Palacio Real (Royal Palace)

On the site of the current palace once stood a Moorish Alcázar, which served as a royal residence until the 18th century. A devastating fire on Christmas Eve in 1734 completely destroyed this predecessor building, making a new construction essential. In a period of change, with the Bourbons having taken the Spanish crown, the new palace was intended to be a symbol of renewed strength and prestige. Under King Philip V, ambitious construction work began. The architect Juan Bautista Sachetti, a pupil of Juvarra, was commissioned with the design and, together with Francisco de Sabatini, realized a four-winged complex between 1734 and 1764. King Charles III was the first monarch to move into the new premises with his family on December 1, 1764.

The Palacio Real is located in the Spanish capital Madrid, in the district of Madrid, in the region of Madrid. It stands at an elevation of approximately 664 meters above sea level.

Today, the Palacio Real continues to serve as the residence of the Spanish royal family, although the royal family uses the more modest Zarzuela Palace for private purposes. The magnificent state rooms of the Palacio Real are used for representative occasions and state receptions. Parts of the palace are accessible to the public and are among Madrid's most significant attractions. Visitors can admire the impressive architecture and rich furnishings here.

• Catedral de Santa María La Real de La Almudena (sacred building), 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. 12.5 km away