Royal Palace (Palacio Real), Madrid
Royal Palace (Palacio Real) - Madrid Sightseeing Tours, Activities & Tickets | TripTard.Com
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The History of the Royal Palace
The Royal Palace in Madrid is one of the most iconic buildings in the city. It is located on the west side of the Plaza de la Cibeles, next to the University of Madrid. The palace was built by Philip II between 1578 and 1584 as a home for himself and his future queen, Elizabeth of Portugal.
The palace has been the main residence of the Spanish monarchy since 1687. It has been used for a variety of official occasions, including coronations, state dinners, and investitures. Today, it is open to the public for tours and activities.
The Types of Tours Available at the Royal Palace
There are a number of different types of tours available at the Royal Palace in Madrid, from guided tours to self-guided tours.
Guided Tours: These are the most popular type of tour and typically last around two hours. They offer a detailed overview of the palace and its history, as well as opportunities to see some of the more iconic rooms.
Self-Guided Tours: If you’d like to explore the palace on your own, self-guided tours are a good option. These tours can be shorter or longer, depending on your preference. They usually include information on specific areas of interest, but you’re free to explore at your own pace.
Activity Tours: If you want to combine a tour with some fun activities, activity tours are perfect for you. These tours often include a variety of tasks, such as visiting the royal gardens or taking part in a history lesson.
The Royal Palace Gardens
The Royal Palace Gardens are a beautiful oasis in the middle of Madrid. The gardens are home to several attractions, including a zoo, a theater, and a botanical garden. The palace itself is worth visiting for its architecture and history. There are several Royal Palace tours available, as well as a variety of activities, including visits to the royal quarters and gardens, concerts, and art exhibitions.
The Museums at the Royal Palace
The Royal Palace in Madrid is home to many of the art treasures that were once owned by the royal family. Among these are works by El Greco, Diego Velázquez, and Francisco Goya. The palace also contains collections of armor, tapestries, furniture, and paintings.
For visitors interested in learning more about Spanish history, the palace offers guided tours that take you through different parts of the building. These include a tour of the Royal Apartments, where you can see some of the most iconic pieces of Spanish art; the Chapel of Santa Ana; and the Royal Library. There are also various activities available on site such as guided tours of the gardens or a visit to the Royal Mint.
Activities Available at the Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is a fascinating place to visit and explore. There are plenty of activities available for visitors to enjoy, including guided tours, museum visits, and art exhibitions. Some of the most popular activities include:
- Guided Tours: The palace offers a variety of guided tours, covering different parts of the building and its history. Options include traditional tours in Spanish or English, as well as special themed tours.
- Museum Visits: The palace has a number of museums connected to its history. These include the Museo del Prado, which features paintings from the Spanish Renaissance period, and the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, which houses a collection of European porcelain.
- Art Exhibitions: The palace regularly hosts art exhibitions that can be visited by visitors free of charge. These exhibitions often feature works by famous Spanish artists such as El Greco and Francisco Goya.