The Community of Madrid has been the birthplace or adopted home of countless figures who have shaped Spanish and global history.
- **Miguel de Cervantes:** (1547–1616) Born in Alcalá de Henares, the legendary author of *Don Quixote*. - **Lope de Vega:** (1562–1635) One of the most prolific and important playwrights of the Spanish Golden Age. - **Francisco de Goya:** (1746–1828) Though born in Aragon, the master painter spent much of his life in Madrid, capturing its society and tragedies. - **Penélope Cruz:** (b. 1974) Academy Award-winning actress born in the Madrid municipality of Alcobendas. - **Iker Casillas:** (b. 1981) Legendary goalkeeper and World Cup-winning captain, born in Móstoles. - **Plácido Domingo:** (b. 1941) World-renowned operatic tenor, born in the city of Madrid. - **Enrique Iglesias:** (b. 1975) Globally successful pop singer and songwriter, born in Madrid. - **Felipe VI:** (b. 1968) The current King of Spain, born in Madrid.