The Royal Palace of Madrid is one of the most iconic landmarks in Spain. It has been the official residence of the Spanish monarchy since the 18th century.
But who lived in the palace before it became a royal residence? Let’s explore the history of this magnificent building.
The Early Years
The Royal Palace of Madrid was originally built as a fortress by the Moors in the 9th century. It was called Alcázar de los Austrias and served as a military stronghold for many centuries. In 1561, King Philip II decided to make Madrid the capital of Spain, and he chose Alcázar de los Austrias as his official residence.
The Tragedy
In 1734, tragedy struck when a fire engulfed the palace, destroying much of its interior and leaving it uninhabitable. The then reigning monarch, King Philip V, decided to rebuild the palace on a grander scale. He commissioned Italian architect Filippo Juvarra to design a new palace that would rival those of other European monarchs.
Completion and Occupancy
Construction on the new palace began in 1738 and took over 20 years to complete. Unfortunately, Juvarra passed away before he could see his masterpiece finished. The palace was finally completed in 1764 under the direction of Spanish architect Juan Bautista Sachetti.
The first royal family to inhabit the newly completed Royal Palace of Madrid was that of King Charles III. He moved into the palace with his wife Maria Amalia in 1764. They oversaw many improvements to the palace during their reign, including adding new gardens and fountains.
Later Occupants
Over time, many other members of royalty have lived in the Royal Palace of Madrid. This includes kings such as Ferdinand VII and Alfonso XIII, as well as foreign monarchs like Napoleon Bonaparte’s brother Joseph, who briefly occupied the palace during the French occupation of Spain.
Today, the Royal Palace of Madrid is a popular tourist destination and is used for official state ceremonies and events. It houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts, including works by famous artists like Goya and Velázquez.
Conclusion
The Royal Palace of Madrid has a rich history that spans over a thousand years. From its early days as a fortress to its current role as a symbol of Spanish royalty, the palace has undergone many changes. While it may have started as a military stronghold, it has now become one of the most recognizable buildings in Spain.
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