Spain 101 : El Palacio Real De Madrid

Madrid is known for the Palacio Real, which means Royal Palace, not only because of the monuments, sculptures, and gardens that encompass it but also for its elegant design. The Palace took 25 years to be built, and until 1931, the Palace was occupied by a line of Spanish rulers, who used it as the center of a powerful dynasty that controlled half of the world – or what was known of it during the 18th century.

Even though less than 10% of the palace is open to the public, there is still far more than you could see in a single day. It’s made up of nearly three thousand rooms, 240 balconies and over forty staircases, and lavish and lush furniture, decorations, ornaments and other objects can be seen everywhere.

You can see the Throne Room, which once operated as the war room for the world’s primary superpower, and also the Royal Armory, which features a large quantity of armor and weaponry in addition to implements of torture left over from the Spanish Inquisition.

The tour also takes in the famed Royal Library, where various first editions of significant Spanish literature are held, the Royal Pharmacy, where you’ll gain an insight into past medical practices, and a magnificent banquet hall, at which some of the most famous European rulers ever have dined.

Additional adventures at Palacio Real include viewing the changing of the guards, strolling through the Royal Gardens, named the best in Madrid, and take in the view of the Manzanares River.

A guided tour of Palacio Real can take up to two hours, and it’s a great way to learn the history of the Royal family as well as get to see how and where they lived. A tour costs only $30, but you should register in advance as they sell out quickly – especially during the summertime. Photography is prohibited, but you do have the option of purchasing picture books and postcards when the tour is over, so you can remember what you saw inside.

Find Out More : Spanish Phrases