The construction of the Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Madrid is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family. Today the palace is used exclusively for receptions, ceremonies and official events as the kings of Spain residing in the Zarzuela Palace. The Royal Palace also called Palacio de Oriente.

The construction of the Royal Palace began in 1738 and works lasted for seventeen years. Shortly after its completion, in 1764, Carlos III established his habitual residence. The location of the palace was the same as that occupied the Hapsburgs Palace, destroyed by fire on Christmas Eve 1734.

The East Palace is surrounded by the gardens of Campo del Moro and the Sabatini Gardens. The first, west, dating from the Middle Ages; the latter were created in the twentieth century and in the north. Campo del Moro can be visited during the day.
Change of Guard
The changing of the guard from the Royal Palace of Madrid is held every Wednesday from October to July at 11am. It can be canceled by official acts or adverse weather conditions.

Visit the Royal Palace
The Royal Palace offers both free and guided tours throughout the year, closing only for official acts.

The typical visit includes entry to:

Official Meetings: Grandiose, well kept and stylish, each room has its own personality. The throne room left us impressed.
Royal Armouries: Armor, shields and weapons of all kinds are one of the most important collections in the world.
Real Pharmacy: Hundreds of boats of various shapes and sizes that will make us go back in time. The best, the recreation of the laboratory.