Royal Palace of Madrid, Europe's third largest palace, opulent and exquisite

Calle de Bailén, s n, 28071 Madrid

Fully reflects the grandeur of European palaces

4.4

Introduction

During the Moorish rule, Madrid was not the capital of Spain. To defend the city, Mohammed I built a tower at the current location of the palace. Over time, the tower was renovated and eventually declared a castle by the Castilian king in the 14th century. In 1734, the castle was destroyed by a fire, and Felipe V ordered for it to be rebuilt in 1738. After 17 years, it was finally completed. The palace's architecture was inspired by the design of the Louvre in Paris, featuring a square courtyard and galleries. Carlos III, known as the "Greatest Mayor of Madrid," was the first king to use the castle as a royal residence. The Madrid Palace is the largest palace in Western Europe, containing 3,418 rooms, each with its own unique features. It houses an extensive collection of exquisite paintings, antiques, weapons, ceramics, clocks, and silverware. The collection includes five violins made by one of the greatest stringed instrument makers in history, Antonio Stradivari, which are displayed in the music room of the Royal Library. In addition, the palace houses works by famous Spanish artists, such as Velázquez and Goya, as well as important paintings from the Italian Baroque painter, Caravaggio. Although the Madrid Palace is still the royal residence, the king only occasionally uses it for official business. If both flags on the roof of the palace are raised, it means that the king is present.

Address

Calle de Bailén, s n, 28071 Madrid

Opening hours

Winter season (October to March of the following year): 10:00-18:00 every day
Summer season (April to September): 10:00-20:00. Closed on May 1st, December 25th, January 1st, and January 6th.

Transportation

Take Metro Line 2 or 5 to Opera Station and walk west, crossing the Royal Opera House and Oriental Plaza.

Phone +34-914-548-800

Website http://www.patrimonionacional.es/