Are you planning a trip to Madrid and wondering if you can tour the palace? The answer is yes, you can!
The Royal Palace of Madrid, also known as the Palacio Real de Madrid, is open to the public for tours. Let’s dive into what you can expect on your visit.
History of the Palace
The Royal Palace of Madrid was built in the 18th century and has been the official residence of the Spanish royal family since then. It was built on the site of an old Alcazar (fortress) that burned down in 1734. The new palace was designed by Italian architect Filippo Juvarra and later completed by his pupil, Juan Bautista Sachetti.
What to See on Your Tour
When you tour the palace, you’ll have access to many parts of the building. One highlight is the Throne Room, which has a beautiful ceiling painted by Italian artist Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. You’ll also see artwork from famous painters like Francisco de Goya and Caravaggio.
The palace has over 3,000 rooms, but not all are open to visitors. However, you can see several impressive spaces such as:
- The Royal Pharmacy – where medicines were prepared for the royal family
- The Royal Armory – a collection of armor and weapons used by Spanish monarchs
- The Royal Chapel – a beautiful space used for religious ceremonies
Tour Information
If you’re interested in touring the palace, here’s some important information:
- The palace is open every day except for some holidays.
- Tickets cost around €13 for adults and €7 for children.
- You can book your tickets online or at the palace ticket office.
- Guided tours are available in several languages, including English.
Final Thoughts
Touring the Royal Palace of Madrid is a great way to experience Spanish history and culture. With its beautiful architecture, impressive artwork, and interesting rooms, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking through many rooms and corridors. Enjoy your tour!