Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
49. Royal Palace, Madrid
For almost 200 years, the Royal Palace was the residence of the Spanish monarchs. Today
it's one of the most remarkable monuments and sights of the capital, visible from many
points thanks to its location atop a hill near the city center. Located at the centric Plaza de
Oriente, the Palace is very easy to visit.
Entering the Palace is like a trip to the 18
th
Century, and in its ancient halls visitors will find
rich decorations in Spanish marbles, mahogany and stucco, as well as works of important
artists of the time, like
Giaquinto
,
Caravaggio
,
Velázquez
and
Goya
. There are also valuable
musical instruments, like a quartet made by the famous
Stradivari
for the King of Spain.
The most remarkable spot of the Palace is the throne's room, which has been kept just as it
was in the time of
Charles III
. Its dome was painted by
Tiepolo
,
and its features golden fur-
niture and tapestry made in Naples, as well as huge mirrors -among the biggest of its time
-- and beautiful glass lamps.
Other popular spots include the porcelain room and the King's chamber.
Image credit: View of the Royal Palace of Madrid (Spain) from the north-east angle. Image
When It's Free
Admission is free on Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 3 PM to 6 PM (October to March)
and from 5 PM to 8 PM (April to September). Only for citizens/residents/ workers of the
European Union or Latin American countries
.
On May 18, admission is free for everyone.
