The Royal Palace of Madrid is one of the most important landmarks in Spain. Why are we saying this so confidently? Because it's the largest royal palace in western Europe and has been a key part of the country’s history for centuries. While the Spanish royal family no longer lives here, the palace is still used for official events and is open for visitors to explore. Inside, you’ll find grand halls, historic rooms, and impressive collections of art, armor, and musical instruments. Whether you’re interested in royal history, architecture, or just want to see what’s behind the palace doors, this guide will walk you through what to expect inside the Royal Palace of Madrid.
A brief history of Royal Palace of Madrid
Origins
- The Royal Palace of Madrid stands on the site of the Moorish Alcázar, a fortress that was destroyed by fire in 1734.
- Commissioned by King Philip V, the palace was designed in a grand Baroque style, inspired by the Louvre in Paris.
- Construction began in 1738 and was completed in 1764, making it the largest functioning royal palace in Europe.
Historical significance
- It served as the official residence of the Spanish monarchy until the early 20th century.
- The palace has witnessed state ceremonies, royal weddings, and official banquets.
- It houses priceless collections, including Stradivarius violins, royal armor, and frescoes by Goya and Velázquez.
Renovations & restorations
- The palace has undergone multiple restorations to preserve its paintings and architectural details.
- Recent efforts have focused on conserving the Throne Room and the Royal Chapel, ensuring they retain their original splendor.
Why visit Royal Palace of Madrid?
- Europe’s largest royal palace: A vast and breathtaking residence covering 135,000 square meters.
- Home to priceless artifacts: See royal treasures, historical weapons, and masterpieces by Spanish artists.
- Opulent interiors: Lavishly decorated rooms, including the Throne Room, Hall of Mirrors, and Banquet Hall.
- Historical importance: Experience the grandeur of Spain’s monarchy through centuries-old traditions.
- Panoramic views: Stunning gardens and terraces offer picturesque views of Madrid.
Recommended tickets
Inside the Royal Palace of Madrid
1Throne Room
The Throne Room is one of the most opulent spaces in the palace, designed to reflect the power and prestige of the monarchy. The walls are covered in rich red velvet, symbolizing royalty and grandeur, while gilded furnishings add a touch of extravagance. The magnificent chandeliers illuminate the space, casting a golden glow over the intricately designed ceiling and ornate details. This room was historically used for official ceremonies, including royal audiences and diplomatic receptions. The grandeur of the room serves as a reminder of the absolute authority of the monarchs who once ruled from this very spot.
2Hall of Mirrors
The Hall of Mirrors is a breathtaking space designed as a tribute to the famous hall in the Palace of Versailles. Adorned with massive, gilded mirrors, the room creates an illusion of endless space and light, making it one of the most visually striking areas of the palace. The ceilings are often decorated with elaborate frescoes depicting significant historical events. This hall was primarily used for official receptions, royal banquets, and state gatherings, where dignitaries and noble guests were entertained. The reflections of candlelight in the mirrors would have created a mesmerizing effect, enhancing the room's sense of luxury and sophistication.
3Royal Armory
The Royal Armory is a must-visit for history and military enthusiasts. It contains one of the most extensive collections of medieval armor, swords, lances, and firearms, some dating back several centuries. The armory displays battle-worn suits of armor once worn by knights and kings, as well as ceremonial pieces crafted with intricate engravings and gold inlays. Visitors can also see royal weapons, shields, and historical banners, providing insight into the military prowess of past monarchs. Many of the items on display were used in famous battles or were specially commissioned as gifts for rulers across Europe.
4Royal Chapel
The Royal Chapel is an architectural masterpiece, designed for the exclusive use of the royal family and their closest advisors. The chapel features a breathtaking frescoed dome, painted with scenes of religious significance, creating a celestial atmosphere. The walls and ceilings are adorned with gold-leaf detailing, marble columns, and intricate carvings. A standout feature is the 17th-century organ, which remains in excellent condition and was once played during royal ceremonies, including weddings and coronations. The chapel’s serene and sacred ambiance provides a stark contrast to the grandeur of the palace’s other rooms, offering a space for quiet reflection and devotion.
5Stradivarius Room
The Stradivarius Room is a hidden gem within the palace, dedicated to one of the rarest and most valuable collections of musical instruments in the world. It houses a set of Stradivarius string instruments, handcrafted by the legendary luthier Antonio Stradivari in the 17th and 18th centuries. These violins, violas, and cellos were once played by royal court musicians and have an unparalleled reputation for their exceptional sound quality. The room itself is designed to complement the elegance of these instruments, with rich wood paneling, velvet seating, and historic musical manuscripts on display. Even today, select performances and concerts are occasionally held using these priceless instruments, preserving their incredible legacy.
How to visit the Royal Palace of Madrid
Location & entrance
- Address: Calle de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid, Spain.
- Entrance: Plaza de la Armería – The main visitor entrance.
Access & ticket
- General Admission: €12 per person.
- Free Entry: Available Monday to Thursday (4-6 PM) for EU and Latin American citizens.
- Guided Tours: Highly recommended for deeper historical insights.
Best time to visit
- Early morning (10 AM - 12 PM): Avoid crowds.
- Late afternoon (after 4 PM): Quieter and better lighting for photos.
- Spring & Fall: Pleasant weather for exploring the palace and gardens.
Duration & route
- Recommended time: 1.5 - 2 hours for a full exploration.
- Suggested route: Start at the Throne Room → Hall of Mirrors → Royal Chapel → Armory → Gardens.
Facilities & restrictions
- Facilities: Restrooms, gift shops, and an on-site café.
- Dress Code: No strict requirements, but modest attire is recommended for the chapel.
- Restrictions: No photography inside the Throne Room and Royal Chapel.
Recommended tours
- Skip-the-Line Guided Tour: Avoid queues and get expert insights.
- Royal Palace & Almudena Cathedral Combo: Explore Madrid’s top two landmarks.
- Private Evening Tour: Exclusive access after public hours.
Tips for visiting Royal Palace of Madrid
- Book tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
- Visit in the afternoon for a quieter experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The palace has vast halls and staircases.
- Check for special exhibitions: Temporary displays often feature royal artifacts.
- Explore the Sabatini Gardens: A beautiful retreat near the palace.
Frequently asked questions
The palace was built in 1738 after the Alcázar was destroyed by fire. Designed by Filippo Juvarra, it became the official residence of the Spanish monarchy.
Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the palace, though history lovers may take longer.
Yes! Guided tours provide access to hidden areas like the Royal Library and private chambers.
Yes, the palace offers elevators and ramps for wheelchair users.
Yes, entry requires a paid ticket, but certain visitors qualify for free admission during select hours.
