Catedral de Santa María La Real de La Almudena

As early as the 16th century, initial considerations were made for the construction of a new church dedicated to Madrid's patron saint, Saint Mary of Almudena. However, actual construction did not begin until the 18th century. The completion of the cathedral spanned a long period, finally concluding in 1993. In that year, Pope John Paul II consecrated the edifice and elevated it to cathedral status. Originally conceived in the Neo-Gothic style, the construction was ultimately finished in Neoclassicism to create a harmonious connection with the adjacent Royal Palace. In 2004, the cathedral was the setting for the first royal wedding when Crown Prince Felipe and Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano married there. A planned bomb attack in 2013 was fortunately prevented.

The cathedral is located in Madrid, in the province and region of Madrid, Spain. Its elevation of approximately 652 meters above sea level makes it a prominent landmark in the cityscape.

Visitors can explore the cathedral today. Its interior surprises with a modern “Pop-Art” decor, designed by Kiko Argüello, which creates a strong contrast to its exterior appearance. The cathedral is laid out in the form of a Latin cross and houses numerous chapels, including the Chapel of the Virgen de la Almudena, dedicated to Madrid's patron saint. The apse windows, completed in 2004, contribute to the special atmosphere. An organ by Gerhard Grenzing from 1999 with 70 stops is also part of the furnishings.

• Palacio Real (Royal Palace) (Castle), approx. 0.3 km away
• Palacio del Buen Retiro (Residence), approx. 2.8 km away
• Palacio Cristal (Residence), approx. 2.8 km away
• Palacio Real de El Pardo (Castle), approx. 12.8 km away