The Palacio Real (Royal Palace) located in Madrid is known for its astounding classical architecture, and for the wondrous statues, monuments, and lavish gardens that adorn the area. The palace, which was built in 25 years, was utilized by an extensive list of Spanish rulers until 1931, and at one time it was the core of sovereignty for an empire in the eighteenth century that governed half of the then-known world.
While the public has access to only 10% of Palacio Real, that small percentage is impossible to see in a single day. Palacio Real is composed of almost 3000 rooms, over 40 staircases and 240 balconies, as well as extravagant decorations, furniture and other objects that line every space.
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.
Tours also pass through the famous Royal Library, which houses many first editions of important Spanish writings, and the Royal Pharmacy, which has an interesting view into old medical practices, and also the amazing banquet hall, where much notable European royalty has dined.
Other highlights include witnessing the changing of the guards, walking around the Royal Gardens, which are the best in Madrid, and enjoying the view of the Manzanares River.
To see all the sights and take in all the history of Palacio Real, a two-hour guided tour is the way to go. The tours are fairly inexpensive at around $30 dollars person. You would be wise to make a reservation to take the tour since tickets sell out fast, especially during the summer season. If you want to remember what you have witnessed at the palace you will be allowed to purchase postcards and picture albums there, since you will not be permitted to take photographs.
While the public has access to only 10% of Palacio Real, that small percentage is impossible to see in a single day. Palacio Real is composed of almost 3000 rooms, over 40 staircases and 240 balconies, as well as extravagant decorations, furniture and other objects that line every space.
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.
Tours also pass through the famous Royal Library, which houses many first editions of important Spanish writings, and the Royal Pharmacy, which has an interesting view into old medical practices, and also the amazing banquet hall, where much notable European royalty has dined.
Other highlights include witnessing the changing of the guards, walking around the Royal Gardens, which are the best in Madrid, and enjoying the view of the Manzanares River.
To see all the sights and take in all the history of Palacio Real, a two-hour guided tour is the way to go. The tours are fairly inexpensive at around $30 dollars person. You would be wise to make a reservation to take the tour since tickets sell out fast, especially during the summer season. If you want to remember what you have witnessed at the palace you will be allowed to purchase postcards and picture albums there, since you will not be permitted to take photographs.
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