Inside The Royal Palace Of Madrid

The Royal Palace of Madrid is the official residence of the royal family of Spain in Madrid city. It is the largest Palace in Western Europe and one the largest in the world. You can witness centuries of Spanish history and culture inside the Royal Palace of Madrid. The Palace has been home to Kings of Spain from Charles III to Alfonso XIII. It's one of the few places that are open to the public to visit. Around 2 million people visit annually to witness the historical rooms, art and treasure inside the Royal Palace of Madrid.

The Palace is built in the form of a square that looks out over a large courtyard with a parade ground and galleries, and it is said to be inspired by the sketches Bernini made for the construction of the Louvre in Paris. You'll even get a glimpse of royal life via the stately dining room, the royal chapel, and the crown jewel of the Palace, the throne room. Home to weapons and armour used by Spanish royalty since the 13th century, it's one of the world's most impressive collections of its kind. The attractions in Royal Palace of Madrid comprise over 3000 rooms. The attraction includes The Throne room, The Royal Armoury, the Painting Gallery, Main Staircase, designed by Sabatini, Hall of Columns, Gasparini's Hall, Royal Kitchen, Gala Dining Room, Royal Chapel, and the Hall Of Halberdiers, turned into the Guards Room by Charles III.

The Throne Room
The Throne Room

As you step inside the Royal Palace of Madrid, you will be drawn to the magnificence of the throne room. As the centrepiece of the palace since 1772, this room exudes the Spanish monarchy's grandeur. Its expansive fresco by Tiepolo depicts "The greatness and power of the Spanish monarchy," unravelling the royal family's saga leading to the prominent throne. Giovanni Battista Natali, an Italian maestro, crafted the lavish furniture and throne that stands guarded by golden lions and statues of Minerva and Apollo. With red velvet walls and intricate details, this room captures the essence of royal opulence and history in one glance.


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Royal Armory
Royal Armory

When you wander inside Royal Palace of Madrid, make sure to head to, the Royal Armory, which is known for its magnetic allure. More than just a display, it stands as a world-renowned museum of warfare and defence. Charles III's foresight ended the tradition of gifting armours, enabling visitors like you to marvel at this vast collection. Showcasing hundreds of weapons, from Spanish to Moorish, its historical tapestry unravels Spain's dominance during the Renaissance. The intricate armours of Charles V and Philip II highlight its treasured assortment. Moreover, as Europe's most significant along with Vienna's Imperial Armoury, it's a testament to regal might and artistry.


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Hall Of Columns
Hall Of Columns

During your exploration of the Royal Palace of Madrid Inside, the Hall of Columns stands out as a testament to centuries-old grandeur. A space once resonating with official balls and pivotal treaty signings, it's steeped in history. It is here where you will be captivated by the dominant bronze sculpture of Charles V, though it's a replica of the original housed in the Prado Museum. The intricately painted vault overhead captures the sun, a metaphor for the monarch, illuminating the hall. Moreover, this room is a blend of ceremonial importance and artistic brilliance, from Belgian tapestries to frescoes narrating royal chronicles.


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Main Staircase
Main Staircase

Main Staircase, stands as an emblem of majesty and grandeur during your tour of the Royal Palace of Madrid Inside. As you ascend its 72 marble steps, the sheer opulence, mirrored in the Imperial style and double level, engulfs you. Designed by Sabatini, the staircase witnessed changes over the years, yet retains its awe-inspiring beauty. At the central landing, the imposing statue of Carlos III reminds visitors of the palace's historical roots. Envisioned to showcase power and luxury, it is a testament to the artistry and vision of yesteryears' architects.


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The Gasparini Salon
The Gasparini Salon

The Gasparini Salon unveils a tapestry of rococo elegance inside Royal Palace of Madrid. A vision of Matías Gasparini, this room stands as an epitome of ornate artistry. Initially serving as Carlos III's chamber, it now embraces guests for regal interludes post-formal receptions. Marvel at the meticulous marble floors, silver-threaded tapestries, and furnishings crafted by master European artisans. While the salon's aesthetics remain untouched, its rich history and seamless blend of international craftsmanship captivate every visitor. The Gasparini Salon is an encounter with grandeur, frozen in time.


