Who Decorated the Royal Palace of Madrid?

By Robert Palmer

The Royal Palace of Madrid, situated in the heart of the city, is a magnificent building that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is one of the largest palaces in Europe and has been the residence of Spanish monarchs for centuries.

But have you ever wondered who was responsible for its stunning decoration? Let’s take a closer look.

The Architects

The Royal Palace of Madrid was designed by two Italian architects, Filippo Juvarra and Francesco Sabatini. Juvarra was commissioned by King Philip V in 1734 to create a new palace that would rival the grandeur of other European palaces.

Sadly, he passed away before he could complete the project. Sabatini took over and finished the palace in 1764.

The Interiors

The interiors of the palace were decorated by some of the most talented artists and craftsmen of their time. The walls and ceilings are adorned with beautiful frescoes, paintings, and sculptures.

Giovanni Battista Tiepolo

One of the most notable artists who worked on decorating the palace was Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. He painted several frescoes on the ceilings depicting scenes from Spanish mythology and history. His work can be seen in various rooms throughout the palace, including the Throne Room, Hall of Mirrors, and Banquet Hall.

Antonio González Velázquez

Another artist who contributed to the decoration of the palace was Antonio González Velázquez. He created several large-scale paintings for various rooms in the palace, including portraits of Spanish monarchs as well as scenes from Spanish history.

The Furniture

The furniture in the Royal Palace of Madrid is just as impressive as its decoration. The pieces were crafted by skilled artisans using only the finest materials available at that time.

Jerónimo de Mora

Jerónimo de Mora was a master cabinetmaker who created some of the most exquisite furniture in the palace. He crafted several pieces for the Throne Room, including the throne itself, as well as cabinets and tables for other rooms.

Diego de Villanueva

Diego de Villanueva was another talented craftsman who created furniture for the palace. He designed and built several pieces for King Charles III’s private rooms, including a magnificent secretary desk made of mahogany and ebony.

The Conclusion

In conclusion, the Royal Palace of Madrid is not only a stunning example of Baroque architecture but also an exquisite showcase of art and craftsmanship. The architects, artists, and craftsmen who worked on its decoration left an enduring legacy that continues to awe visitors to this day. So next time you visit Madrid, make sure to pay a visit to this magnificent palace and admire its beauty up close!