Legends of Spain: Madrid
“Legends of Spain” uncovers Spain as a rich, mysterious landscape of myth and storytelling. Through the lens of renowned photographer Matthieu Paley, National Geographic CreativeWorks explored how geography, history, and culture inspired some of the greatest Spanish legends—imploring curious travellers to come and discover a side of Spain they’ve never even imagined.
Photograph by Matthieu Paley

Please be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.
THE BRIEF
Madrid is more than just a capital city; it’s a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and tradition that offers visitors an authentic Spanish experience. While many think they know Madrid, our brief was to immerse audiences in the true spirit of the region—not just to see how Madridians live, but to live like a Madridian.
Additionally, we were tasked with showing that Madid isn’t just the city, but a sprawling region that includes the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. Just over half an hour from the bustling streets of Madrid, Guadarrama offers a serene escape into a world of natural wonders, deep-rooted traditions, and especially legends.
Additionally, we were tasked with showing that Madid isn’t just the city, but a sprawling region that includes the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. Just over half an hour from the bustling streets of Madrid, Guadarrama offers a serene escape into a world of natural wonders, deep-rooted traditions, and especially legends.
Photograph by Matthieu Paley
Please be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.
THE SOLUTION
Captured through the lens of Matthieu Paley, we told stories that intertwined history and legend to invite visitors to look beyond the familiar and discover the hidden gems that make this region truly special.
Whether it’s the sky-gazing, easy going nature of the city, the mythic peaks and eternal life of the Sierra de Guadarrama, or the timeless traditions that connect past and present, Madrid offers an experience that is as diverse as it is unforgettable.
Custom content (videos, articles, and galleries) was distributed through our existing dedicated content hub, which was also localized in Spanish, Brazilian, and Polish. This was then amplified across our global digital and social platforms including organic Instagram reels, carousel and stories on the @natgeotravel account, TikTok video posts and Facebook organic and dark paid posts.
Bespoke content was also featured in the National Geographic Newsletter and the National Geographic Global Magazine.
Whether it’s the sky-gazing, easy going nature of the city, the mythic peaks and eternal life of the Sierra de Guadarrama, or the timeless traditions that connect past and present, Madrid offers an experience that is as diverse as it is unforgettable.
Custom content (videos, articles, and galleries) was distributed through our existing dedicated content hub, which was also localized in Spanish, Brazilian, and Polish. This was then amplified across our global digital and social platforms including organic Instagram reels, carousel and stories on the @natgeotravel account, TikTok video posts and Facebook organic and dark paid posts.
Bespoke content was also featured in the National Geographic Newsletter and the National Geographic Global Magazine.
Photograph by Matthieu Paley
Please be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.
EXPLORE MORE
Photograph by Matthieu Paley
Please be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.
GET IN TOUCH
Interested in working with National Geographic? Please reach out to Nadine Heggie at Nadine.Heggie@natgeo.com.
Photograph by Matthieu Paley