The Royal Palace of Madrid, a place of exclusiveness

A couple months ago I had the incredible opportunity to visit the Madrid Royal Palace as part of a trip to search for valuable attractions. The Royal Palace is a place I had long dreamed of exploring. Situated in the heart of Madrid, it was easy to find. A short metro ride to Opera station and a brief walk brought me to the legendary Plaza de Oriente, where it proudly stands. The fresh morning air combined with the excitement happening in the plaza was contagious. Countless tourists and locals loitered about the plaza. The palace, also known locally as Palacio Real de Madrid is the largest royal palace in Europe by floor area with over 3,000 rooms. While no longer the residence of the Spanish royal family but it remains as an active venue for state ceremonies and events.

Walking up I was immediately struck by its sheer size. The walls are a blend of Baroque and Classical architecture.  Commissioned by King Philip V in the 18th century, the palace was built originally on the site of the old Alcázar fortress, which was lost to fire. As I entered, the sight of the grand staircase left me speechless. It was designed by Francesco Sabatini and it was a stunning introduction to the lavishness that was to be found inside. The intricate etchings and statues made me feel as I had just stepped into a different era in time.

The Throne Room could easily be the highlight of my visit. It was impossible not to be impressed by the red velvet walls, gilded furnishings, and the jaw-dropping ceiling frescoes by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. This room was used for official receptions and ceremonies It epitomizes the richness of Spanish royalty. Standing there I imagined the grand events that must have unfolded within these walls. Next, I wandered into the Royal Armory. The area transported me to a time of knights and kings. Huge collection of weaponry and armor, some dating back to the 13th century. It was astonishing! It even includes suits of armor worn by Charles V and Philip II! It showcases the artistry of weaponmakers from Spain’s golden age. It was fascinating to see the craftsmanship and detail in every piece, from swords to shields and imagine their use in Spain’s past. The Royal Chapel was a peaceful and overwhelming space. An elegant altar and beautiful paintings by Giaquinto and Mengs created an atmosphere of sacred solemness. The chapel’s golden details and ornate decor reflect the deep connection between Spain’s monarchy and the Catholic Church. I took a moment to sit and soak in the beauty of this sacred place. But no place for the royalty would be complete without a living quarter. While walking through the Royal Apartments I felt like I was stepping into the private lives of the Spanish monarchs. Each room had a distinct theme, all adorned with luxurious drapery, furniture and exquisite artworks. The Gasparini Room, with its intricate floral patterns and silk-lined walls, stood out as a personal favorite. It was easy to picture the royal family going about their daily lives, surrounded by treasures from across Europe and beyond.

After fantasizing about what it was like to be a member of the royal family, I headed outside to the Sabatini Gardens. The neatly manicured hedges, fountains, and statues provided a sweet escape. Originally designed in the 20th century, these gardens pay homage to the palace’s architectural elegance. I wandered the pathways, taking in the beautiful views of the palace and the surrounding cityscape. The Campo del Moro park nearby offered a more expansive and tranquil setting, perfect for an afternoon stroll. This park, created in the 19th century, feels like a hidden oasis in Madrid.
As I sat on a bench in the gardens, I couldn’t help but reflect on my day. The Madrid Royal Palace had exceeded all of my expectations. It was worth the wait let me tell you! From the stunning architecture to the fascinating history and peaceful gardens, it all filled my day with wonder and discovery. Learning that the palace is still used for state events made me appreciate its living history even more. I could not help it but I left with a deeper appreciation for Spain’s royal heritage and a sense of gratitude for the beauty and history than I had experienced previously. It was truly a day to remember for a lifetime...