Atocha

Atocha is a municipality located in the province of Madrid, Spain. It is situated in the southern part of the Community of Madrid, bordering the municipalities of Leganés, Getafe, and Madrid itself. Atocha is primarily known for its significant transportation hub, the Atocha railway station, which is one of the busiest in Spain. This station serves as a major nexus for high-speed rail (AVE), regional, and commuter lines, connecting Madrid to numerous cities across the country.

Historically, the area around Atocha has played a role in Madrid's development, particularly with the arrival of the railway in the 19th century. The original Atocha station, opened in 1851, was a precursor to the modern complex. The station building itself is notable for its historic main hall, which has been transformed into a tropical garden, offering a green oasis within the bustling terminal. Adjacent to the station are the Reina Sofía Museum, one of Spain's major art museums housing works by artists like Picasso and Dalí, and the large Parque de El Retiro, a popular public park.

The municipality of Atocha is not a distinct administrative entity in the same way a separate town might be; rather, "Atocha" most commonly refers to the iconic railway station and its immediate surroundings within the city of Madrid. The area's importance as a transportation and cultural center makes it a well-known landmark and a crucial point of access to the Spanish capital.