If you’re planning a visit to Madrid, you might be wondering if anyone lives in the Royal Palace. After all, it’s a grand and imposing structure that has been around for centuries. So, does anyone actually call the Royal Palace home?
History of the Royal Palace
Before we answer that question, let’s take a brief look at the history of the Royal Palace. The palace was built in the 18th century on the site of an old Alcazar fortress that had burned down. It was designed by Italian architect Filippo Juvarra and Spanish architect Juan Bautista Sachetti and served as the residence of the Spanish monarchs until 1931.
Current Use
Today, while the Royal Palace is still used for official state ceremonies and events, no one actually lives there full-time. Instead, King Felipe VI and his family reside in the more modest Zarzuela Palace on the outskirts of Madrid.
However, some areas of the Royal Palace are open to visitors. The palace contains over 3,000 rooms, although not all of them are accessible to tourists. Visitors can explore parts of the palace such as the State Rooms, which include lavish reception halls such as the Throne Room and Banquet Hall.
The State Apartments
One of the highlights of any visit to the Royal Palace is exploring its State Apartments. These rooms were used by Spanish monarchs for official functions such as audiences with foreign dignitaries and state banquets.
The apartments are lavishly decorated with ornate furniture, chandeliers, tapestries, and paintings by famous artists such as Goya and Velázquez. Some notable rooms within this area include:
- The Porcelain Room – named for its collection of Chinese porcelain
- The Gasparini Room – featuring frescoes by Italian artist Corrado Giaquinto
- The Royal Chapel – a stunning Baroque chapel with a gilded altarpiece
- The Hall of Mirrors – modeled after the famous Hall of Mirrors in Versailles
Conclusion
In summary, while no one actually lives in the Royal Palace in Madrid, it remains an important symbol of Spain’s rich history and cultural heritage. As a tourist, you can explore parts of the palace and marvel at its grandeur, from the State Apartments to the beautiful gardens that surround it. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just want to experience a taste of royal life, a visit to the Royal Palace is an absolute must when in Madrid.