Madrid
Palacio Real
Located on the site of a ninth-century Moorish fortress, the Palacio Real (Royal Palace) is the official residence of the Spanish royal family. Completely rebuilt after a 1734 fire, the present-day palace is a granite-and-stone Baroque structure with large Tuscan pillars. Although the royals actually live in the countryside Palacio de la Zarzuela, this complex still hosts official state ceremonies. The venue opens 50 of its 2,800 rooms for tours, including the embroidered-velvet throne room, the banquette room, the royal pharmacy, and the armory, filled with ancient weaponry. Highlights also include paintings by Francisco de Goya and a Stradivarius quintet.
Insider Tip:
At noon on the first Wednesday of the month, you can watch the 40-minute changing of the guard ceremony, which includes 400 soldiers and 100 horses.
Amenities
Open / Closes- Accessible by Public Transportation
- Art
- History
- Indoor
- Outdoor
