreyu, it is the Retiro Park. This green lung of the city looks like something out of Fantasia, with its hundred-year-old trees, its mysterious corners and its magical atmosphere. The Crystal Palace could be the perfect refuge for characters like Uyulala, the voice of the Southern Oracle. As you stroll along the paths of the Retreat, you can imagine Ártax galloping freely or Atreyu facing the challenges of the Swamp of Sadness.
In addition, the Estanque Grande, with its majestic monument to Alfonso XII, is reminiscent of the iconic scene in which Bastian faces his fears to save the Childlike Empress. Don’t forget to visit the Casa de Vacas, a space that, although in real life houses art exhibitions, could serve as a meeting point for the heroes of Fantasia.
The National Library: the gateway to Fantasia
Every great story begins in a book, and in Madrid, there is no place more emblematic for literature lovers than the National Library. This imposing building, located on Paseo de Recoletos, houses thousands of volumes that transport readers to unknown worlds.
Although in The Neverending Story Bastian finds his copy in a small bookshop, the grandeur of the National Library resembles the Ivory Tower, home of the Childlike Empress. Its reading rooms, adorned with classical details, and its atmosphere of reverence for knowledge make anyone feel that they are about to embark on an epic adventure.
La Gran Vía: where fantasy and reality intersect
Madrid’s Gran Vía, with its mix of classical and modern architecture, perfectly represents the transition between Fantasy and the real world. At night, its lights and vibrant urban life could pass for the Kingdom of Fantasy illuminated by the magical auroras that appear at the end of the story.
One of the most iconic buildings on Gran Vía, the Telefónica Building, resembles a watchtower that would keep a watchful eye on the comings and goings of the heroes. In addition, many of the bookshops and shops along this avenue offer copies of The Neverending Story, along with other literary treasures that allow visitors to continue exploring magical worlds.
Madrid Río: a walk between worlds
The Manzanares River, which runs through Madrid, has been transformed in recent years into a promenade full of bridges, parks and recreational areas. This environment is perfect for imagining Atreyu’s travels as he crosses Fantasia. The bridges, with their innovative design, evoke structures that could have been built by the inhabitants of this magical kingdom.
The Monumental Bridge of Arganzuela, in particular, has a futuristic, ethereal feel that could well appear in the film. As you stroll along Madrid Río, it’s easy to let your imagination run wild and visualise fantastic creatures watching you from the banks.
