About this place
The Palacio Real is one of the great palaces of Europe, built for the Bourbon kings after the medieval fortress that stood here, the old Alcázar, burned to the ground on Christmas Eve in 1734. King Philip the Fifth ordered a new residence in gleaming stone, grander than any wooden structure could ever be, and the result is a vast Baroque and Classical pile with a reputed 3,418 rooms, making it the largest royal palace in Western Europe by floor area. Though the royal family no longer lives here, preferring a more modest residence outside the city, the palace remains the official seat of the Crown and is used for state ceremonies. Visitors can tour the lavish throne room, the porcelain room, the royal armoury and the grand staircase, all dripping with frescoes, chandeliers, tapestries and gilt.
Key facts
- 1734 year — The old Alcázar fortress burned down on Christmas Eve, clearing the way for the new palace
- 3418 rooms — Make this the largest royal palace in Western Europe by floor area
- 135000 sq metres — The approximate floor area of the enormous palace complex
📍 Plaza de la Armería, 28013, Madrid