A fortress first
The palace stands where Muhammad I, Emir of Córdoba, built a fortress in the 9th century. It grew into the Royal Alcázar, the kings' residence, until it burned down on Christmas Eve 1734.
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Royal Palace: built on the ashes of a fortress
After the old Alcázar burned on Christmas Eve 1734, Spain's Bourbon kings built a new palace on the same spot. With 3,418 rooms, it's the largest royal palace in Europe by floor area.
Built1738–1755
Rooms3,418
Floor area135,000 m²
TodayState ceremonies
Hear the Royal Palace of Madrid story, in the app's voice
A short preview. The full story plays on its own when you walk up to it with Urban Tales.
Three stories most visitors miss
1
2
Stone that can't burn
The new palace was built almost entirely of stone, with very little wood. Work ran from 1738 to 1755, and Charles III was the first king to live in it.
3
Five Stradivarius
Its collections include the Royal Armoury and the only complete Stradivarius string quintet in the world, decorated instruments made for the Spanish court.
TipArrive at opening time or book online to skip the queue, and look out for the changing of the guard in the Plaza de la Armería. With Urban Tales running, the palace's story plays as you reach the square.
Nearby landmarks
Royal Palace of Madrid: common questions
Does the King of Spain live in the Royal Palace?
No. It's the official residence, but the royal family lives at the Zarzuela Palace outside the centre. The Royal Palace is used for state ceremonies.
How many rooms does the Royal Palace of Madrid have?
3,418, across about 135,000 square metres, which makes it the largest royal palace in Europe by floor area.
What was there before the Royal Palace?
A 9th-century Muslim fortress that became the Royal Alcázar. It burned down on Christmas Eve 1734.