Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena de Madrid, A modern touch to spiritual magnificence
Plaza de la Almudena, 28013 Madrid
4.1
Introduction
The Almudena Cathedral, located on the west side of the center of Madrid, is the center of the Archdiocese of Madrid, and faces the Royal Palace across the Plaza de la Armeria to the north. The cathedral's patron saint is the Virgin of Almudena, who is also the patron saint of Madrid. Plans to build this cathedral date back to the 16th century, but construction did not officially begin until 1879 and was interrupted at times. The original Gothic architectural style was changed to Baroque style when construction resumed, in order to match the facade of the Royal Palace. The cathedral was consecrated by Pope John Paul II on June 15th, 1993, becoming the newest cathedral in Europe. The original form of the Virgin of Almudena is enshrined in a small chapel on the west side of the cathedral. Address Plaza de la Almudena, 28013 Madrid
Opening hours Monday to Sunday 9:00-20:30
Museum and Dome Monday to Saturday 10:00-14:30.
Transportation Take the subway lines 1, 2, or 3 to Vodafone Sol station, and walk west along Calle Mayor until the end.