Travel Guide - Around Madrid

Palacio Real (The Royal Palace)

The construction of this splendid palace with its baroque style facades, was directed by architect Ventura Rodriguez and lasted from 1737 to1764. It was begun after the old Alcazar of the Hapsburgs was destroyed in a fire on Christmas in 1734.

Nowadays the Royal Family doesn’t live in this Palace anymore and uses it only for ceremonial purposes. The exquisite throne room is the setting for most state occasions hosted here in Spain. When not being used for official events, the Palace with its 3000 rooms is open to the public, who will enjoy the artwork and armor and weaponry collection that date back to the 13th century.

The Palace grounds are also magnificent.

While learning Spanish at a Spanish Language Course in Madrid you'll have the chance to pay this imposing palace a visit.