Palaces Palaces in the Madrid Region

The Royal Palace of Madrid is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and one of Europe’s grandest royal residences. Open to visitors and rich in art, history and ceremonial heritage, it offers a memorable journey through centuries of Spanish monarchy in the heart of Madrid. 

The Royal Palace of Aranjuez, located on the Tagus River valley, is one of the residences of the Spanish Royal Family and an exceptional testament to Spanish history and art. Its origins date back to the Middle Ages, specifically to the former Casa Maestral of the Order of Santiago, used as a recreational residence by the monarchs beginning in the 15th century.

The Palace we know today is the result of a long construction process spanning several centuries and involving numerous architects and artists. Philip II commissioned the initial project to Juan Bautista de Toledo in 1561, who designed a palace around a square courtyard with two side wings, following the model of El Escorial. After Toledo's death, Juan de Herrera continued the work, introducing some modifications and completing the Cuarto Nuevo (New Room), intended for the king's chambers and the chapel.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, the Palace was expanded and transformed. Philip V promoted the construction of the eastern and western wings, while Santiago Bonavía carried out major remodeling work, such as the main staircase and the main façade. Charles III focused on the interior decoration, highlighting the Porcelain Cabinet, a jewel of Spanish Rococo art. Francesco Sabatini was commissioned to design the two wings flanking the Plaza de Armas, as well as the Royal Parade, a space designed for events and performances.

In the 19th century, the Palace underwent further transformations, adapting to the tastes and needs of the time. Modifications were made to the interior decoration, such as King Francis's Arab Cabinet, an example of exoticism and fascination with Eastern culture.

The Royal Palace of Aranjuez is an architectural complex of great historical and artistic value. Elements of different styles, from the Renaissance to Neoclassicism, can be appreciated here, merging into a harmonious and balanced whole. Highlights include its facades, interior courtyard, main staircase, chapel, and numerous halls and rooms decorated with works of art and period furniture.

The Palace also has other tourist attractions, such as its gardens, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Discover one of the former residences of the Spanish royal family: The Royal Palace of El Pardo, a place with a fascinating history and impressive architecture.

The Royal Palace of El Pardo is one of the residences of the Spanish royal family, located in the Royal Site of El Pardo, in Madrid, in the surroundings of Monte de El Pardo.

The palace was built in the 15th century as a hunting lodge for the Spanish monarchy in  a Renaissance style. In the 16th century, it was extended by Philip II, and chose as a winter residence. The palace has been the site of important historical events, such as the coronation of Philip VI in 2014. 

The palace presents a limestone façade and a grand marble staircase and inside it, you can find luxurious furniture, works of art, and decorative objects from the 16th to 19th centuries, including works by Velázquez, Goya, and a library and historical archive that preserves documents of the Spanish royal family.

Adjacent to the Royal Palace of El Pardo is an extensive park, which was designed by Juan de Villanueva. The park is an ideal place to stroll, relax and enjoy nature.

The Linares Palace is one of the most iconic buildings in Madrid. It was built in the 19th century being a masterpiece of Spanish neoclassicism. The palace was designed by the architect Antonio López Aguado and commissioned by the Marquis of Linares, a wealthy Spanish entrepeneur.

It is an imposing building with a two-storey limestone façade, decorated with columns, pilasters and sculptures. Inside the palace, we can find a grand marble staircase, a ballroom, a library and a series of lavishly decorated rooms.

The Linares Palace is a must-see for any lover of culture and history. The Palce also hosts  an extensive collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, tapestries and furniture. Visit the Linares Palace and discover an architectural masterpiece and a fascinating journey into Spanish history and culture. 

Next to the Palacio de Linares we find the Casa de América Park, an extensive park designed by the architect Ricardo Velázquez Bosco. The park is an ideal place to stroll, relax and enjoy nature.