Royal Palace of Madrid

Madrid, Spain, Spain

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Royal Palace of Madrid crowns the western edge of the city center in Madrid, Spain, as Western Europe's largest royal residence spanning 135,000 square meters with 3,418 rooms, constructed from 1738 to 1764 after a 1734 fire destroyed the original 9th-century Moorish alcázar fortress that evolved into a Castilian royal seat under monarchs like Henry III and Philip II.

Designed initially by Italian Filippo Juvarra then completed by Juan Bautista Sachetti and Francesco Sabatini in late Baroque transitioning to neoclassical style, its rhythmic granite facade features pilasters, colossal columns, grand balconies, and a square plan around a central courtyard accessed via the ornate Puerta del Príncipe.

Lavishly decorated with frescoes by Giaquinto, Tiepolo frescoes in the Throne Room, Gasparini Hall's stuccowork, an armory, royal pharmacy, and Sabatini Gardens, it serves ceremonial functions for Spain's monarchy while opening daily to visitors showcasing opulent Bourbon heritage.