Royal Palace of Madrid

Location

The Royal Palace is located in the center of Madrid, Spain, at Plaza de Oriente, next to the Almudena Cathedral.

Description of the Place

The Royal Palace of Madrid is the official residence of the King of Spain, though it is mainly used for ceremonies and official events. It is one of the largest palaces in Europe and is renowned for its grand architecture and splendid interiors.

History

• Construction: The construction of the Royal Palace began in 1738, during the reign of Philip V, on the site of the old Alcázar of Madrid, which was destroyed by fire in 1734.
• Architect: The original design was by Italian architect Filippo Juvarra, and it was completed by architect Juan Bautista Sachetti.
• Usage: Over the years, the Palace has been the official residence of Spanish monarchs and has witnessed many historical events.

Visiting Hours

• Winter (October to March): 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Summer (April to September): 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Closed: January 1, May 15 (San Isidro), October 12 (Spain’s National Day), and December 25.

Significance

The Royal Palace symbolizes the power and history of the Spanish monarchy. It is a significant cultural heritage site and a testament to the grandeur of 18th-century art and architecture.

Admission Prices

• General Admission: Approximately €13.
• Reduced Admission: Around €7 (for seniors over 65, children aged 5 to 16, and students from the EU).
• Free Admission: For EU citizens under 5 years old and on specific days (usually Wednesday afternoons, but it is recommended to check the official website).

Features of the Place

• Salons: Highlights include the Throne Room, the Bourbon Room, and the Column Hall.
• Gardens: The Sabatini Gardens and the Campo del Moro Gardens are integral parts of the palace.
• Museums: Houses an impressive art collection, including works by Goya, Velázquez, and Caravaggio, as well as a collection of tapestries and antique furniture.

Climate and Altitude

• Climate: Madrid has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Temperatures can exceed 35°C in summer and drop to around 0°C in winter.
• Altitude: Madrid is approximately 667 meters above sea level.

How to Get There From

• From Madrid-Barajas Airport: Take Line 8 of the metro to Nuevos Ministerios, then transfer to Line 10 to Tribunal, and finally take Line 1 to Ópera Station, which is a few minutes’ walk from the palace.
• From Atocha Station: You can take Line 1 of the metro to Ópera Station, or take a direct taxi to the palace.

What to Do

• Visit the Palace: Take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of the place.
• Explore the Gardens: Stroll through the Sabatini Gardens and Campo del Moro.
• Attend Events: Check the Palace’s schedule for special events such as concerts or ceremonies.

Most Characteristic Features

The Throne Room and the impressive main staircase, the Crystal Staircase, are some of the standout elements of the Palace. The Royal Armoury Museum’s collection of weapons and armor is also notable.

Where to Stay

• Hotel Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá: A luxury hotel near the Royal Palace.
• NH Collection Madrid Palacio de Tepa: Offers comfort and is well-located in the city center.
• Hotel Mayorazgo: Just a short walk from the Royal Palace, offering good value for money.