👑 The Majestic Royal Palace (Palacio Real): A Journey into Imperial History in the Heart of Madrid

Madrid, a vibrant and bustling city, harbors a treasure of history, art, and architecture in its heart: the Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real). Often simply called "Palacio de Oriente" due to its proximity to the square of the same name, this is the official residence of the Spanish monarchy and a fascinating journey through centuries of opulence, protocol, and Bourbon legacy.

📜 A Silent Witness to Royal History

The current palace stands on the site of the old fortress Real Alcázar de Madrid, a medieval castle that was consumed by a devastating fire in 1734. The construction of the new palace began under the reign of Felipe V (the first Spanish Bourbon) in 1738 and was first inhabited by Carlos III in 1764.

Although the Spanish monarchs today reside in the Palacio de la Zarzuela, the Royal Palace of Madrid remains their official residence and the stage for the most important State ceremonies, from royal banquets to receptions for heads of state.

💎 What Awaits You Inside? Treasures of the Crown

Prepare to be mesmerized by the opulence and art housed within the Royal Palace—the largest working royal palace in Western Europe.

• Throne Room (Salón del Trono): A room of incalculable value, where the splendor of Tiépolo's frescoes and the red velvet decoration dominate the hall, used for official receptions by the Royal Household.

• Gasparini Room (Salón de Gasparini): One of the most photographed and famous halls due to its exquisite and ornate Rococo decoration in the Chinoiserie style—a true extravagance of 18th-century art.

• Gala Dining Hall (Comedor de Gala): An immense hall where gala dinners and State banquets are held, with capacity for over 140 guests.

• The Royal Armory (Real Armería): One of the most significant collections of armor and weapons in the world, featuring pieces dating back to the 13th century that belonged to Spanish kings.

• The Royal Kitchen (Real Cocina): A surprisingly well-preserved jewel. Restored and open to the public, it offers a unique glimpse into how royal banquets were prepared in the 19th century, with its impressive stoves, utensils, and machinery.

• The Royal Pharmacy (Real Farmacia): With its thousands of ceramic jars, historic counters, and ancient recipes, it provides an interesting insight into the medicine and apothecary art of the era.

🌳 The Royal Surroundings: Gardens for Relaxation

The Palace is flanked by two essential green spaces:

• Sabatini Gardens (Jardines de Sabatini): Designed in a strict French style and known for their symmetrical hedges, fountains, and sculptures. They offer one of the best panoramic views of the Palace at sunset.

• Campo del Moro: An extensive landscaped garden (English style) located directly behind the Palace, offering a unique perspective from the base of the west façade. It is ideal for a quiet walk.

ℹ️ Essential Tips for Your Visit

Aspect	Practical Details	Important Note
Tickets	Buy your tickets online to avoid long queues, especially in spring and summer.	Official Website: [Webseite des Patrimonio Nacional - Palacio Real]
Opening Hours	Vary depending on the season. Opening is usually at 10:00 AM.	The Palace is closed for official events without prior notice; consult the website before your visit.
Free Access	Citizens of the European Union and residents have free entry during the last two hours of opening (ID required).	Queues for free access can be long.
Guided Tour	Consider booking a guided tour to avoid missing any historical and artistic details of the palace.	The average duration of a self-guided visit is 1.5 to 2 hours.
Location	Address: C/ de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid. (Next to the Plaza de Oriente).	Nearest Metro station: Ópera (Lines 2, 5, and Ramal).

Visiting the Royal Palace of Madrid is much more than seeing a beautiful building; it is immersing yourself in the history of Spain, marveling at its artistic legacy, and walking through the halls that were the center of power for centuries.