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The Stradivarius Hall
The Stradivarius Hall

The Stradivarius Hall within the Royal Palace of Madrid captivates you with its cultural grandeur. Showcasing an unparalleled collection, you will encounter four exquisite instruments crafted by Antonio Stradivari in 1700: a viola, a cello, and two violins. These aren't just historical artefacts; they come to life during concerts, resonating with music that has charmed audiences for centuries. Beyond their sonic beauty, these instruments are a testament to the palace's rich musical legacy, making the hall a must-visit for music enthusiasts.


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Gala Dining Room
Gala Dining Room

Within the Royal Palace of Madrid, the Gala Dining Room stands as a grand testament to opulence and history. Transitioning from the Yellow Sallet, you are ushered into a vast space due to Alfonso XII's vision of merging three rooms. This room, boasts a seating capacity for 144 guests and transforms effortlessly from a dining hall to a dance floor. Adorned with 18th-century frescoes, neo-baroque influences, and Parisian bronze chandeliers, it resonates with regality. Today, it hosts state dinners, reminding you of its enduring legacy and magnificence.

Royal Chapel
Royal Chapel

Inside the Royal Palace of Madrid, the Royal Chapel stands as an emblem of the deep ties between the Spanish monarchy and the Church. While the architectural project remains incomplete, its beauty is undeniable. The awe-inspiring dome, adorned with paintings by Sachetti and Ventura Rodriguez, contrasts the altar's austerity. You can also explore beyond the antechapel, where only the royalty used to go, and see the tribune where kings attended mass. Additionally, the Chapel's unique organ, a testament to Ferdinand VI's love for music, resonates with unparalleled sound quality.

Hall Of Halberdiers
Hall Of Halberdiers

The Hall of Halberdiers, located inside Royal Palace of Madrid, beckons you with its solemn elegance. Originally designed as a ballroom by architect Sacchetti, its purpose was transformed under Charles III to house the royal guards. Despite the vast shift from luxurious decorations to simpler Tuscan pilasters, artistry still thrives here. The ceiling boasts a mesmerizing fresco by Giambattista Tiepolo, depicting Venus and Aeneas. Mahogany furniture and exquisite artworks, including the "Family of Juan Carlos I" by Antonio López, add warmth and depth. Throughout, mahogany consoles, bronze artefacts, and masterful paintings elevate its charm, offering a blend of history and artistry.

The Hall of Mirrors
The Hall of Mirrors

The Hall of Mirrors stands as a mesmerizing chamber of reflections and artistry inside the Royal Palace of Madrid. Designed initially for consort Maria Luisa of Parma, it mirrors the grandeur of Versailles, and offers a space where royalty dressed in historical opulence. Tomás de Castro's detailed artworks narrate tales through sculptures and paintings, each bearing significant meaning. Although past kings, like Alfonso XIII, transformed its purpose, today it harmoniously hosts the Royal Orchestra, serenading guests during grand banquets.

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Highlights
  • Visit the largest and most luxurious palace of Europe, the Royal Palace of Madrid, which spans an area of over 135,000 square meters.

  • Admire the majestic Baroque facade and elegant interiors, influenced by French and Italian styles at the palace.

  • Wander through the halls decorated with frescoes, chandeliers, and priceless artworks by masters like Velázquez and Goya.

  • See the palace's Royal Armory section, one of the most extensive and impressive armory collections in Europe, featuring medieval weapons, armor, and ceremonial pieces.

  • Reserve your spot by booking last-minute entrance tickets for this otherwise sold-out attraction.

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Must Know Before You Go
  • ID proof is mandatory for each individual guest at the time of arrival.
  • All visitors must pass through a security check prior to entering Madrid Palace.
  • Manual wheelchairs are available to rent.
  • Arrive at the activity location 15 minutes before the start.
  • Please note that the time slots may be subject to slight variations, and we will allocate a time slot available within a 30-minute window before or after your initial selection.
  • Smoking is prohibited within the palace premises.
  • Refrain from touching artefacts, furnishings, and decorations to preserve them for future generations.
  • Maintain a quiet atmosphere and refrain from making loud noises to respect other visitors and the palace's ambience.
  • Consuming food and drink is not permitted inside the palace.
  • Respect the palace's photography policy; flash photography may be prohibited in certain areas.
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FAQs

Why is the Royal Palace of Madrid so famous?

    The Royal Palace of Madrid is the official residence of the Spanish royal family. Although the King and Queen of Spain do not reside there currently, it has become one of the most important Baroque palaces because of its historical significance, neoclassical elements and great artwork.

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