Royal Palace of Madrid
Ideal: Ideal for palace visits, history, architecture, and classic Madrid routes.
With 3,400 rooms and 135,000 square metres it is the largest working royal palace in Western Europe. The old Alcázar burned on Christmas Eve 1734 and was replaced from 1738 to 1755 built entirely in stone; wooden beams were avoided so it would not burn again. The royal family does not live here but at Zarzuela, and the palace is used only for official ceremonies. Its collection includes the Palatinos, the only complete Stradivarius string ensemble still held together in the world.
Quick facts
- Built
- 1735
- Architect
- Filippo Juvarra
- Commissioned by
- Philip V of Spain
- Architectural style
- baroque architecture
- Area
- 135,000 m²
- Heritage status
- bien de interés cultural
Facts from Wikidata, photos from Wikimedia Commons.
Did you know?
How big is the Royal Palace in Madrid?
At around 135,000 m² and more than 3,400 rooms it is the largest functioning royal palace in Western Europe. The king does not live there; it is used for state ceremonies and official receptions.
Why is the palace built almost entirely of stone?
The old Alcázar on the site burned down in 1734, so timber was deliberately minimised in the replacement. It was built with stone and brick vaulting — reducing fire risk was an explicit design decision.
What unique collection does the palace hold?
The world's only known complete Stradivarius string quintet. The palace also holds one of Europe's richest historic armouries and a preserved royal pharmacy.
Why go?
- To see one of Spain's most important royal buildings
- To experience palace halls, courtyards, and official atmosphere
- To add a strong cultural stop to a central Madrid walking route
Travel tip
Plan the palace visit on the same route as Almudena Cathedral and Plaza de Oriente.
