The Royal Palace in Madrid is one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in Spain. It is an architectural masterpiece that has been home to Spanish royalty for centuries.
But who exactly lives in the Royal Palace in Madrid?
The answer to this question is not as straightforward as you might think. The current Spanish monarch, King Felipe VI, and his family do not actually reside in the palace. Instead, they live in the Zarzuela Palace, which is located just outside of Madrid.
However, the Royal Palace in Madrid still plays a significant role in Spanish culture and history. It is used for state ceremonies and official events such as military parades and diplomatic receptions.
So if the King doesn’t live there, who does?
The Royal Household
The Royal Household is responsible for maintaining the palace and all its treasures. This includes everything from artwork to furniture to precious jewels.
The household staff is made up of various professionals such as curators, conservators, librarians, and archivists. They work tirelessly to preserve the palace’s history and make it accessible to visitors from around the world.
The Military Order of Santiago
Another group that has a presence at the Royal Palace in Madrid is the Military Order of Santiago. This order was founded during the Middle Ages and was originally dedicated to protecting pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela.
Today, members of this order serve as ceremonial guards at the palace. They wear traditional Spanish military uniforms and carry swords as they march through the palace’s halls.
The Spanish Government
In addition to hosting state ceremonies and official events, the Royal Palace in Madrid also serves as a venue for meetings between government officials.
The palace contains several rooms that are specifically designed for this purpose, including a council chamber where important decisions are made.
In Conclusion
While King Felipe VI may not live at the Royal Palace in Madrid, it is still an important part of Spanish culture and history. The palace is home to the Royal Household, the Military Order of Santiago, and serves as a venue for important government meetings.
Whether you’re a history buff or just interested in seeing some stunning architecture, a visit to the Royal Palace in Madrid is definitely worth your time. And now that you know who lives there, you’ll have an even greater appreciation for all that it has to offer.