I have been coming to Madrid for more than six years and have always enjoyed spending time with Stephen Drake Jones (
www.wellsoc.org ). If you are an English speaker and want to feel the pulse of Madrid, and feel its history in your bones, you must call him (number on the website). He can give you the perspective of someone who has lived in Madrid for 30 years (as of this April 6), and everywhere you go you will be treated like an old friend.
Best regards,
Jon