Madrid, the capital city of Spain, is known for its rich history and culture. One of the most common questions asked by tourists visiting Madrid is whether the city has a castle or not.
The answer to this question is both yes and no. Let’s explore further.
Yes – The Royal Palace of Madrid
Although not technically a castle, the Royal Palace of Madrid is often referred to as such due to its grand size and regal architecture. Located in the heart of the city, it was built in the eighteenth century and served as the residence of Spain’s monarchs until 1931.
The palace currently serves as a museum and is open to visitors year-round. It boasts over 3,000 rooms, making it one of Europe’s largest palaces. Visitors can explore its stunning architecture, intricate frescoes, and impressive art collection.
No – The Alcazar of Madrid
Unlike many other European cities, Madrid does not have a medieval castle within its city limits. However, there was once an Alcazar (fortress) located on the site where the Royal Palace now stands.
The Alcazar was originally built in the ninth century by Arab rulers and served as a fortress until it was destroyed by fire in 1734. The current palace was then built on top of its ruins.
Other Castles Near Madrid
If you’re looking for castles near Madrid to explore during your visit, there are several options within driving distance:
- Segovia Castle: Located about an hour’s drive from Madrid, Segovia Castle is one of Spain’s most famous castles and boasts stunning views over the city below.
- Aranjuez Castle: This castle is located about 50 kilometers south of Madrid and is known for its beautiful gardens and stunning architecture.
- Manzanares el Real Castle: Located about 45 kilometers north of Madrid, this castle was built in the fifteenth century and is one of the best-preserved castles in Spain.
In Conclusion
While Madrid may not have a castle within its city limits, the Royal Palace more than makes up for it with its grandeur and history. And with several stunning castles located just a short drive away, there are plenty of opportunities to explore Spain’s rich medieval history during your visit to Madrid.
So the next time someone asks you if Madrid has a castle, you can confidently answer yes – sort of.