House of kings
Madrid's Royal Palace was built in the 18th century, by order of Philip V, on the site of the old Alcázar fortress, a former Moorish castle. Sachetti began the works in 1738, and the building was completed in 1764. Sabatini designed the southeast wing and the great staircase, or staircase of honour. It has a square floor plan with a large Central courtyard. The Puerta del Príncipe doorway on the east side gives access to the central courtyard. The Sabatini and Campo del Moro Gardens are among the Palace’s other attractions, as well as its several different façades. There some debate as to its artistic style; it is thought by some experts to belong More to the Baroque, and by others to the Neo-classical style. Of particular note among its numerous rooms are the Royal Guards' Room, the Columns Room, the Hall of Mirrors and King Charles III’s room, amongst others. It also contains paintings by Velázquez, Goya, Rubens, El Greco and Caravaggio.
Practical info:
Construction: Palace
Origin: 18th century
Artistic period: Neo-classical
Historic period: 18th century
Setting: La Almudena Cathedral, Madrid Town Hall, Plaza Mayor Square, San Miguel Market, Los Austrias district.
Prices:
General: €10
Reduced: €5
Children 5-16 years, over 65s, students.
Admission free
Children under 5; and on Wednesday and Thursday afternoon (European Union citizens), and 18 May.
ICOM members and associations: Admission free
Disabled persons: Admission free
Useful information:
From Apr 01 to Sep 30
From Monday to Sunday
Does not close at midday
From 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
From Oct 01 to Mar 31
From Monday to Sunday
Does not close at midday
From 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Closed: 1 and 6 January, 1 and 15 May, 12 October, 9 November and 24, 25 and 31 December.
