Palacio Real (Sights & Attractions in Madrid in general)

Member Name: BeckyBee

Product:	Sights & Attractions in Madrid in general
Date:	11/08/01 (114 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Beautiful, Gift shop, Free on wednesday

Disadvantages: none

If you long to visit the “Great Estates” of Britain, are curious about the Spanish monarchy’s history or simply wish to spend a enjoyable few hours away from the glare of the sun and be able to lay claim to a cultural excursion, then the Palacio Real is for you.

The palace, once home to Spain’s royal family although now used only for ceremonies of state and official business, is situated to the west of the centre approximately 10 to 15 minutes walk from the Plaza Mayor. It sits next to the Cathedral overlooking the city and out to the mountains that surround Madrid, and so here a pleasant breeze can be enjoyed.

From the outside it looks grand and regal, but once inside the exterior pales in comparison; along the set itinerary of the official rooms you encounter great expanses of indulgence and luxury, all in an immaculate state of upkeep. Although the public may only see approximately 20 of the 2000+ rooms that the palace contains this is plenty, as admittedly only the avid historian or monarchist could manage to digest any more.

The palace provides great photo opportunities, a relaxing square and formal gardens, a somewhat tidier area of wider streets full of cafes and restaurants (as some of Madrid has that ‘in need of a lick of paint’ feeling which is prevalent across the Mediterranean countries).

On Wednesdays EU citizens can take advantage of free entry if passports are shown, and I would strongly advise you to buy a guidebook before you begin to look around if you do not follow one of the tours, (given in English and very frequent) as the free leaflet contains minimal information and the boards around the palace are largely concerned with the designers and architects which may not be of the greatest interest.

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