Royal Palace of Madrid

The Royal Palace of Madrid, often called the Palace of the Orient because of its location relative to the Plaza de Oriente, is one of the most iconic monuments in the Spanish capital. With a rich and complex history dating back centuries, the palace represents not only an architectural masterpiece, but also a symbol of power and culture in Spain. The history of the Palacio Real begins in the 9th century, when the area was occupied by a Muslim fortress. After the Christian Reconquest, the fortress was transformed into a Christian castle, known as the Alcázar of Madrid. However, it was in the 18th century that the palace took on its current form. After a fire destroyed the Alcázar on Christmas Eve in 1734, King Philip V decided to build a new royal palace that would rival other great European residences. Construction of the new palace began in 1738 under the direction of the Italian architect Filippo Juvarra, who died shortly after the start of the work. It was his student, Giovanni Battista Sacchetti, who continued the project, making significant changes to the original plans.The result was an imposing building in Baroque style, inspired by the great royal residences of France and Italy. With over 3,000 rooms spread over 135,000 square meters, the Palacio Real is one of the largest royal palaces in Europe. Its monumental facades, inner courtyards, and sumptuous gardens are a perfect example of Baroque and Neoclassical architecture.Inside the palace, each room tells a story of opulence and power. The royal apartments are richly decorated with frescoes, tapestries, fine furniture, and works of art by great masters such as Caravaggio, Velázquez, and Goya. One of the most spectacular rooms is the Throne Room, with its ceiling painted by Corrado Giaquinto and thrones made during the reign of Charles III. The Gala Dining Room, with its long table capable of seating up to 144 people, is another example of the palace’s magnificence.In addition to its sumptuous rooms, the Palacio Real also houses a series of art collections and historically valuable objects. Among these are the Royal Armory, one of the most important collections of weapons and armor in the world, and the Royal Pharmacy, with a vast collection of ceramic containers and ancient medical instruments. The palace also has a precious collection of musical instruments, including several Stradivarius, which testify to the importance of music in the life of the royal court.The Palacio Real has played a central role in the political and social history of Spain. It was the official residence of the Spanish monarchs until the early 20th century, when Alfonso XIII moved to the Palacio de la Zarzuela. However, the Palacio Real continues to be used for official ceremonies and state events. Its grandeur and splendor make it the ideal venue for official receptions, state banquets, and other important diplomatic occasions.Over the centuries, the palace has witnessed numerous historical events. During the Spanish Civil War, for example, it was occupied by Republican troops and suffered significant damage. After the war, the palace was restored and reopened to the public, becoming one of the main tourist attractions in Madrid. Today, millions of visitors from around the world pass through its rooms, admiring its beauty and history. The Palacio Real is surrounded by beautiful gardens that add a touch of greenery and tranquility to the urban environment. Among these, the Sabatini Gardens, located on the north side of the palace, offer panoramic views and are a perfect place for a relaxing stroll. The Campo del Moro Gardens, on the west side, are equally charming, with their fountains, statues, and shaded pathways.