Royal Palace Madrid

Palacio Real
C/ Bailen S/N
Metro: Opera

Spain’s Royal Palace is located in the heart of Madrid’s historic district, just a ten minute walk from Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor. The palace is the city’s largest building, and the largest palace in Western Europe. The palace was built between 1738 and 1755, over the ruins of a destroyed Moorish castle, for the court of King Phillip V. The building is stunningly beautiful and flanked by the Sabatini and Campo del Moro gardens.

The palace is the official residence of the King of Spain. However, visitors can take a guided tour of part of the palace, which contains furniture, tapestries, frescos, ceramics and works of art by Tiépolo. Velázquez, Goya, Giordano, Caravaggio and Mengs. The royal armory is also located inside of the palace and preserves weapons and armor that belong to the Spanish crown and date as far back as XIII century.

The palace is open to the public year round, but closes on national holidays and days of official ceremonies and receptions. From October to March, the palace opens Monday to Saturday from 9:30AM to 5:00PM and Sundays from 9:00AM to 2:00PM. From April to September the palace opens Monday to Saturday from 9:00AM to 6:00PM and Sundays from 9:00AM to 3:00PM.